Gaining Real-World Experience in Healthcare:

A Chiropractic Student’s Perspective 

By Darioush Delalat

When I first began my journey at CCS Health, I was a quiet, introverted undergraduate student with no real experience in the healthcare field. What I did have was a deep passion for helping people. Like many students, I was learning to balance the academic demands of university life with the desire to find meaningful, real-world opportunities. Fortunately, I found CCS Health, a place that not only welcomed me but also played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of what it truly means to practice holistic health. 

From day one, CCS Health has been more than just a workplace. It has been a learning environment, a support system, and most importantly, a place where I could witness the direct impact of quality healthcare on people's lives. The experience I have gained here has been invaluable, both academically and professionally.

One of the most transformative aspects of my time at CCS Health has been the mentorship I've received. It is one thing to learn about anatomy, physiology, and clinical theory in a classroom. But applying that knowledge in a real-world setting, where each patient presents a unique story and set of needs, has been a game changer. The practitioners at CCS Health have taken the time to teach, guide, and lead by example, showing me how to think critically, work collaboratively, and prioritise patient-centered care. 

As an Allied Health Assistant, I have come to understand just how important patient interaction truly is. Being the first point of contact when someone walks into the clinic is a role I have grown to appreciate deeply. Offering a warm smile and a friendly welcome might seem simple, but it sets the tone for the entire patient experience. It helps people feel safe, heard, and valued, all of which are essential elements in a healthcare environment. Through this, I've learned the subtle but vital importance of practicing empathy, active listening, and clear communication. These aren't just soft skills; they are foundational in building trust and delivering effective care. 

Perhaps the most eye-opening lesson I've learned during my time at CCS Health has been the power of a multimodal approach to treatment. Before working here, I primarily associated chiropractic care with adjustments. But what I've seen firsthand is how much more comprehensive and effective care becomes when a range of modalities are integrated. Massage therapy, soft tissue work, rehabilitation exercises, and lifestyle education all play a role in helping patients achieve long-term improvements. This holistic approach does more than address immediate symptoms. It aims to treat the root causes of pain and dysfunction, supporting sustainable health outcomes. 

As a student of healthcare, witnessing the synergy between different treatment techniques has been incredibly enlightening. It has shown me that effective chiropractic care is never one-size-fits-all. Instead, it is a personalised, evolving process that requires adaptability, collaboration, and a broad toolkit of strategies. This philosophy of care has inspired me and continues to shape the kind of healthcare provider I hope to become. 

Looking back, I can confidently say that joining CCS Health has been one of the most impactful decisions I've made on my journey to becoming a chiropractor. The real-world experience, supportive mentorship, and hands-on learning have all helped build a solid foundation for my future career. I am grateful for the opportunities I've had, the lessons I've learned, and the patients I've met along the way, each of whom has taught me something new about what it means to care, to heal, and to grow in the field of healthcare. 

Tips for Students and Upcoming Practitioners:

Making the Most of Your Time in a Clinical Setting 

If you're a student looking to gain experience in a healthcare setting, or if you're just beginning your journey in the allied health or chiropractic field, here are six key tips I've learned from my time at CCS Health: 

1. Be Open to Learning Beyond the Textbooks 

Classroom knowledge is essential, but it's just the beginning. Real growth happens when you're willing to observe, ask questions, and absorb everything you can from hands-on experiences. Watch how practitioners interact with patients, handle unexpected situations, and make clinical decisions. This is where the real-world application of theory comes to life. 

2. Seek Out Mentorship and Be Coachable 

One of the most valuable aspects of working in a clinic is the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals. Don't be afraid to ask questions or request feedback. Approach each day with humility and a willingness to be guided. The best mentors are often more than happy to share their insights with students who show genuine curiosity and initiative. 

3. Understand the Power of First Impressions 

If you're assisting in a clinic, your role may involve greeting and checking in patients. Don't underestimate the impact this has. Being warm, approachable, and professional helps create a welcoming atmosphere that puts patients at ease. It's also a great way to develop your interpersonal skills, which are just as critical as your clinical knowledge. 

4. Observe How Holistic Care Is Delivered 

Take note of how various treatment methods are integrated into patient care. Understanding the value of a multimodal approach, from adjustments and soft tissue work to rehab and lifestyle education, will help you build a more comprehensive understanding of what effective, long-term care looks like. It's not just about treating symptoms; it's about understanding the person behind them. 

5. Practice Active Listening and Communication 

Whether you're speaking with patients, peers, or supervisors, good communication is everything. Learn to listen more than you speak. Try to really understand what patients are saying, and not saying. This will not only improve patient care but also help you build trust and rapport in every professional interaction. 

6. Respect the Process and Be Patient with Yourself 

Growth in a clinical setting doesn't happen overnight. It can feel overwhelming at first, and that's okay. You're not expected to know everything. What matters most is showing up with the right mindset, being consistent, and staying open to learning. Every shift, every conversation, and every mistake is a learning opportunity. 

Hi my name is Darioush Delalat and I am currently finishing up my 4th year of my chiropractic studies at Macquarie University, and my journey into this field was deeply personal. After struggling with chronic health issues and ongoing pain for many years it was chiropractic care that helped me regain my strength and independence. That experience inspired me to help others in the same way. I have a special interest in family chiropractic care – supporting people of all ages, from kids to parents and everyone in between, I truly believe that I can affect people’s lives in a positive way by showing them that movement is the foundation to healthy function. Outside of the clinic, you’ll usually find me outside playing basketball, or relaxing in the sun with a good book.

Darioush Delalat