Dr James Broughton
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board – NHS Wales
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
Working as a Clinical Psychologist. Initially working in Adult Mental Health in Dorset, then moving to work in South Wales and specialising in neurological rehabilitation (primarily stroke and brain injuries).
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I love working with people. I’m quite an analytical and curious person, and it seemed like the perfect career route for me.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
I really valued the breadth of topics we studied as part of the doctorate, and the variety of internal and external speakers who taught on the course. I also enjoyed the varied (and challenging) clinical placements in local NHS Trusts. It also helped massively that for many trainees the doctorate is funded by the NHS so you receive a salary whilst working as a Trainee Clinical Psychologist.
What did you enjoy most about studying here?
Meeting and getting to know the others on my course was a definite highlight – some friends I made for life.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
Based on it’s reputation, I’ve always held Exeter in my mind as a university I wanted to study at. It was also one of the few in the country that offer the doctorate I wanted to complete.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Completing the doctorate meant I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Keep going!! It can feel like a mountain to climb when pursuing training in clinical psychology, but it is worth it! Think about the various roles/options in academia and clinical work that could help you develop your knowledge and skills.
What are your plans for the future?
I am currently focusing on working in South Wales and pursuing further training in Clinical Neuropsychology at the University of Bristol, with the ultimate aim of registering as a Clinical Neuropsychologist.
