Clinical Psychologists
Dominique Adams
What is it?
A clinical psychologist is a person who focuses on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Some disorders that might be treated are learning disabilities, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Identify psychological issues
Diagnose psychological disorders
Develop & implement treatment plans
Duties of a clinical psychologist
On the job, a clinical psychologist will identify psychological, emotional or behavioral issues and diagnose psychological, emotional or behavioral disorders. Also, they will develop and implement treatment plans and therapeutic processes. Clinical psychologists help clients define goals and plan action to achieve personal, social, educational and vocational development and adjustment.
What education or certification is needed to become a clinical psychologist?
Earning a four-year undergraduate degree is the first step toward becoming a psychologist. A master’s degree in psychology is needed to enter the field of clinical psychology. This may take one- to-two years to obtain. Many clinical, counseling and research psychologists earn a doctoral degree as well. Doctoral degree programs in clinical psychology typically require an investment of five to six years. Licensing and certification guidelines for psychologists vary by state.
Expected Salary
According to the 2016-17 Occupational Outlook Handbook from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median national annual salary for clinical psychologists is $68,900.