
Learn about roles and career paths in mental health, with speakers from St Patrick's Mental Health Services sharing their experience with students.
Putting the focus on mental health careers
Over 100 students, parents and teachers joined our 'Exploring Mental Health Careers' event on 20 January 2021 to learn more about roles and career pathways in the area of mental healthcare.
Practitioners and experts who work actively in a range of disciplines in St Patrick's Mental Health Services (SPMHS) took part in the event to explain the work they do and give insight into the various ways to enter their different fields.
Topics covered included:
- Psychiatry with Professor Paul Fearon, Medical Director at SPMHS
- Psychology with Niamh Willis, Psychologist in Clinical Training.
- Nursing with Grace Adams, Nurse
- Occupational Therapy with Grace Tutty, Occupational Therapist
- Social Work with Elaine Donnelly, Social Work Team Lead
- Pharmacy with Grainne McElligott, Pharmacist.
Each of the speakers spoke about their college choices and study experiences, how they transitioned into their current roles, what a typical working day looks like for them, and what it is about working in mental health that is important to them.
Key themes from the talk were that, while each role has its challenges, they all offer diversity and are highly rewarding when the difference made in people's lives can be felt. Another common thread was that many of the speakers came into their current roles through different paths and experiences, with some not having set out to work in mental health specifically, which they hoped was a message of reassurance for students who are anxious or unsure their future choices.
You can watch the recording of the talk below now. If you would like more information about the mental health conditions that people working in mental healthcare help to treat, visit our About Mental Health section.