Job Analysis for a Clinical Psychologist
By Ashley Miller
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When people have problems that they are unable to handle on their own, they may consult a clinical psychologist for assistance. A clinical psychologist is a licensed mental health professional who helps people with a variety of emotional, social, psychological, and behavioral problems and disorders, like depression, anxiety, relationship issues or adjustment disorders. As of May 2012, clinical psychologists earned an average yearly salary of $72,220, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
To become a clinical psychologist, you must have a doctoral degree in psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology. You can earn either a doctor of psychology or doctor of philosophy in psychology, but some clinical psychologists may opt for the less common doctor of education in psychology. The Ed.D. is awarded by a school of education, but it still allows for professional practice in clinical psychology. If you earn a doctoral degree in psychology in a non-clinical area, you may complete a postdoctoral respecialization program in clinical psychology at certain universities and institutes.
Clinical psychologists almost always need to obtain state licensure to be eligible to practice psychology. Those who practice in specific institutions, such as research laboratories or corporations, may be exempt in certain states. The exact requirements for licensure vary by state but generally include submitting proof of education and experience, passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, or EPPP, completing an average of 2,000 hours of postdoctoral supervised clinical hours and paying a licensing fee. Many clinical psychologists also obtain voluntary board certification from the American Board of Clinical Psychology.
Clinical psychologists provide a broad range of services, such as assessments, evaluations, psychological testing, treatment and consultation. They work directly with individuals, couples, families and groups in a variety of settings, such as private practice, schools, hospitals and mental health clinics, to prevent or treat psychological problems, resolve conflicts, reduce stress and promote mental health. Some clinical psychologists may also be involved in academia and teach at the college or university level. Many also conduct research in the theory and practice of clinical psychology.
To become an effective clinical psychologist, you'll need to have the right personality and skill set for the job. You should have a strong desire to help people in need and a commitment to alleviating psychological suffering. You should be sensitive to your clients' needs, compassionate and patient. It's also important to have excellent communication skills and the ability to maintain professional boundaries. Since you will work with people from all walks of life, you should be competent in multicultural practice and avoid judgment or bias when helping people with diverse backgrounds.
Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2012: 19-3031 Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists
University of Hawaii Manoa: Department of Psychology: Clinical Psychology
American Psychological Association: What You Need to Know to Get Licensed
American Board of Professional Psychology: Clinical Psychology
American Psychological Association, Division 12: Society of Clinical Psychology: About Clinical Psychology
Ashley Miller is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist, certified Reiki practitioner, yoga enthusiast and aromatherapist. She has also worked as an employee assistance program counselor and a substance-abuse professional. Miller holds a Master of Social Work and has extensive training in mental health diagnosis, as well as child and adolescent psychotherapy. She also has a bachelor's degree in music.
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