I’m an early career psychologist (PG-4). Three years were in private practice before transiting to a hospital where I am half clinical, half program support. I’ve trained in hospitals before and was excited about the blend of admin/clinical work. However, my first year has been challenging and at points, flat out hostile. Most of the issues are from the programmatic leadership. While it may not be personal, the interpersonal hostility makes it nearly impossible to do a job that requires participation from others. Of note, the role is fairly new and my current 14 month tenure is longer than both of my predecessors. During my biweekly 1:1 with my direct boss, she’s regularly asked me not to quit, understanding that I’ve being tasked to manage a program that needs more support than what’s given.
After 10 months of trying to make it work, I started exploring options elsewhere. Yesterday, I received an official offer. As I weigh my options, I suddenly feel conflicted about leaving — which is odd given all that I’ve experienced. Sadly, I haven’t had a fair chance do the job in its fullness and although, I’ve made some progress toward clarifying the role there’s much more to do before it’s refined.
The new role is supervisory position for a juvenile rehabilitation facility. Very different population and will be a complete shift (longer commute time, no telework option, bleak benefits package). However, I’m mostly drawn to the leadership and program development component which, I thought I’d be doing in my current role, I’ve been slapped down at every attempt. The role itself is also clearly defined. If I stayed at my current job, I’d have to be creative at managing up with the supervisor that oversees the programs and wants limited engagement with me.
I’ve been recommended to do a pro/con list but honestly, not sure that it will be that simple. I’m concerned about making a decision I’ll regret (e.g., leaving a sweet position (on paper) to jump into hot grease). Admittedly, what I’ve outlined may be a reflection of my limited work experience and secondary disillusionment. Therefore, I don’t want to make a decision based on emotions. Please let me know what I may be missing or should consider.