A day in the life of Elmo Chan, a Registered Psychologist based in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, is one filled with connection, compassion, and a drive to make a difference in the lives of others. For Elmo, psychology is more than a profession, it’s a way to empower people, especially those in underserved or vulnerable communities, to overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
Morning Preparation and Client Work
Elmo’s day begins with preparation for direct client work. Her role involves a blend of home visits, school visits, and community-based interactions. These sessions may include conducting assessments, providing counselling, or implementing therapeutic interventions tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. “
It’s about meeting clients where they are, both literally and figuratively,” Elmo explains, emphasising the importance of fostering resilience and promoting mental health awareness.
Following each session, Elmo dedicates time to documenting case notes and tracking progress. This ensures that the support provided is consistent and aligned with the client’s goals. Administrative tasks, such as responding to emails, scheduling appointments, and preparing materials for future sessions, are also a regular part of her routine.
Collaboration and Team Meetings
Collaboration with other professionals is crucial, and Elmo frequently engages in care team meetings, phone calls, and email updates to ensure all stakeholders are working together effectively.
What Elmo loves most about her role is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with clients and witness their growth over time. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see individuals develop new coping strategies and achieve their goals,” she shares.
One standout case for Elmo involved a 15-year-old girl named Sarah, who was struggling with anxiety and panic attacks triggered by social interactions. Sarah’s anxiety had begun to impact her ability to attend school and form friendships.
Through a combination of cognitive restructuring, boundary-setting, and coping techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness, Elmo worked with Sarah to help her manage her anxiety. The results were transformative, Sarah began attending school regularly, participating in class, and forming new friendships.
“Seeing her progress was an incredibly rewarding experience,” Elmo reflects, underscoring how impactful a strong therapeutic relationship and targeted interventions can be.
For Elmo, no two days are the same, but each day is filled with opportunities to make a real difference. Whether she’s supporting a young person through a challenging time or collaborating with a team to develop effective care strategies, Elmo’s dedication to her clients and passion for her work shine through in every interaction.
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* Name and individual circumstance have been changed to protect the participant’s identity.
