The week of 13-19 May, New Zealand recognises the contribution made by psychologists to individuals, organisations, and communities across the motu.

“I am so proud of the psychologists who work across Ara Poutama Aotearoa. Their commitment to improving the wellbeing of the people in our care and the community is at the heart of 2024 New Zealand Psychology Week: Pathways to Peace and Wellbeing,"says Chief Psychologist Jessica Borg.

Everyone’s pathway to peace and wellbeing looks a little bit different, but I hope people are inspired this week to take some time to fill their wellbeing bucket."

Corrections is the second largest employer of psychologists in New Zealand. There are more than 200 registered psychologists and intern psychologists working at the Department in various different roles. Our psychologists work in prison units, health centres, and community probation sites with some of the most complex people in Corrections' care. They provide support and advice to frontline colleagues, ensure vital information is available to the New Zealand Parole Board and the Court, and deliver high quality offence-focused and mental health treatment in group and individual settings. Sometimes all of these things in one day!

In addition, some of our more experienced psychologists manage teams of psychologists, provide advice and guidance to inform strategy, legislation, parliament, and policy, undertake clinical research, and develop treatment programmes that can improve the lives of many in our care and improve public safety.

Corrections contributes to the growth and development of psychology by supporting dozens of students to complete their qualifications each year. In addition to hosting many clinical students in their practicum placements, we are a training ground for around 20 interns each year. We are an accredited psychology programme, meaning people can gain their psychology registration through us rather than a university. Also, Corrections provides generous scholarships to a number of non-psychology Corrections staff members each year to pursue their clinical psychology qualifications while still maintaining an income.

Corrections psychologists also contribute to the discipline of psychology, with our psychologists regularly publishing clinical research in national and international academic journals, and presenting at national and international conferences. 

So, if you have a psychologist in your life (or local office), take the time this week to thank them for their dedication, service, and support.

If you think you have what it takes to become a psychologist, check out our Early in Careers page to find out more.