A Day in the Life with Registered Clinical Psychotherapist – Vicki Newman
Life is ever-changing, and my days vary according to the ebb and flow of my life. My professional journey as a Transpersonal and Experiential Psychotherapist (TEP) began in 2000. TEP is a client-centred approach that engages the emotions, mind, body, and spirit, drawing on modalities such as Sandplay and Symbol Work, Voice Dialogue, Dreamwork, Emotional Processing, and Transpersonal Breathwork.
Before beginning my TEP training, I was required to undertake at least six months of personal journey work. As a mother of four young children, this time allowed me to reflect deeply on my own needs and those of my family before committing to years of study. It also helped me contemplate the meaning of this work beyond my role as a therapist. To maintain my registration, I continue to engage in personal journey work each year. The depth of support this brings to both my personal and professional life is something I truly appreciate.
Here I am, 21 years later, reflecting on what “a day in the life” of my work looks like. My psychotherapy training and practice weave their way through my life in quiet and sustaining ways. I hope this is also reflected in my therapy sessions, as I meet diverse and unique people who hold, as best they can, the traumas that have shaped their lives.
Building a Practice, Embracing Change
I have worked in private practice as a psychotherapist since completing my TEP training. My background includes home birthing services, breastfeeding counselling, Bowen Therapy, and working as an enrolled nurse before I had children. This eclectic journey led me to run a health and well-being clinic for over two decades, supporting clients in body and mind.
Late last year, an abrupt change impacted my practice when the council closed the building, I had been working in. All businesses were given just five days’ notice to cease trading and relocate. The first six months were spent working in a reduced capacity, finding ways to continue therapy for clients in need. Many of those clients are now finalising their therapy with me.
This sudden shift gave me time to pause and reflect. In August this year, after 25 years of working for myself, I began employment 3 days a week with an organisation supporting women and families affected by domestic and family violence. While this role is separate from my private practice, I feel my diverse experience in psychotherapy has given me the clarity and skill set needed to support women in this space. As I’m still settling in, I’m learning the organisation’s procedures, protocols, and the extensive support services available to women. I rely on the knowledge and resources of my colleagues, and each day presents varied counselling and case-management needs.
On my other working days, I work private practice.
A Day in the Life in Private Practice
5:30AM: Waking up with the birds
I wake to the sound of birds outside. Throughout summer, I wake earlier and enjoy this moment of natural sound instead of an alarm clock.
I begin my day with somatic work, which varies depending on what I need. Some mornings, it’s as simple as stretching, breathing, and gently befriending my body as it awakens from sleep. Other times, I engage in an active meditation to release tensions stored in my soma—tensions from the busy or chaotic moments of life, the ones that stretch my ability to hold difficulties with awareness and calm.
This practice is essential if I am to be clear and present when meeting my clients, supporting them as they navigate their own difficulties.
6:15AM: Slow mornings
Now that my children have grown and left home, I enjoy a slower pace in the mornings. I take time for housework, washing, and a healthy breakfast.
On Wednesdays, I prepare lunches for my three days working at the women's organisation—those days are busy, and having a nutritious lunch is essential. I also make up two litres of hydrating water to support my cellular hydration, adding a pinch of salt and 6–10 drops of lemon juice per litre.
7:00AM: Setting up for private practice
On the mornings I work in private practice, I review my client list, send reminders, and catch up on anything from the day before. I also prepare for travel needs if I am working in a different location.
Between these tasks, I fit in housework, breakfast, and business admin, ensuring everything is in place before my first session. Managing emails, accounts, and other admin is not my strong suit, but I do my best to stay on top of things. The contrast between running my own practice and working for an organisation has given me a new appreciation for structured admin time.
9:00AM-6:00PM: Client contact
Client work takes place throughout the day, whether in person or online. Some days, I create space for personal time, spending time with my daughter-in-law and grandchildren or catching up with friends for lunch. The flexibility of private practice allows me to balance my personal and professional life—something that has been particularly important since the abrupt closure of my clinic.
4:30-6:00PM: From work to well-being
Evenings begin as early as 4:30PM, or I may work through until 6:00PM in private practice. Some nights, I focus on professional development, finalising my Clinical Supervisor training, or contributing to my voluntary work with the TEP Association.
There is always time for fun and laughter with friends and family. I have even started watching the occasional movie—something I rarely did before! I am also beginning to incorporate fascial and strength training workouts for my health and well-being. I hope this becomes a habit that supports my body as I approach my 60th year.
Looking ahead in 2025
As I reflect on the past year of unexpected change and new opportunities, I look forward to what 2025 will bring. Every day presents new possibilities for learning and growth, and I remain open to the journey ahead.
Connect with Vicki
Connect with Vicki on LinkedIn.