Mikaela Burke
Newbridge,Ireland
Summary
A motivated individual currently in final year at DCU, with a strong foundation in psychology and its practical applications. Skilled in psychometric testing, data collection and analysis, behavioural assessment, and intervention design. Proficient in evidence-based practices, cognitive and behavioural approaches, and understanding the psychological principles underlying human behaviour, motivation, and resilience. Demonstrates exceptional problem-solving abilities, emotional intelligence, and effective communication skills, with the capacity to remain calm and adaptable under pressure. Proven expertise in team building, rapport building, and facilitating positive group dynamics. Supported by extensive experience in research methods, statistical analysis (SPSS, R), and data-driven decision-making. Committed to leveraging psychological expertise to enhance organisational performance, improve well-being, and foster continuous growth.
Overview
1
1
Certification
Work History
Tiglin - Student Placement
Aubrey McCarthy
Pearse St., Dublin
01.2024 - 05.2024
- Gained hands-on experience in addiction recovery, working at The Lighthouse in Dublin and the women's residential centre in Brittas Bay.
- Supported individuals dealing with homelessness, poverty, and addiction, with focus on psychological impact of trauma, depression, and anxiety.
- Observed and contributed to pre-entry group therapy sessions and daily check-ins, fostering trust, emotional sharing, and mutual support among residents.
- Assisted in 16-month phased rehabilitation program emphasising relapse prevention, skill-building, and societal reintegration.
- Witnessed the application of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and behaviour modification techniques by psychologists to address past traumas, manage cravings, and develop coping strategies.
- Developed an understanding of trauma-informed care and the psychological principles underlying addiction recovery and relapse prevention.
- Learned the role of mental health assessments in determining program eligibility and supporting recovery in a faith-based setting.
The integration of psychological practices within Tiglin highlights the importance of a holistic approach to addiction recovery. This placement provided me with firsthand experience in how psychological theories and interventions, such as CBT, trauma-informed care, and group therapy dynamics, are applied in real-world settings. It emphasised the critical role of psychology in empowering individuals to overcome addiction and build healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
DCU
Dublin 09.2021 -
Leaving Certificate -
Newbridge College
Newbridge, Co. Kildare 09.2014 - 06.2020
Skills
- Calm under pressure
- Problem-solving
- Communication skills
- Rapport Building
- Psychometric testing
- Team building
- Research Methods
- Use of statistical software
- Data-Collection & Analysis
- Programme development
Affiliations
- GAA
- Running
Accomplishments
I enjoy participating in several sports, including Gaelic football and fitness. I have completed half marathons, the most recent being in March 2023. I played hockey with the Newbridge College Junior Cup team and the Senior team in the premier league. I play Gaelic football with the Two Mile House Ladies team. I have also had the honour of representing Kildare since the age of 12, and I was privileged to have captained the U16 team to an all-Ireland semi-final. I Am the Ladies' representative for my club and Captain of the Senior Ladies' Team.
In addition to my achievements in team sports, I am committed to personal fitness and endurance challenges. I have completed both a half marathon and a full marathon, experiences that required discipline, resilience, and a deep dedication to personal growth. These accomplishments reflect my determination to set high standards for myself and my commitment to continuous improvement, qualities that I bring to all areas of my life, including my academic and professional pursuits.
Certification
Completed Safe Talk About Suicide Training Programme.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Tiglin - Student Placement
Aubrey McCarthy
01.2024 - 05.2024
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
DCU
09.2021 -
Leaving Certificate -
Newbridge College
09.2014 - 06.2020
Completed Safe Talk About Suicide Training Programme.