2023
Focus on the Needs of Children and Adolescents with Special Needs, Psychologist Febriana Sidjaja Actively Educates the Community.
Fransisca Febriana Sidjaja, M.Psi., Ph.D., (Febri) a Psychologist and lecturer at the Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH), expressed that becoming a lecturer is a calling for her. She never dreamed of becoming a full-time lecturer like she is now, but it has become a fulfilling path for her.
Febri has been a permanent lecturer at UPH since July 2022. Apart from teaching in the regular undergraduate class, she also serves as a lecturer in UPH Employee Class Psychology Program (Program Psikologi Kelas Karyawan UPH). In her role as a lecturer, she teaches courses in Developmental Psychology, Mental Health, Ethics, as well as Training and Development.
Although she aspired to become an astronaut during her childhood, after graduating from high school (SMA), Febri felt that studying Psychology was the right choice for her to pursue higher education. Since then, her interest in psychology has grown, and she has dedicated herself to the field.
Febri earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Clinical Psychology from The University of Queensland, Australia. She also holds a psychology practicing license from the Indonesian Psychological Association (HIMPSI). Moreover, Febri holds a certification as a consultant for parents of children with special needs from the Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) International in the USA. Currently, alongside her teaching role, Febri practices as a Child Psychologist at the Cornerstone Psychological Centre, a counseling institution open to the public at UPH.
Throughout her career, Febri has achieved various accomplishments and received prestigious awards. These include the Australian Leadership Awards scholarship from the Australian government in 2010; the Australian Human Development Association Conference Student scholarship from the Australian Human Development Association in 2013; the Best Presentation Award at the Psychology Research Higher Degree Day Presentation from the University of Queensland in 2014; and the 2015 Dean’s Award for Outstanding Research Higher Degree Theses from the University of Queensland in 2016.
Febri is deeply committed to supporting children and adolescents with special needs. As a lecturer and child psychologist, she integrates her knowledge and experience to empower parents of children and adolescents with special needs, aiming to improve their mental well-being and unlock their full potential. Her strong dedication and active involvement make Febri an inspiring and invaluable resource for families with special-needs children and adolescents who seek her assistance.
“I decided to join UPH because the institution’s values align with mine – to educate future generations with Godly character, preparing them to become future leaders and bring positive changes for our nation and country,” said Febri.
Throughout her practice, Febri frequently encounters parents facing challenges in raising children with special needs, including Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning difficulties, and emotional issues. These experiences have motivated her to focus on clinical psychology cases related to the growth and development of children and adolescents, especially those with Autism.
Among all of Febri’s achievements, she feels most satisfied when the advice given to clients can help children with special needs grow more optimally and happily. Additionally, she takes great pride in serving as a positive role model and example for both students and her child. For her, this satisfaction cannot be bought with money.
“Indonesia still needs many practitioners who care about families with children having special developmental conditions. I want to be a blessing by helping them achieve their optimal self-potential,” said Febri.
Febri emphasized that knowledge and skills are vital assets for a child and adolescent psychologist. A psychologist must possess clinical, research, teamwork, interpersonal, and leadership abilities. According to her, becoming a clinical psychologist for children and adolescents requires not only intelligence but also a caring heart for others.
Febri strongly believes that there is a high demand for career opportunities in the field of psychology. She mentioned that back when she started her undergraduate education in 1999, seeking help from a psychologist was often seen as taboo. However, Indonesian society has now become increasingly aware of the valuable contributions psychologists make across various job sectors. “My hope is for the field of psychology in Indonesia to gain more recognition and appreciation from the community. I strongly believe that Psychology graduates in Indonesia possess many virtues that can significantly contribute to making Indonesian society more sensitive to the emotional needs of children,” she stated.
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