CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY
Clinical Psychology is an important and popular applied branch of Psychology. It is concerned with the assessment and treatment of mental illness, abnormal behaviour, and psychiatric problems. American Psychological Association defines it as, “the psychological specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive mental and behavioural health care for individuals and families; consultation to agencies and communities; training, education and supervision; and research-based practice. The central aspects of clinical psychology include Psychological assessment and psychotherapy (research, teaching, consultation, forensic testimony, program development and administration). It focuses on the intellectual, emotional, biological, psychological, social and behavioural aspects of human functioning across the life span, in varying cultures, and at all socioeconomic levels.
Historical Background
The term Clinical psychology was first used in an article by Lightner Witmer (1867–1956), a psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania. He opened the first psychological clinic in 1896 with a specific focus on helping children who had learning disabilities.
Clinical psychology became more established during the period of World War I as practitioners demonstrated the usefulness of psychological assessments. In 1917, the American Association of Clinical Psychology was established, although it was replaced just two years later with the establishment of the American Psychological Association (APA). During World War II, clinical psychologists were called upon to help treat what was then known as shell shock, now referred to as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Some of the major theoretical perspectives within clinical psychology include psychodynamic approach (Sigmund Freud), cognitive behavioural approach, family systems approach and humanistic approach (Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow). Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, private practice, universities, schools, etc. and in many capacities.
Educational Requirements
For becoming a clinical psychologist, students need a master’s degree to enter the field. Learners looking to practice general psychological therapy may choose to study clinical psychology basics, while others may select a specialty and continue their education with a specific focus. Psychologists often need a Ph.D. or Psy.D. to advance to the top of the industry or work in private practice. Aspiring clinical psychologists should strongly consider completing an internship or practicum during their program.
Career prospects of clinical psychology include case worker, child protection worker, behaviour analyst, director of volunteer services, substance abuse counsellor, psychiatric technician, social worker, mental health counsellor, social worker, marriage and family therapist, art therapist, psychometrist, clinical and counselling psychologist.
Clinical Psychologist
A Clinical Psychologist is a Doctor who holds a Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D.) or a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (Ph.D.). A Clinical Psychologist has spent at least 5-6 years of doctoral graduate work strictly studying psychology, including 5 years of clinical experience assessing and treating patients under supervision, then moving on to complete 1-2 years of internship assessing and treating patients under supervision, followed by an additional 1-2 years of Post-Doctoral Fellowships before qualifying for the right to sit for the licensing examination. They do not prescribe medication, instead, provide psychotherapy through their in-depth knowledge of psychological theory, research and diagnostic testing. Clinical Psychologists also specialize in psychological testing and are the only group of clinicians trained to do so.
A clinical psychologist assesses clients' mental health through psychological assessment and testing, and providing appropriate interventions. In addition to these primary activities, they sometimes conduct research and act as consultants.
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