Shannon Kowalski

I have a passion for mental health, I have studied psychology for the past 10 years in further and higher education (and continual development in my own time). I studied psychology in my A levels, undergraduate and postgraduate studies. BSc (Hons) psychology first class. MSc forensic psychology distinction.
Currently applying to studying a PhD in psychiatry.
I’ve gained valuable and imperative training within the NHS.

I hope to continue learning and developing my knowledge and skill set. I believe I am suited to tutoring (mostly within in the psychology field) as I have a caring nature, attentive listening skills and a vast knowledge of psychiatric/neuropsychological disorders and mental well - being. I also have relevant experience working with mental health patients and experience of conducting assessments on patients with mental and physical health conditions.

Moreover, I received a distinction in advanced statistics, this is evidence of strong academic, statistical analysis and computer software skills (SPSS & MATLAB). I have paid special interest in psychosis, personality disorders, developmental disorders, memory and neuropsychology. I keep my knowledge up to date by reading current research. I have learned how to analyse psychological assessment tools. My forensic studies gave me an insight into some of the most vulnerable individuals in society and challenging case studies. I also learned how to use and critique psychological risk assessment tools. I spent a lot of time working at a homeless shelter during this experience, I learned first-hand how to deescalate very challenging situations and to provide the utmost care and understanding towards vulnerable people. Currently, I am learning British sign language in the hopes of using this skill when working with clients who are non-verbal.

I would be able to support students across a wide range of subjects whilst providing an informal counselling touch. I have spent time being a tutor during my A-levels, a student ambassador in my undergraduate degree as well as a course ambassador for the school of psychology.

Other areas of particular interest and knowledge include English Literature, History (to which I received A and A* at Alevel) biology, critical thinking, politics and political science.

I have experience with safeguarding procedures which is essential for identifying risk factors and vulnerabilities in students. Within the Kent area I have a vast knowledge and list of resources for signposting people with issues relating to
to mental health; housing, finances/debt, talking therapies, domestic abuse, sexual abuse, older adults, younger persons, bereavement, self referrals, psychoeducation, drop in services amongst many others.