Description
Career in Psychology Write a 7-9 page paper in which you further define your vision, analyze the requirements needed for achieving your vision, and create an action plan to achieve your goals.
Complete the following in the YOUR CARRER IN PSYCHOLOGY template (attached):
(I am attaching a example project.)
Application of Vision.
Update an inspiring description of your future career vision as a psychology practitioner-scholar.
Explain the benefits of becoming a practitioner-scholar in the field of psychology and explain the importance and relevance of your vision and goals to your personal and professional aspirations.
Goals.
Discuss personally meaningful and relevant educational, career, and life goals to achieve your vision.
Further discuss three specific goals that are measurable and achievable and include timed steps to leverage current competencies and overcome skill gaps and potential barriers.
Influence of Research and Resources.
Explain how reading the course resources, journal articles, and Career Center resources has affected your vision.
Discuss why it is important to look for evidence-based literature to support your studies, including the types of articles you may need to find beyond peer-reviewed articles, to support your work in the field.
Value of Networking and the Professional Interview.
Discuss how developing and maintaining supportive professional relationships will contribute to your overall academic and career success.
Include information on what you learned from conducting a professional interview.
Specialization-Specific Professional Competencies.
Describe the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for success in your career path.
Include common skills critical to success within psychology, such as those related to critical thinking, decision making, problem solving, evidence-based practices, cultural competence, and conflict resolution.
Include ethical competencies related to your specific profession.
Include any key responsibilities associated with positions related to your future career.
Critical Thinking.
Reflect on the importance of critical thinking and analyze the importance of critical thinking and effective decision making as a psychologist, with reference to real or hypothetical examples.
Cultural Competence.
Discuss methods and techniques you will use now and throughout your program to establish cultural competence as it relates to your specialization and the future population you would like to work with.
Ethical Competencies.
Discuss the ethical competencies related to your profession. Analyze the functions, responsibilities, and ethics required of a professional practitioner in a specialized area of psychology, integrating comprehensive knowledge of relevant professional standards and requirements.
Specialization-Specific Professional Requirements.
Outline the requirements for your future career including high-level Capella program and specialization requirements, credentialing, certification, licensure, accreditation practices and standards, additional training, et cetera.
Action Plan.
Create and discuss a detailed action plan to achieve career goals that includes all the required elements including the start-to-end duration of the goal or milestone, the goal or milestone being addressed, and the skill and experience gains from this goal or milestone.
Conclusion.
Explain the benefits of becoming a practitioner-scholar in the field of psychology and explain the importance and relevance of your vision and goals to your personal and professional aspirations. Summarize the entire paper from the abstract to the action plan.
Unformatted Attachment Preview
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My Career As a Clinical Research Psychologist for LGBTQ+ PoC
Learner’s Name
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Capella University
PSY5002: Foundations of Theory and Practice for Master’s Psychology Learners
Instructor
September 1, 2023
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Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people of color (LGBTQ+ PoC) experience
multiple stressors, microaggressions, and other trauma throughout their lives because of their
sexual orientation and race, which makes them more vulnerable to mental health issues.
LGBTQ+ PoC face several barriers to accessing mental health care and treatment, one of which
is the lack of culturally competent professionals who understand their unique experiences and
struggles. My vision is to become a clinical research psychologist working with LGBTQ+ PoC
clients. Through my studies and research, I want to contribute to building a society where sexual
minorities of all backgrounds have equity in accessing mental health care. To achieve this vision,
I have decided to pursue my master’s and PhD in clinical psychology (with specializations
focusing on LGBTQ+ PoC counseling). In this paper, I outline existing research on LGBTQ+
PoC that influenced my vision and describe the professional and ethical competencies involved
in my future career as a clinical research psychologist. I also present an action plan designed to
turn my aspiration to a reality. The plan contains specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and
timed (SMART) steps to help me identify my existing competencies that can be leveraged and
the areas of development.
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My Career As a Clinical Research Psychologist for LGBTQ+ PoC
The mental health field in the United States consists of predominantly White
practitioners. According to the U.S Census Bureau, in 2015, 86% of the psychologists in the
workforce were White (Lin et al., 2018). Differences between the mental health professional and
the client get starker when the client happens to belong to a sexual minority in addition to being a
person of color (PoC). There is a strong need for practitioners with the skills and knowledge for a
culturally competent practice with the LGBTQ+ population (Rowe et al., 2017). Recognizing
this gap, I aim to be a clinical research psychologist working with LGBTQ+ PoC population. In
this paper, I describe the competencies I will need to gain and how I can implement my action
plan to fulfil my professional vision.
Application of Vision
LGBTQ+ people are highly vulnerable to mental health issues when compared to
heterosexual individuals (Moagi et al., 2021). The risk of vulnerability increases when the person
is also a PoC as they experience burdens at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities
(Mayers, 2021). The stigma experienced by LGBTQ+ PoC is unique and intersectional. The
combination of racism, heterosexism, and cissexism they experience has adverse effects on
physical and mental health. The external and internalized stigma can be linked to mental health
issues like depression, anxiety and stress (Datta et al., 2017).
LGBTQ+ PoC experience barriers when seeking mental health services. One of the major
barriers is the lack of professionals who are trained to understand the unique needs and
experiences of this population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by the year 2050, nonWhite racial and ethnic groups will represent more than 56% of the U.S. population and studies
conducted by the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Center for Workforce Studies
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suggest most psychologists infrequently provide their services to racially diverse clients
(Calkins, 2020).
Race and sexual orientation are complex as both identifiers are unique to each person.
The complexity of identifying with both racial and sexual minorities affects the therapeutic
relationship between practitioners and clients (Ubl, 2018). LGBTQ+ PoC face unique stressors
such as their sexual orientation being ignored, mental health professionals not taking
racial/sexual identity concerns seriously, and other forms of discrimination in the therapeutic
setting (Ubl, 2018).
Having grown up in an immigrant household while seeing the struggles of my gay
brother, I had immediate exposure to some of the mental health struggles an LGBTQ+ PoC may
face. I aspire to live in a world where LGBTQ+ PoC have access to non-judgmental and
culturally responsive mental health counseling. My long-term goal is to become a clinical
research psychologist collaborating with organizations that offer assessment and counseling
services to LGBTQ+ PoC. My short-term goals are guided by the practitioner-scholar model,
which entails that I learn the established practices used to treat the people belonging to this
group. I also aim conduct research and develop tools for therapists working with LGBTQ+ PoC.
I plan on gaining foundational knowledge and awareness needed during my master’s and
doctorate schooling. Eventually I hope to work under an experienced psychologist advocating
and conducting research for LGBTQ+ PoC counseling with special focus on the multicultural
aspects.
Goals
To achieve my vision, I have set three personally meaningful, relevant educational and
career goals. These have been decided on the principle of SMART goals. The goals are specific,
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measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-based. They are measurable and actionable with
enough specifics to keep me on track and help me achieve my vision of being a clinical research
psychologist. First, I plan to earn my master’s degree in psychology in 3 years. Then, I will
pursue my PhD in clinical psychology (specializing in LGBTQ+ counseling) in 4 years after my
master’s degree. After completing my PhD, I will gain field experience for 2 years by working
under an experienced psychotherapist advocating and conducting research for LGBTQ+ PoC
counseling.
Influence of Research and Resources
Reading course resources, journal articles, and Career Center resources contributed to my
vision in important ways. These resources helped me recognize that while there have been
significant efforts to address the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ PoC, the disparities in medical
and mental health services persist. Because this topic is meaningful to me, I utilized the library to
find journal articles, books, and other research to help me better understand the effects of racism,
homophobia, transphobia, and other risk factors that impact the mental health services accessed
by LGBTQ+ PoC individuals. Capella’s Career Center helped me understand the skills I will
need to meet my goals. I found the Career Center’s resources on networking, finding suitable
mentors, and job and internship opportunities immensely useful. The interviews of professional
counselors who have succeeded in the field were inspiring.
Reviewing the resources available in the Capella Library helped me develop the ability to
access, summarize, and apply information to the clinical problems I may encounter during my
educational or professional life. By understanding the recommendations provided in evidencebased literature I seek to increase my awareness, knowledge, and skills in psychological practice
with LGBTQ+ PoC. Literature I reviewed include peer-reviewed research papers that address the
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challenges faced by LGBTQ+ PoC in accessing mental health care. I also reviewed articles and
reports by government agencies and nonprofits working for the welfare of LGBTQ+ PoC
population.
A specific resource that affected my vision was a peer-reviewed research paper by
Salerno et al. (2023), that found various racist microaggressions and all LGBTQ-related stressors
had a significant impact on psychological distress in young people. These included factors such
as family rejection, radicalized heterosexism, internalized homophobia, and identity
concealment. This study highlighted the impact of discrimination on the mental health of
LGBTQ+ PoC youth and inspired me to dedicate my career to developing treatments, practices,
and programs to address mental health needs among sexual minorities of different cultures.
In addition to peer-reviewed journals and articles, I will also refer to resources like blogs,
videos, written personal accounts, press clippings from credible individuals, and organizations
that celebrate LGBTQ+ PoC history, politics, and culture. A key source I discovered in my
review was the APA Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Sexual Minority Persons (APA
Task Force on Psychological Practice with Sexual Minority Persons, 2021). The guidelines not
only recognize the impact of heterosexism on LGBTQ+ individuals but also acknowledge the
impact of additional systems of oppression such as institutional racism and colonialism. Each
practice guideline has a rationale section and an application section that provide
recommendations for psychologists or psychologists in training who are seeking to expand their
knowledge of practice with LGBTQ+ population.
Value of Networking and the Professional Interview
Maintaining a supportive and professional relationship with fellow psychologists will aid
me in career development, knowledge sharing, and building relationships that are mutually
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beneficial. I plan to network on two fronts: intra-organizational and inter-organizational. Intraorganizational networks will involve building working relationships with people within my
college or workplace, such as my professors, fellow students, and colleagues. This will help me
develop occupational knowledge and competencies. To build relationships outside of my
workplace, I will stay updated on the trends of the industry by attending symposiums and
conferences. This will give me the opportunity to connect with others with common interests and
develop mutually beneficial relationships (APA, 2017). Attending the ones centered around
LGBTQ+ PoC and related fields will help me interact with other professionals and see the work
of eminent scholars who have contributed significantly to the field of LGBTQ+ PoC research. I
will also seek memberships with associations that are working for the LGBTQ+ community,
such as the Division 44 of the APA (Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and
Gender Diversity, 2023). Such inter-organizational networking will keep me updated on the
current research available and identify the gaps between the LGBTQ+ PoC research and the
realities of the communities they live in.
Interviewing Dr. Jane Harris, PsyD, from the University of Michigan was an enlightening
experience. She serves as a subject matter expert on LGBTQ and PoC issues in many national
and international civil rights organizations. Through the interview, I gained an understanding of
the nature of work, the competencies, requirements, and qualifications that are needed to become
a clinical research psychologist for LGBTQ+ PoC. According to Dr Harris, the most important
quality a psychologist working with minorities needs to possess is cultural competence. It is very
important to create a safe space for your clients and demonstrate affirming care for them.
Awareness of heteronormativity, intention to be inclusive and openness to diversity are crucial,
as is awareness of the issues impacting the community. Most of the LGBTQ+ PoC display
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dissatisfaction with mental health services as they experience microaggressions from service
providers who lack cultural competence. This helped me understand that I will need to integrate
cultural competence into every aspect of my training throughout my studies and professional life.
Dr. Harris explained that self-reflection, learning about different cultures, and interacting with
diverse groups (both in professional as well as social settings) will help me achieve this.
Specialization-Specific Professional Competencies
The professional competencies required for a clinical research psychologist are based on
their knowledge, skills, and behaviors. Psychologists in this specialization should be able to
gather information and select the right course of action among alternatives. Whether it is in
research, hypothesis generation, or client interaction, the ability to make the make effective and
efficient decisions is crucial. They should also follow evidence-based practices to improve
delivery of mental health care and strengthen outcomes. Incorporation of clinical expertise and
client characteristics with established evidence to enable beneficial health decisions forms the
core of evidence-based practices (Busch & McCarthy, 2022). Conflict resolution is a skill that
can help psychologists gain trust and collaborate with people in situations where trust is absent
(Getha-Taylor et al., 2019). Finally, as clinical research psychologists are often sought to help
assess and resolve difficult situations, conflict resolution becomes crucial.
Critical Thinking
Psychologists need to use their critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate information
to form a sound judgement when it comes to treatment or research. Critical thinking is a crucial
element of evidence-based practices (Burell et al., 2022). A psychologist needs to be openminded, curious while also possessing an element of skepticism. For example, while conducting
research on any topic, there will be studies that support my hypothesis. As a psychologist, I will
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need to use critical thinking skills to judge the quality of the study based on the evidence
available. I will consider the sample size, the qualifications and credibility of the researchers, and
whether there are other studies that replicate the same results. Decision-making skills go hand in
hand with critical thinking. After weighing the strengths and limitations of all options available,
psychologists need to arrive at a decision and choose, whether in client treatment plans or
research. They need to enhance their efficacy of clinical decision making, especially when faced
with uncertainty, which is very common in their practice (Magnavita, 2016).
Cultural Competence
Being culturally competent is one of the core critical skills for a psychologist. Many
LGBTQ+ PoC individuals feel dissatisfied with metal health treatments when compared to
heterosexual individuals because of the lack of culturally competent service providers (Bishop et
al., 2021). During my studies and professional life, I will be taking some steps to ensure that my
practice is diverse, multicultural, and inclusive of people of all backgrounds (Rock et al., 2010).
Firstly, I will self-reflect and acknowledge that I have a cultural lens. I will recognize the
stereotypes and biases that may be influencing my viewpoint because of my upbringing and
values. I will also research the issues of the community by accessing LGBTQ+ PoC affirmative
trainings and other resources available for clinical practice. Attending diversity summits and
conferences where LGBTQ+ issues are being discussed will also help me broaden my
understanding. When I do set up my own practice, I will ensure that I create an affirmative
setting that provides LGBTQ+ PoC friendly reading material, literature, and resources. It is also
important for psychologists to work with community leaders to bring a change on a larger scale.
I will reach out to relevant individuals with political influence in whatever small way I can to
improve access to mental health care for the community.
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Ethical Competencies
Psychologists need to be able to recognize ethical situations and have the competence to
analyze and resolve them. According to the APA (2017a), ethical principles guide professionals
toward the highest ideals of psychology and provide specific standards for most situations
encountered by psychologists. It is a common set of principles and standards upon which
qualified mental health experts build their professional and scientific work. The ethics code has
ten ethical standards that are strictly enforced, and their violation could result in sanctions. The
standards cover a wide range of issues like privacy, research, human relations, competence,
record keeping, and advertising and public statements. While all standards are important, when
dealing with LGBTQ+ clients the standards of Privacy and Confidentiality, Human Relations
and Competence are crucial.
Protecting the privacy and confidentiality of clients is an important ethical practice
especially when dealing with LGBTQ+ PoC who have faced discrimination and may have had to
conceal their identities. The ethical standard of Human Relations guides a psychologist on how
to build a trusting relationship with their clients by avoiding discrimination, biases, and other
practices that may harm the client. Competence is another standard that every psychologist needs
to follow. It is impossible for a single psychologist to be competent in all areas of the field.
Therefore, they should work within the boundaries of their own competence depending on their
training, experience, and expertise. If they feel the client needs help beyond their areas of
competence, they should refer them to the appropriate specialist (Tien et al., 2012).
Ethically sound mental health care is crucial for LGBTQ+ PoC individuals. The
prevalence of mental health issues in this group makes ethical considerations in evaluations and
treatment even more compelling. Unethical or nonfriendly mental health care can result in early
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termination of the therapeutic journey of the client. A practitioner who can uphold the principles
of ethics like justice, fairness, and equality will be competent to address the shortcomings in their
practice, recognize their internal biases, and improve their expertise in understanding the nuances
of LGBTQ+ health care (Saenz, 2020).
Specialization-Specific Professional Requirements
After the completion of my master’s course from Capella, I will pursue a PsyD in
Clinical Psychology, which will require a total of 135 coursework credits. To gain the necessary
credits, I will need to complete 14 core courses, 2 elective courses, 6 residency courses, 3
practicum courses, 4 internship courses, one dissertation preparation course, and one clinical
dissertation. After this, I plan to gain some field experience by working under an experienced
psychotherapist advocating and conducting research for LGBTQ+ POC counseling.
I plan to practice in the state of Minnesota, where I will need a license administered by
the Minnesota Board of Psychology. The board requires completion of either a PhD or a PsyD
and a 12–30-month pre-graduate internship (I will have completed both before applying for the
license). Other licensing requirements include a minimum of 1 year work experience under the
supervision of a fully licensed psychologist. After this, I will need to pass the Examination for
Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) administered by the Association of State and
Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) and Minnesota’s jurisprudence exam known as the
Professional Responsibility Exam (PRE) (Minnesota Board of Psychology, n.d).
Action Plan
With the knowledge of my vision, goals, and the professional and ethical competencies
required for my chosen field, I have designed the following action plan.
Goal
Milestone
Skills and Experience Gained
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Complete Capella
Master of Science
in Clinical
Psychology in 2
years and gain the
74 credits
required for
completion
Complete Capella
PsyD in clinical
psychology in 4
years and gain at
least 145 quarter
credits for
completion
Completion of
field experience
after my doctoral
degree (2 years)
Complete Core Courses
(24 quarter credits)
Complete Specialization
Courses (40 quarter
credits)
Elective Courses 10
quarter credits
Complete the two 5-day
residency requirements for
completion of my master’s
degree
Complete Core and
elective courses with
dissertation
PsyD Clinical Training or
Predoctoral Internship
Work under a
psychotherapist
advocating for and
researching LGBTQ+ PoC
counseling
These courses will cover various areas of
psychology like counseling,
psychopathology, tests and measurements,
and survey of research methods, etc.
These will cover clinical interventions,
ethics and multicultural issues,
psychological testing, lifespan development,
etc.
I will opt for two courses: Human Sexuality
and Counseling Skills and Procedures.
These will help improve my knowledge of
LGBTQ+ community.
The residencies will help in training and
practice in the areas of interventions,
assessment, diversity, culture-specific
issues, and ethics.
The courses will help me gain knowledge in
the areas of clinical supervision and
consultation, advanced research methods,
dissertation preparation, evidence-based
practices, ethics, and standards of clinical
psychology.
Skills gained will include application of
knowledge gained through course work and
learning to handle clients.
Skills will include development of cultural
competence, increase in knowledge of
LGBTQ+ PoC issues.
Conclusion
The barriers faced by LGBTQ+ PoC in accessing mental health care could be removed
with collective efforts from the public and policy makers alike. Psychologists play a crucial role
in this vision. As a future clinical research psychologist for the community, it is my
responsibility to study the various health disparities and inequities and do my bit in eliminating
them. My vision is to live in a world where the needs of LGBTQ+ PoC are met by trained
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professionals who are open and willing to understand their experiences. I am confident that the
career path I have laid out for myself will guide me in realizing my vision.
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