Graduate Story

Meet Dr Emma Ruddock

National Clinical Supervisor Manager

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

With over a decade of experience working at senior levels both in private practice and government organisations, I’ve specialised in the area of trauma and attachment and have had the privilege or working with some of the most resilient young people.

My second, but equal passion, is supervision and training – helping young psychologists navigate the profession and their confidence. It is absolutely our privilege – not our right – to support people when they most vulnerable. This is something I take extremely seriously.

What do you enjoy most about being a supervisor?

Getting to know the supervisee – reading between the lines to see what they could be amazing at, and what needs to be supported to get them to a great space! Watching people blossom in terms of confidence and skills, and at the end of the process, launching a new, amazing psychologist into the world. That’s what I love.

Often, supervisees don’t know what they’re good at or don’t believe in themselves – supervisors put the time in to help flesh these people out. Each supervisee I support is a lifetime of people that they, in turn, can help.

How can I build an effective relationship with my supervisor?

Be on time and be prepared.

Take a little bit of a leap of faith in that your supervisors are here to help you. You can be vulnerable and you can let them get to know you and get to know what makes you tick. Share your passions and your interests!  Be brave enough to highlight any areas in which you feel you might need extra support in.

Will I have an opportunity to develop my own caseload?

100%! The program is tailored so that you are practicing and learning concurrently. You can implement hands-on practical skills while you learn.

Are there any personal attributes that make for a successful program participant?

Be self-motivated and full of initiative – we look for people who are really passionate about not only doing the work, but learning and honing their craft. Those who are big enough and tough enough to admit when they’re struggling or when they need help.

When I complete this program, will I be exposed to employment opportunities with Humanity Health Group?

Our graduate program has been designed to to attract bright, motivated engaging therapeutic stars. We want to build participants into dynamic, leading clinicians – we will help you find your ‘perfect role’ within the organisation.

Do you have advice for those finishing school/tertiary education, and looking to pursue a job in psychology?  

Be well-informed – psychology is not what it looks like in the TV and in the movies, and the practice of psychology within a clinical population is very different to learning in a classroom. Get to know yourself, so that you have a thorough understanding of what you’re good at, what you struggle with, what helps you cope during times of stress.

Are there any misconceptions about psychology?

Yes, there are. It’s slow. Psychology is slow. You’re not doing ground-breaking, hard work every session. It’s about hastening slowly and building brick-by-brick toward that ‘WOW’ moment…this requires a lot of patience. And there is so much more behind the scenes work than people realise. If we’re doing our job correctly, then we shouldn’t be needed. At times, this doesn’t feel very glamorous.