What is a Clinical Psychologist?
“Clinical psychologists deal with a wide range of mental and physical health problems including addiction, anxiety, depression, learning difficulties and relationship issues.
Clinical psychology aims to reduce psychological distress and to enhance the promotion of psychological wellbeing.”
MAKING SENSE OF DIFFICULTIES
A Clinical Psychologist places importance of gathering information about current difficulties using a range of sources. These can include observations, psychometric tests, questionnaires and open discussions.
During therapy a Clinical Psychologist will work with an individual to develop a formulation to summarise current difficulties, to understand causes and to make sense of these. A focus on past difficulties and experiences can be helpful to include if these are relevant to the present. Importance is placed on also acknowledging strengths and resources.
This is a collaborative process which is informed by clinical theory and evidence.
A formulation of current difficulties helps to develop a treatment plan or road map to guide intervention.
APPROACHES
A Clinical Psychologist is trained in a number of psychological approaches which they can draw on during psychological assessments or interventions. When working with clients Clinical Psychologists will often draw from several therapy models to help gain a joint understanding of current difficulties and to help an individual achieve their therapy goals.
They will draw on scientific knowledge to bring about positive change. They will also ensure that all treatment offered is evidence-based.
Therapy approaches can include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)
Schema Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
Systemic Therapy
QUALIFICATIONS
The journey to qualify as a registered Clinical Psychologist can take between 6-9 years.
A Clinical Psychologist must have completed an undergraduate degree in psychology which can take 3 years (full-time) and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (3 years) which is accredited by the British Psychology Society (BPS).
They may have also completed a Master degree in clinical psychology and worked in NHS settings to gain clinical experience before beginning the doctorate course.
During the Doctorate course a Clinical Psychologist will work in the NHS over 6 placements in different settings such as adult, older adult, child and adolescent and inpatient. They also complete specialist placements such as neuropsychology, clinical health, psychosis or eating disorders. As well as clinical work they will complete academic work which includes a thesis.
Clinical Psychologists will complete regular training and CPD to ensure knowledge and skills are kept up to date in line.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST, PSYCHIATRIST, COUNSELLOR AND PSYCHOTHERAPIST
A Clinical Psychologist completes comprehensive training in understanding and treating individuals of all ages and clinical presentations. They are scientific practitioners to draw on clinical theory and evidence to inform interventions are effective. They are trained in multiple theories/approaches which helps to guide therapy and other interventions. They will focus on addressing whole system problems at family, education, community and institutional levels.
A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor that has specialised in mental health. They can make a diagnosis and help to develop a management plan for treatment. They can also prescribe medication as well as making recommendations for treatment. They can work alongside Clinical Psychologists when an individual is engaging in therapy and taking medication.
A counsellor helps individuals with a range of emotional difficulties. They will often encourage an individual to look at their choices and find their own way to make a positive change. A counsellor is more likely to help with a specific difficulty or current issue such as addiction or bereavement.
A psychotherapist might be trained in one or more approaches such as CBT, psychotherapy or psychoanalytic. Psychotherapists help individuals to overcome stress, emotional and relationship issues. A psychotherapist may be a psychiatrist or other mental health professional, who has had further specialist training in psychotherapy.