Joanna Little

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Devon Partnership Trust NHS

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I worked as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner for Devon Partnership Trust NHS, assessing and treating people with common mental health problems. I then completed a postgraduate diploma with Exeter, enabling me to work as a high-intensity Psychological Therapist, treating people with a range of difficulties such as PTSD, social anxiety, depression etc.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

As a mature student, I was looking to work in something completely different from my previous jobs. I wanted something involving working directly with people and that existed outside London where my previous career had been. It was also important to me that I did something meaningful and that benefitted others, with scope for personal development. I love the variety of my work. No day is boring when you are working with individuals. It is also really gratifying to see people I work with recover from their difficulties and improve their lives.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

Fantastic lecturers and range of guest speakers.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

Proximity to where I live and reputation.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Placement on my course; networking with others in the NHS; developing skills such as expressing empathy.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Get a role where you work directly supporting others and then go from there.

What are your plans for the future?

Potentially learn other modalities of working within Psychological Therapy, such as interpersonal therapy or EMDR; undertaking CPD, potentially undertaking some teaching or mentoring work.