What Is A Psychologist And Why Do They Help People?
Psychologist jobs vary widely in scope, with a focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of psychological disorders that affect behaviour and the mental health of individuals. Some psychologists conduct independent research, working with other professionals, meeting with clients, or performing independent casework. Others work as part of a healthcare team, collaborating with doctors and other health care providers, or in educational settings, assisting teachers, students, families, and others.
Psychologists may also work in hospital departments, as consultants, or as employees of mental health facilities. In some medical settings, psychologists are employed full-time in mental health clinics or specialty practices. A few psychologists may choose to work from home, independently, using their computer and internet based consultancy skills. While these psychologists have some of the same professional job duties as those in traditional healthcare settings, most focus more on research.
Most psychologists have a master’s degree in psychology, with additional coursework including research methodology and statistics. There is a stigma associated with this field, as it is often associated with unskilled researchers who work from home, and with unconventional therapies and treatments. However, those psychologists who choose to work in healthcare settings – whether they are in private practice or a part of a larger organisation – are highly skilled and qualified. Graduates may seek positions in public and private medical doctors’ offices, in forensic psychiatric units, in juvenile or geriatric treatment centres, in prisons and in the social services arena. Many psychologists also choose to open their own practices.
Studying for a PhD in Clinical Psychology can be an all-encompassing experience. Students will be given extensive research and coursework in order to complete their dissertations. After graduation, most PhD graduates go on to write books on their topic of choice, start their own practice or establish private consultancies. The majority of psychologists choose to continue their education and training in clinical or counselling psychology.
In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) regulates the practice of psychologists within the UK. A psychologist can work in a variety of NHS facilities, depending on their qualifications and age. Full-time employment is not common for those who have obtained their pay and phd at the same time. As with employment opportunities within the NHS, those who obtain their Psyd and phd simultaneously may have access to more career opportunities than those who obtain their Psyd and phd separately.
In the United States, all psychologists in good standing are required by law to receive yearly re-training in both their area of specialty and in the professional standards that apply to their line of work. Clinical supervision is essential to achieving success as a practicing clinician and supervisor. The training and supervision will help achieve academic and clinical competence. In addition to obtaining both a Psyd and a Phd, a doctorate-level psychology may be required in order to specialize in any area of study.
A doctorate-level psychology is especially tailored to meet the needs of mental health professionals. Courses include core courses in human behavior, cognitive psychology, interpersonal communication and psychology. As well, courses in scientific methodology, descriptive analysis, research methodology and psychological theories are part of the requirements for this degree. Those who earn their Psyd and Phd will be prepared to address long-term mental health issues that span a wide range of disciplines.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression or suffering from a family crisis, a psychologist can help you feel secure about your mental health. Psychologists treat both the physical and mental health issues of their patients. From the common problems associated with anxiety or depression to complex mental disorders such as schizophrenia, psychologists help people deal with the issues that cause their disorder. From simple exercises to medication and from group therapy to psychotherapy, psychologists can help you regain control over your life. Psychologists can access your mind and help you get back to a normal state more quickly than you can do on your own.