Article archive / February 1, 2010
Originally published: . Volume 1, No. 6. Source pages: 8.
Caitlin Singletary is currently near the end of her work in the APA-accredited Counseling Psychology program at Louisiana Tech. She noted that the positive change in people is the most inspiring part of counseling. She is also invigorated to see clients take back control in their lives. She stated, “It is inspiring to see the journey and the change in people, but seeing an individual learn how to take back the control and live their life is what keeps me in psychology.”
She lists memorable experiences in her program including being presented with an Outstanding Doctoral Achievement Award by the Psychology Department and being informed that her research paper was accepted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. She stated, “It is an honor to be recognized, whether it is by my faculty or by someone from the outside who sees that my hard work can contribute something to others.”
Her favorite courses are the technique courses. She explained that, "By the end of the class, I have a more thorough understanding of the technique. And, I can modify and mold it to fit my therapeutic orientation."
She stated that the LA Tech program has provided her with great opportunities. She described growing as a therapist through the curriculum and her practicum experiences. The program also offers lectures and weekend workshops where she developed a strong interest in hypnosis. She has since completed hypnosis training through ASCH.
Caitlin has been continually obtaining research experience since 2005, and has taught undergraduate courses in both Introductory and Developmental Psychology. Because of her interest in research, she has had the opportunity to present at LPA's annual convention for the past two years. She has also been appointed the student director of her program’s student-run clinic, which has helped her learn the business- side of psychology.
Her research interests include pain management, chronic illness/disability, and hypnosis. Her current research focuses on the psychological effects of training centers on blind adults and predicting surgical outcome using psychological assessments. She currently works at the office of David Williams, Ph.D., M.P. in Monroe, LA. Under the supervision of Dr. Williams, she has had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients, including those with chronic pain.
Caitlin's eventual goal is to work in a private practice setting while having a relationship with a pain clinic. She could then help facilitate recovery in pain patients from the psychological side and help medical doctors determine treatment recommendations based on psychological assessments. She would also like to work as an adjunct professor, teaching future health workers in her specialty.
Her advice for undergraduate students is for them to find their passion. She entered her program knowing her goals and possessing a strong desire for working with chronic pain patients. She stated, "It is this passion that motivates me every day. It is this passion that makes me want to learn beyond my program's curriculum. It is this passion that inspires me to make a difference."
Caitlin presenting her research at LPA's annual convention.
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