Information on Careers in Clinical Psychology
A clinical psychologist diagnoses and treats mental disorders, and may provide individual, family or group therapy. Clinical psychology is the largest specialty within the field of psychology, which is the study of human behavior. Psychologists observe and record how people relate to each other using scientific principles or procedures. Clinical psychologists treat severe mental disorders, such as schizophrenia, as well as everyday stress.
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Education and Training
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A bachelor's degree in psychology is the first step toward becoming a clinical psychologist and will allow you to assist practicing psychologists. Acceptance at graduate school is very competitive. To become a clinical psychologist, a minimum of a master's degree is usually required. Working in private practice usually requires a doctoral degree, which takes about five years of graduate study. Becoming a clinical psychologist typically requires an additional year of supervised experience. The American Psychological Association accredits doctoral programs in clinical psychology.
Licensure
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Psychologists who offer patient care are required to meet licensing or certification requirements in all states. Laws for obtaining a license vary from one state to the next. Licensing exams may consist of a written test which is sometimes supplemented with oral exams or essays. Continuing education is required in some states for renewal of license. The American Board of Professional Psychology awards specialty certification in recognition of professional achievement in certain fields, including clinical psychology.
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Benefits And Salary
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The benefits of becoming a clinical psychologist include the satisfaction of helping people overcome problems, along with the challenge of coming up with creative solutions to problems. Clinical psychology careers offer opportunities for self-employment and the ability to be your own boss and set your own hours. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), median salary for psychologists is approximately $64,000. Wages range from approximately $38,000 to more than $106,000.
Specializations
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Clinical psychology careers offer many opportunities for specialization. Neuropsychologists are clinical psychologists who work with people who have had a head trauma or stroke. Some clinical psychologists specialize in working with children or adolescents while others work exclusively with elderly patients. Some specialize in particular behavior problems, such as substance abuse or learning disabilities, while others specialize in teaching or research.
Considerations
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Careers in clinical psychology are set in hospitals or private practice. Clinical psychologists are not usually allowed to prescribe medication. When medication is needed, clinical psychologists work closely with physicians. According to the BLS, two states allow clinical psychologists to prescribe medications: New Mexico and Louisiana.
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References
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