Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Clinical and counselling psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests. They help individuals with distress or maladjustment understand their problems through their knowledge of case history, interviews with patients, and theory. They also provide individual or group counselling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development and adjustment. Moreover, they design behaviour modification programs and consult with medical personnel regarding the best treatment for patients.
How to become a clinical psychologist? To become one, focus on the emotional, social, work, school and physical health concerns of people at different stages in their lives, focusing on life stresses and more severe issues with which people may struggle as individuals and as a part of families, groups and organizations. Clinical psychology is one of the largest speciality areas within psychology which deals with the treatment of mental, emotional and behavioural disorders.
Clinical psychologists and psychology counsellors find jobs typically in the arena of healthcare- hospitals, private practices, psychotherapy centres, nursing centres, and mental health facilities. Some psychologists work in academic settings as professors and researchers.
How to become a counselling psychologist? Honing a solid set of essential skills makes for an effective, successful psychology counsellor. Besides knowing psychological theory and practice, it is essential that they should be interested in how people think and behave, thereby being able to relate and empathise with them. Moreover, good research, communication and team working skills are an added advantage.
To be successful as a clinical psychologist, one should have a passion for discovery, learning and listening and questioning. The clinical psychologist's salary depends on various factors such as seniority level, experience, location and skills.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Clinical Psychology
- M.Sc. Clinical Psychology
- B.Sc. Psychology
Tasks
- Collect information about individuals or clients, using interviews, case histories, observational techniques, and other assessment methods.
- Counsel individuals, groups, or families to help them understand problems, deal with crisis situations, define goals, and develop realistic action plans.
- Document patient information including session notes, progress notes, recommendations, and treatment plans.
- Interact with clients to assist them in gaining insight, defining goals, and planning action to achieve effective personal, social, educational, or vocational development and adjustment.
- Develop therapeutic and treatment plans based on clients' interests, abilities, or needs.
- Identify psychological, emotional, or behavioral issues and diagnose disorders, using information obtained from interviews, tests, records, or reference materials.
- Use a variety of treatment methods, such as psychotherapy, hypnosis, behavior modification, stress reduction therapy, psychodrama, or play therapy.
- Write reports on clients and maintain required paperwork.
- Consult with or provide consultation to other doctors, therapists, or clinicians regarding patient care.
- Obtain and study medical, psychological, social, and family histories by interviewing individuals, couples, or families and by reviewing records.
Progression Routes
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