University of the Sunshine Coast graduate Emily Frampton has returned home to Gympie to provide professional health care for adults facing mental health issues.

Emily, 24, secured a job as a psychologist with Gympie Mental Health at Gympie Hospital after recently completing a Master of Psychology (Clinical) at USC.

Gympie Mental Health is run by the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service and provides specialty services for children, youths, adults and older people.

Emily said that her final practicum with the hospital and health service as part of her studies last year led to a job offer before she formally graduated on Friday 8 April.

“The placement gave me a foot in the door and allowed me to showcase my skills prior to being considered for my current position,” she said.

“It is extremely rewarding to be in this role, helping people coming through the public mental health system to get back on their feet.” 

After completing her undergraduate degree in Brisbane, the former James Nash State High School student decided to move back to Gympie but still wanted to pursue a career in clinical psychology.

“I chose to study at USC’s main campus of Sippy Downs because it is so close to Gympie and it offered the Master of Psychology (Clinical) degree,” she said.

Emily said she found the smaller, supportive education environment at USC very different to her university experience in Brisbane.

“My cohort was very small and we formed a close supportive group which was really valuable,” she said. “Instead of driving every day from Gympie, I used the inter-campus bus wherever possible, which was such a useful service.

“The coursework and practicums were so helpful and by the end of the degree I felt completely ready for the workforce.” 

Emily said she plans to spend the next two years completing her registration as a clinical psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia.

“From there, the possibilities are endless,” she said.

Applications are now open for mid-year entry for a range of programs at USC.

— Clare McKay