Overcoming Common Career Barriers in Allied Health

Introduction

Working in allied health can be deeply rewarding, but it’s not without its challenges. Many practitioners reach a point in their careers where they feel stuck, uninspired, or uncertain about the next steps. Barriers like feeling trapped in a role that no longer aligns with personal or professional goals, financial constraints that limit further education, and psychological challenges such as imposter syndrome and career fatigue can make career progression seem daunting.

In this edition, I spend some time exploring these common barriers, their impact, and practical strategies to overcome them so that allied health professionals can build fulfilling and sustainable careers.

Feeling Stuck in a Role You No Longer Enjoy

Many allied health professionals start their careers enthusiastically, only to feel stagnant or disconnected from their work after a few years. And since we spend many years studying with the prospect of working (on average) a 30 to 40-year career, it’s not an ideal place to be in! The feeling of being stuck or stagnant can arise for several reasons, including workplace culture, limited career progression, changes in interests, or burnout. I have been there, I certainly know what this feels like! 

Signs You’re Stuck

• You no longer feel challenged or engaged in your work.

• You frequently daydream about leaving your job but don’t take action.

• You feel drained at the thought of going to work, even after a break.

• You’re staying in the role primarily for stability, despite dissatisfaction.

How to Get Unstuck

1. Clarify Your Career Goals Reflect on what aspects of your work you enjoy and which ones drain you. Are you looking for more client interaction? A leadership role? More research opportunities? Identifying what you want helps you target your next steps.

2. Expand Your Skill Set If your role feels monotonous, consider upskilling. This doesn’t necessarily mean returning to university—short courses, certifications, and workshops can open new doors within your current organisation or beyond.

3. Have Career Conversations Speak with your supervisor or manager about your dissatisfaction. They may offer opportunities for additional responsibilities, secondments, or job rotation to reinvigorate your career.

4. Network with Other Professionals Attend allied health conferences, join professional groups, and engage with peers online. Seeing others in varied roles can spark ideas and offer insight into new career paths.

5. Consider Internal Transfers or a Job Change If your organisation offers different specialisations, see if you can transition into a different role within the company. If not, it may be time to start looking externally.

Financial Constraints and Career Progression

For many allied health practitioners, advancing their careers requires further education or professional development, which can be costly. Whether it’s pursuing postgraduate study, specialised training, or leadership courses, financial barriers can slow career growth.

Strategies to Overcome Financial Barriers

Look for Employer-Supported Education Some workplaces offer funding for professional development. Check if your organisation provides scholarships, study leave, or reimbursement for courses.

1. Explore Government and Industry Grants Some organisations, unions, and government bodies offer financial assistance for upskilling, especially in high-demand fields.

2. Take Advantage of Free and Low-Cost Learning Not all career growth requires a degree. Webinars, online courses, and mentorship programs can provide significant professional development without a hefty price tag.

3. Budgeting for Career Investment If further education is necessary for career advancement, plan for it financially. Set aside a portion of your income each month or consider part-time study while working.

4. Negotiate a Salary Increase or Promotion If financial constraints hold you back, consider whether you’re being paid fairly for your role. Advocating for a raise or promotion can improve your financial situation and make professional development more accessible. Make sure you realistically reflect on your level of experience and the salary you desire before you start negotiations to prevent disappointment. 

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Lack of Confidence, and Career Fatigue

Imposter Syndrome

Many allied health practitioners, particularly those stepping into supervisory or leadership roles, struggle with imposter syndrome—the belief that they are not competent despite evidence of their abilities. Believe me, it is extremely common and I can write a whole separate edition just on this topic! (Which I most likely will soon). Imposter syndrome can prevent capable professionals from seeking promotions, applying for new roles, or speaking up in professional settings.

How to Tackle Imposter Syndrome

1. Recognise and Challenge Negative Thoughts Keep a record of positive feedback from colleagues and clients. This record is just for you, you do not need to publish or show it. When self-doubt creeps in, review this evidence of your competence, it will remind you of your skills and strengths! 

2. Talk About It Discussing imposter syndrome with peers, mentors, or supervisors often reveals that others have similar feelings, helping to normalise and diminish its impact.

3. Take Small, Confidence-Building Steps Instead of waiting to feel "ready," take incremental steps toward leadership—volunteer for projects, mentor junior staff, or contribute to professional discussions.

4. Seek Professional Supervision or Coaching Clinical supervision or career coaching can help reframe self-doubt and build confidence in your expertise.

Lack of Confidence in Leadership Roles

For those allied health professionals seeking leadership opportunities, a lack of confidence and doubt in their capabilities may be a common thing. Especially at the start. However, leadership in allied health is crucial for shaping services, client outcomes and industry advancements, so below are some tips for those who desire a leadership role.

Building Leadership Confidence

Develop a Leadership Mindset Leadership isn’t just about formal titles—it’s about influence. Start by leading small projects, mentoring, or contributing to team discussions. Remember, you do not have to be in a leadership role to be a leader! 

1. Invest in Leadership Development Leadership skills can be learned. Consider workshops or courses focused on management, communication, and decision-making.

2. Find a Mentor A strong mentor can provide guidance, support, and practical strategies for stepping into leadership roles.

3. Acknowledge Your Strengths Reflect on how your clinical experience and problem-solving skills translate into leadership. You likely already have many skills that make a great leader.

Career Fatigue

Allied health professionals often work in high-demand environments that can lead to career fatigue or burnout. This can manifest as emotional exhaustion, cynicism about work, and a decreased sense of personal accomplishment.

Strategies to Manage Career Fatigue

1. Prioritise Work-Life Balance Set clear boundaries around work hours, take regular breaks, and ensure you schedule personal time for hobbies and rest.

2. Reflect on Your Workload and Role Expectations If you’re feeling burnt out, consider whether your workload is sustainable. Speak with your manager about redistributing tasks or reducing excessive demands.

3. Engage in Supervision and Peer Support Discussing workplace challenges with peers or a supervisor can provide perspective and coping strategies.

4. Consider a Change in Work Setting If the current environment is unsustainable, a shift to a different department, employer, or work model (e.g., part-time work) might be necessary, even if it is temporary. 

Conclusion

Feeling stuck, financially constrained, or mentally drained in your career doesn’t mean you have to stay that way. Allied health professionals face unique challenges, but with strategic planning, ongoing learning, and confidence-building, it’s possible to navigate these barriers and achieve fulfilling career growth.

Take small, intentional steps to re-engage with your career, whether that means pursuing further education, redefining your role, or working on your confidence. Career progression isn’t about having all the answers at once—it’s about continuously moving forward, even if the steps are small.

If you’re struggling with these barriers, consider seeking professional supervision, career coaching, or peer support. Your career should evolve in a way that serves both you and the people you help.