Trainees’ Experiences of Transition from Maternity Leave back into Clinical Psychology Training

Abstract

Women encounter many transitions following the birth of a child and on return to work. Whilst there have been studies exploring women’s return into the workplace, a literature review revealed limited research into trainee clinical psychologists’ experiences of transitioning. This study aimed to explore trainees’ transition from maternity leave back into clinical psychology training. A qualitative design using thematic analysis was employed. Twenty trainee clinical psychologists who had returned from maternity leave and were currently studying on a doctoral clinical psychology course were recruited. Three primary themes emerged from the data: (1) Weathering the storm: motherhood and work, (2) Learning through the experiences of motherhood, and (3) Fighting injustice. The findings highlight a need for increased provisions to support a smooth transition back into clinical psychology training. Provisions include providing a strong support framework, better return to work practices, and tackling cultural and systemic barriers impacting trainees’ return process. Clinical implications and specific recommendations are drawn from the findings with suggestions made for future research.