Sara Metawa
Greenpoint,NSW
Summary
A dedicated aspiring psychologist with a passion for helping others. I have been fortunate to work with leading practitioners at a prominent psychology practice on the Central Coast. I have held diverse roles, which have helped me to develop a profound understanding of psychological practice, industry challenges and barriers to accessible care. My experience at the clinic has allowed me to directly witness the transformative power of empathy, respect, and compassionate care in mental health practice. I believe that wisdom flourishes when we acknowledge the stories of others with empathy, and denying their experiences limits our capacities for complete gratitude. My ultimate aspiration is to blend my accumulated knowledge, insights, and compassionate approach in private practice with the aim of empowering individuals in navigating their mental health journeys and foster lasting well-being and resilience.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Student Placement
The READ Clinic
07.2021 - 09.2021
- Spearheaded the intake form project: Compiled electronic versions of clinical psychology screeners, including ASRS and DIAMOND, and revised clinic intake tools to enhance efficiency of background information collection and facilitate ongoing monitoring of treatment progress for clinicians within practice, as part of a broader project targeting clinical service improvement.
- Actively engaged in therapy sessions with clinic director and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Nathan Beehag, by observing therapy, participating in discussions and contributing insights.
Intern
The READ Clinic
01.2021 - Current
- Participated in 2 hours of psychologist group supervision monthly over 2 years, gaining insights and exposure to diverse ranges of clinical approaches, presentations and therapeutic modalities.
- Participated in training workshops and seminars hosted by the Clinic (e.g. Child Behaviour Conference, Nov 2022).
- Assisted in psychological assessments by supporting administration and scoring of psychological tests such as WISC-V under supervision of a psychologist.
- Actively participated in therapy sessions by observing esteemed senior clinical and general psychologists (such as The READ Clinic directors Dr Nathan Beehag and Andrew Sozomenou) gaining exposure to:
- A broad range of psychiatric presentations (such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Bipolar Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Adjustment Disorders).
- Gained insights into intricacies of various situational and personal challenges individuals face, including issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and complex family dynamics.
- A variety of therapeutic techniques implemented in clinical psychological practice (CBT, DBT, EMDR).
- Collaborated with psychologists to update client records by preparing comprehensive reports outlining session content, treatment progress, and goals for future sessions.
- Ethical considerations and responsibilities such as recognising and respecting cultural diversity, incorporating culturally sensitive approaches and considering individual differences and values in treatment planning and implementation.
Client Care Team
The READ Clinic
01.2020 - Current
- Coordinating services to ensure streamlined functioning of The READ Clinic across approximately 400 clients weekly, spanning across 30 practitioners
- Provide immediate support during distress calls by offering immediate support and distress intervention in line with clinic procedures and guidance from practice psychologists
- Coordinate GP, NDIS, and third-party insurance care plans to implement continuity of care from healthcare professionals, including clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists, couples’ counsellors, and mental health nurses.
- Intake officer: initial point of contact for clients, facilitating discussions on areas of presentation and defining goals, enabling allocation of suitable practitioners based on their needs for therapy.
- Adherence to Medicare Compliance: Diligently follow and uphold Medicare guidelines and regulations to maintain ethical, legal, and professional conduct. This includes ensuring accurate billing and secure maintenance of confidential patient records that accurately reflect provided services, strictly adhering to privacy laws and regulations, and collaborating effectively with referring physicians while adhering to treatment plans and referral protocols stipulated by Medicare.
- Proficient in the leading practice management software for allied health professionals such as Halaxy and ASEBA psychological assessment software.
- Maintaining Accurate Client Medical Records: Enhanced office efficiency and streamlined operations through automation of client correspondence, record tracking, and data communications.
- Upholding Professional and Ethical Conduct: Consistently committed to the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, exemplified by maintaining strict confidentiality in all client interactions and case management scenarios.
Education
Advanced Graduate Diploma, Psychology - (Fourth Year Equivalent)
Monash University
2023
Bachelor of Psychology -
Macquarie University
2021
Skills
- Crisis Intervention: Proficient in managing distress and providing immediate support during crisis calls
- Clinical Proficiency: Understanding of different psychological presentations that are common across ages and groups
- Mental Health Screening: Skilled in identifying mental health issues and appropriately allocating referral pathways based on therapeutic modalities and cultural/religious considerations
- Cultural Competency: Proficient at integrating clients' cultural and religious backgrounds into therapy recommendations, promoting culturally sensitive care
- Outstanding customer service: Remaining energetic and compassionate towards clients), including active listening and empathy whilst upholding clinic confidentiality
- Referral Pathway Awareness: Knowledgeable about referral pathways for clients who require access to public mental health services, ensuring continuity of care
- Awareness of various psychometric scales, such as: CBRS, ASRS, BRIEF 2, PAI, ABAS-3
- Professional Communication: Demonstrates excellent professionalism in communication and customer service, fostering positive client relationships
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships with mental health professionals, patients, clinic support staff, and other health professionals
- Implementing separated family policies to effectively navigate complex family dynamics, ensuring a balanced and respectful approach to providing care for children and families
- Maintaining highest standards of confidentiality in all client interactions and case management scenarios
- Awareness of industry and barriers to care
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment, including training staff and assistant to over 30 practitioners
- Commitment to supporting the profession over three years at the READ clinic
Accomplishments
Dr Ashley Craig: Professor of Rehabilitation Studies
John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, Kolling Institute
Faculty of Medicine and Health, Northern Sydney (Arabanoo) Precinct
The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, Sydney, NSW, Australia
Corner Reserve Road & First Avenue
Royal North Shore Hospital
St Leonards NSW 2065, Australia 290 521
Ph: 0417 290 521 email: a.craig@sydney.edu.au http://www.rehab.med.usyd.edu.au
Fellow, College of Clinical Psychology, APS
Senior Clinical Psychologist
Address: C2/20-24 Karalta Road, Erina NSW 225
Dr Nathan Beehag: Senior Clinical Psychologist, Director, PhD
MAPS EMDRAA PSY0001683665
Ph: 02 4363 6600 email: support@thereadclinic.com
Address: C2/20-24 Karalta Road, Erina NSW 2250
Kerrin Worthy: Practice Manager
Ph: 02 4363 6600 email: kerrin@thereadclinic.com
Address: C2/20-24 Karalta Road, Erina NSW 225
The READ Clinic: Supporting Everyone - To be their best self
Timeline
Student Placement
The READ Clinic
07.2021 - 09.2021
Intern
The READ Clinic
01.2021 - Current
Client Care Team
The READ Clinic
01.2020 - Current
Advanced Graduate Diploma, Psychology - (Fourth Year Equivalent)
Monash University
Bachelor of Psychology -
Macquarie University
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