When I began my journey as a magistrate, I had no idea that more than a decade later, I would also be a psychologist. My entry into psychology came not from an academic pursuit but through the realization that the law alone wasn’t enough to heal the brokenness I witnessed in the courtroom—and in myself. Here’s a look at the unexpected lessons I’ve learned about navigating both worlds and how healing from personal pain led me to psychology.
The Courtroom as a Battleground for Emotions
As a magistrate, I quickly learned that legal processes go far beyond applying statutes and enforcing rules. The courtroom often becomes a battleground where emotions run high, and beneath legal disputes, there are deep psychological wounds. Whether it was divorce, custody battles, or criminal cases, people were not just seeking justice but also healing. I began to see how law and therapy could intersect.
Healing My Own Pain Through Legal Processes and Therapy
My journey into psychology began with my own pain. As I faced personal life challenges—including divorce and emotional turmoil—I realized that therapy was key to my healing. Legal processes could only do so much to resolve the external issues, but the internal healing needed a different approach. Therapy became the space where I could process the trauma I had witnessed as both a magistrate and a person.
How Psychology Helped Me See the Law Differently
Studying psychology changed my perspective on the law. I started viewing my cases through a therapeutic lens, asking myself, “What emotional or mental state brought this person to this moment?” This dual lens allowed me to see both the legal and psychological components of disputes. Psychology empowered me to handle cases with more empathy, seeing litigants not just as parties to a case but as individuals with complex emotional landscapes.
The Power of Trauma-Informed Justice
One of the biggest things I didn’t realize until becoming a psychologist is the power of trauma-informed justice. As a magistrate, I used to think that following procedures was enough. But now I know that people carry unresolved trauma into the courtroom, and a justice system that recognizes this is better equipped to handle disputes and deliver real justice. Integrating psychological understanding into legal practice can profoundly shift the way cases are resolved.
The Personal Impact of Wearing Two Hats
Balancing life as both a magistrate and a psychologist has had a profound personal impact on me. It’s not just about understanding clients better; it’s about understanding myself. I’ve become more self-aware, more reflective, and more grounded. Navigating these two demanding fields has given me the tools to better handle stress, avoid burnout, and find meaning in my work.
The Importance of Self-Care and Mental Health
Being in both the legal and mental health professions has shown me the importance of self-care. The more I focused on my mental well-being, the more effective I became in both roles. I learned to prioritize prayer, rest, mindfulness, and seeking support when needed. Balancing these two professions has taught me the value of setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, and leaning into faith during tough times.
Advice for Future Lawyers and Psychologists
If there’s one piece of advice I’d give to anyone considering a career in law or psychology—or both—it’s this: don’t underestimate the power of emotional intelligence. Whether you’re in the courtroom or the therapy room, emotional awareness is just as important as technical skills. And don’t be afraid to seek help and healing yourself. The best practitioners are those who’ve walked their own journey of self-discovery.
Conclusion – Healing Through Both Roles
In the end, being a magistrate and psychologist has taught me that healing comes in many forms. While the law seeks justice, psychology seeks to understand and heal the mind and soul. In combining both, I’ve found deeper meaning in my work and personal life. It’s a journey I never expected but one I’m incredibly grateful for.
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