AATBS Coaches Discuss Work-Study-Life Balance

Alisa is studying to become a Marriage and Family Therapist, and she is currently preparing for the California MFT exam. Passing the exam is the final hurdle standing in the way of Alisa being able to realize her career ambitions. However, Alisa also has a 3-year-old son she is taking care of, plus a boyfriend who constantly wants to spend time with her. How can Alisa balance her test preparation with the responsibilities of her family and loved ones?

Jared is studying to pass the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP). He has been studying for the last 2 months and is mentally exhausted. Jared would like nothing better than to take a break from his studies and go on a skiing trip with his friends. However, he feels guilty for even taking one day off his rigorous schedule of EPPP preparation.

Camila is studying to pass the Social Work exam. Facing the pressures of a tight deadline, she knows she needs to explain to her husband and three children that they must stop disturbing her during the times set aside for study. However, Camila doesn’t know how to explain this to her family without sounding selfish. What should she do?

The above scenarios are commonplace in the world of behavioral health. In fact, one of the most common challenges facing people preparing for the licensing exam is how to balance studying with the other responsibilities and pressures of life.

Our in-house exam consultants, Melissa and Jennifer, have talked to dozens of people who find themselves in exactly these types of situations. Earlier this month, they returned to Coaches’ Corner with a broadcast on this very subject: how to balance the responsibilities of studying with the demands of a busy life.

Some of issues addressed in this video include the following:

  • Should a person approach their studies like a part-time job?
  • How do you study for an exam and live an ordinary life at the same time?
  • Is it okay to go on vacation in the midst of a rigorous schedule of test preparation?
  • How should a person deal with mental burnout?
  • How can the technique of “chunking” help with exam preparation?
  • How can a person take care of themselves (including listening to their body’s needs) during the strenuous process of licensure preparation?
  • What are some ways to set limits with the people you love?
  • How can you choose the best test date?
  • When engaged in test preparation, is it okay to be “selfish” and focus on your needs, even if that means neglecting those around you?

Melissa and Jennifer addressed these and other common problems in the video below.

And don’t forget that our Coaches’ Corner happens live every Wednesday at 12pm (PT). Grab some coffee and spend some time with us! For updates and links, keep an eye on the AATBS Exam Prep Facebook Group.