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Women in Medicine: Sonali Wason, PsyD
During September, we proudly feature women in our department for
Women in Medicine Month!
Share a memorable experience or accomplishment you are proud of in your career. How did it impact your journey?
Graduating with my doctorate degree is one of the most meaningful experiences in my career because I was the first person in my entire family to become a doctor. It's made me realize how important it is to me to provide mentorship and support to other students and individuals who are pursuing clinical or sport psychology, especially folks of color.
What would you tell other women starting to pursue a career in medicine?
Know your why. There will be challenges and road blocks that you experience that make you ask "why am I even doing this?" and you'll want to be able to answer that question in a way that feels meaningful to you. Be relentless about your own self-nourishment. Be thoughtful and intentional about pursuing what nourishes your body, spirit, and mind.
Sonali Wason, PsyD
What are some of the things that inspire you on a day-to-day basis?
As a clinical and sport psychologist, one of the most inspirational things that I experience on a day-to-day basis with every client I meet is the bravery it takes to be vulnerable. My patients (athletes) are often expected to be super-human. Often times, athletes hear messages that center around "being strong" and disconnecting from their emotions and despite this, they pursue being in touch with their vulnerability. It's incredibly brave to be in touch with your humanity and witnessing this bravery encourages me to do the same.
I'm so inspired and encouraged by the incredibly accomplished Women in Medicine around me! Serena Williams' quote is one of my favorites:
"Every woman's success should be an inspiration to another. We're strongest when we cheer each other on."
What specific strategies do you use to maintain your own well-being?
I am relentless and boundaried about my own self-care! I practice staying in routine around my physical well-being (making time for my own doctors' appointments, therapy appointments, exercise, meal times) and am intentional about tending to activities, relationships, and interests that feel nourishing to me. Family time and girls' trips are non-negotiables for me!
Women in Medicine
We asked some of the #StanfordWIM in our department to share their stories - what advice they would give someone starting in the field, what well-being strategies they use, and what inspires them. Read what they have to say! #WomenInMedicine
