Bridging Corporate Experience & Rehabilitation Psychology
After a successful 26-year tenure in IT, Sonia Nair (MPhil Rehabilitation Psychology) transitioned to rehabilitation psychology, driven by a newfound passion for making a societal impact and exploring the world of disabilities at NIEPID.
Ms. Sonia Nair, can you tell us about your transition from a long career in IT to the field of rehabilitation psychology?
My journey into psychology began during the COVID pandemic when I decided to pursue a postgraduate degree in psychology after 26 years in the corporate sector. Post-COVID, I seized the opportunity to intern at NIEPID, which sparked my interest in disabilities. This shift was driven by my curiosity and desire to make a societal impact, guiding me into this enriching field of study.
What inspired you to specifically focus on neurodevelopmental disabilities?
Working at NIEPID opened my eyes to the complexities and the broader spectrum of neurodevelopmental disabilities. I saw a vast opportunity to contribute through awareness and professional involvement. The service gap in mental health and well-being in India is about 95%, presenting a significant area for professionals to make a difference, whether they are psychologists, paediatricians, genetic counsellors, or therapists.
Can you share how this field has been fulfilling for you personally?
Absolutely. This journey has been incredibly fulfilling. The potential to generate services, conduct research, and really dive into the depths of disabilities has been gratifying. I’m particularly focused on psychometric assessments, counselling, and psychoeducation for parents, which are crucial in addressing the needs within this field.
How do you see your background in IT connecting with your current role in rehabilitation psychology?
There’s a significant crossover between corporate stress management and the skills I’m acquiring in rehabilitation psychology. In the corporate world, especially post-COVID, stress and work-life balance issues are prevalent. My training helps bridge the gap by promoting psychological safety and supporting diversity in the workplace, including for persons with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism or ADHD.
What opportunities do you believe exist for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities within the corporate sector?
There are substantial opportunities. For instance, reframing job descriptions to be inclusive can open many doors for individuals with disabilities in various sectors. My training equips me to identify potential roles where individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities can thrive, particularly in IT and other corporate settings.
In what ways do you think your work can impact mental health practices within the corporate sector?
The skills I’ve developed here are vital for creating a more supportive corporate environment. We can teach employees how to manage work stress and anxiety effectively, even during long work hours. This not only enhances individual well-being but also contributes to a healthier, more productive workplace culture.
Finally, what are your future aspirations in this field?
I am eager to continue advancing awareness about disabilities and expanding my work in psychometric analysis and assessments. The goal is to blend my corporate experience and psychological training to foster inclusive environments both in educational settings and the workplace.
