Completing my Master in Clinical Psychology at IMU has been one of the most challenging yet deeply rewarding experiences in my life. IMU was actually my first choice even before I pursued my undergraduate studies in Australia. When I returned to Malaysia and decided to continue with my Master’s, I was thrilled to learn that IMU had launched the Master of Clinical Psychology programme. It quickly became my top choice again because of its strong reputation, emphasis on practical clinical training, and the lecturers who are both experienced educators and practising clinicians.
The journey was rigorous and at times stressful, but it pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.
One of the things I appreciated most about the MCP programme was how much it focused on hands-on, practical experience. Being able to combine academic knowledge with real-world practice gave me a clearer sense of what it’s like to work in the field and strengthened my commitment to becoming a capable and compassionate clinical psychologist.
As part of my practicum, I gained valuable hands-on experience across different settings such as universities, private healthcare centres, hospitals, community organisations and NGOs, working with a wide variety of clients and cases. Each placement brought its own set of clients, cases and learning moments, which helped me build confidence, adaptability and empathy as a trainee clinician. Through these placements, working with different populations in a variety of settings really helped me grow in confidence and flexibility as a clinician.
I also had opportunities to conduct workshops, organise events, and participate in extracurricular activities that further strengthened my communication and leadership skills.
What made the experience especially meaningful were the people I met along the way.
The lecturers and supervisors were always supportive and approachable, guiding me to think critically and apply what I’d learned in real situations. My lecturers and supervisors guided me with patience and care, encouraging me to find my own voice and approach as a therapist.
My cohort played an equally big role. We supported one another through long hours, tough cases, and emotional ups and downs. They started as course mates, but became close friends who made this journey so much more bearable and memorable.
What's Next?
Right now, I’m waiting for my official graduation and my license to practise as a clinical psychologist. In the meantime, I’m working as a behaviour therapist for children with special needs, a role that allows me to apply what I’ve learned in assessment and therapy while staying connected to the clinical field I’m truly passionate about. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see how my skills can make a difference, especially for children and families who need extra support.
In the future, I hope to keep growing as a clinician and explore different settings to become as well-rounded as I can be. This journey has taught me that being a clinical psychologist is not just about mastering techniques or theories, but about truly understanding people, holding space for their stories, and evolving alongside them.
If I could share one piece of advice, it would be to pursue what you’re truly passionate about, especially if it’s helping others and supporting mental health. The path to becoming a clinical psychologist demands dedication and resilience, but it is an incredibly fulfilling journey that shapes not only your career but also who you are as a person.
Written by Vivianne Kong En Yee
Congratulations on completing your Masters, Vivianne! So proud of youu
Congratulations on completing your masters! I know how hard and tough during this journey, we did it! So grateful to have you who always support me during my journey. I know you will become a great CP and I wish during this journey you remember that self care come first, love you😘
Congratulations on completing your Master’s Vivianne! Happy for you!
Dear Vivianne,
So proud to see you in such readiness to be the next professional clinical psychologist!! You have confidence , empathy , “you actively listening” and obviously have the skillset and training in the real world, away from the sandbox!
Your experience at IMU seems to have successfully built on and strengthened your solid foundation from your bachelor degree development. Also seems that you enjoy and contribute to the ecosystem of the IMU master degree programme.
You make us proud to see a little girl developing into a professional lady who is ready to make differences in people lives!
Hi Viv
You made it … It’s amazing how you got here !!! Well deserved and congratulations!!! .
It’s been tough and you are always on top of things and consistent .
So proud of you and I know you will do even better in your future and help others whenever and wherever you can . Please don’t forget to look after yourself … self care 😘.
So proud of you!