What I Wish I Knew About Locums: A Psychologist's Perspective

In the dynamic field of psychology, professionals often face the choice of pursuing a locum tenens position, establishing a private practice or finding employment within a corporate industry. While each path offers unique benefits and professional development, if I had known the benefits, I believe I would have chosen practicing locums at the start of my career.

As I began practicing, my professional ambitions were clear: I sought rapid career advancement, skill acquisition, and financial stability. Eager and energetic, I embraced long hours, viewing them as stepping stones to success. However, as I grew and advanced my career, my priorities and desires shifted to finding a balanced work-life schedule. The relentless pace that once invigorated me began to feel draining. I was drawn to tasks that allowed for strategic thinking, leadership, and stability. I sought workplaces that fostered support and camaraderie, valuing positive interpersonal relationships and collaborative settings.

Flexibility through diverse work environments

From a young professional eager to prove myself to a seasoned veteran who valued mentorship and intrinsic fulfillment, I've found that locum tenens positions offer a wide range of benefits that meet my needs, including flexibility, balance, and variety. Choosing assignments that fit my personal and professional needs allowed me to meet my evolving career goals. Practicing locums provided experience and flexibility through diverse work environments, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices across various geographic locations.

Working locum tenens allows you to collaborate with experienced recruiters who offer valuable advantages, helping you align your professional goals with industry trends. Recruiters can connect you to wider networks, assist with negotiations, and simplify the job search. Their expertise provides continuous support, career development, risk management, and the resources needed for long-term success.

Compensation and career development

Additionally, locums positions offer lucrative compensation. Many roles often come with highly competitive compensation packages, sometimes surpassing those of permanent positions. Many assignments include travel, housing, and meal stipends, significantly reducing living expenses and enhancing overall financial benefits.

Professional growth is another key advantage to locums. The opportunity to network with diverse professionals in various locations heavily enriches a career. Working in different settings also exposes one to many patient populations and therapeutic approaches, enhancing skills and significantly bolstering one's resume.

Working locums also means reduced administrative burdens. Hiring organizations often handle billing, credentialing, and other administrative tasks, allowing providers to focus more on patient care. Moreover, the temporary nature of locum contracts offers freedom of short-term commitments without long-term obligations, creating an ideal environment for those who thrive on variety and change.

Choosing to practice locums in psychology ultimately depends on individual preferences and career goals. Offering flexibility, diverse experiences, and often higher pay with fewer administrative responsibilities, locums is ideal for those who enjoy variety and temporary commitments while wanting to advance their skills and expertise.