We Are IH: Clinical psychologist helps trauma patient recovery

Originally from the Bulkley Valley in northern B.C., Logan completed his undergraduate degree in Ottawa before moving further east to Halifax where he completed his doctorate in clinical psychology at Dalhousie University. His clinical residency brought him back west to Edmonton, where he started his career.

“I began my career as a psychologist working at the Cross Cancer Institute, where I supported the psychological needs of cancer patients and their family members,” he says. 

“A desire to be close to family led me and my partner to move to Kamloops, where I took a newly posted position with Trauma Services here at Royal Inland Hospital.”

Fast forward two years, and Logan says his current role is diverse, unique, and challenging. He’s part of an acute trauma services care team, providing psychological support to patients while they’re in the hospital and after they’ve been discharged. He’s equally passionate about helping patients and sharing his knowledge with other clinical staff so they can better identify and support the emotional needs of patients and families.

“There are very few psychologists in Canada working as integrated members of an acute trauma service, so the role has provided an opportunity to model what can be accomplished by considering and addressing the psychological needs of trauma patients early in their recovery.

In addition to his clinical role, Logan is also one of the Psychology Professional Practice Leads at IH.

“I’ve now been in the role for over a year and am working with my counterparts regionally and provincially to guide the practice of psychology here in the Thompson-Cariboo-Shuswap region.”

Outside of work, Logan thrives on spending time in nature and with loved ones, including his extended family and his cat, Diamond.

“My fiancé and I take full advantage of our new proximity to family here in Kamloops. We have had two years to watch our first niece grow into a vibrant young human and will soon be welcoming two more nieces and nephews to the family later this year. Day to day, I also try to keep our mischievous feline out of trouble, admittedly with limited success.

“Time outdoors is never wasted, no matter the season. We are avid hikers with a garage full of ‘adventure paraphernalia’, so we try to seek out wild places whenever the opportunity arises. The physical challenge provides a welcome contrast to my work role, but I most appreciate having the chance to marinade in nature rather than simply moving through it. I believe nature can be therapeutic, but we need to learn to walk (or paddle) gently.” 

“Allyson is the clinical nurse specialist with the IH Regional Trauma Network. Although much of her role is in the background of direct patient care, her wealth of knowledge, careful reflection, and diligent support for the network makes her something of a ‘silent hero’ who I think should be highlighted. She even recently launched a podcast supporting excellence in nursing education here at IH.” – Dr. Logan Nealis 

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