Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology

What is a Clinical Psychologist? 

“Clinical Psychologists are trained to work with individuals of different ages with behavioural, emotional and/or psychological distress which disrupts their everyday functioning and well-being. They aim to reduce distress and to enhance and promote psychological well-being, minimise exclusion and inequalities and enable service users to engage in meaningful relationships and valued work and leisure activities”  NHS England 

What Does a Clinical Psychologist do? 
Clinical Psychologists are trained across the life span and with many different mental health presentations. They can provide support across the full spectrum of need, from maximising mental wellbeing through to treating mental distress. They bring a psychological perspective to a person’s difficulties with the aim of reducing and managing levels of distress and enhancing wellbeing through psychological interventions, such as working with thinking patterns or behaviour. Clinical Psychologists are also research practitioners and are skilled in conducting research, audit, service evaluations. They are also able to undertake leadership and development roles in services and provide training and teaching.  

Qualifications and experience  
In order to qualify as a Clinical Psychologist, you need a minimum of 6 years of university training, including 3 years of an undergraduate psychology degree at a 2:1 or above and a 3 years doctoral training in clinical psychology, leading a psychologist to having a “doctor” title. It is also usual to have completed at least 2-3 years of postgraduate clinical experience before entering the doctorate. Clinical Psychologists are trained by the NHS and the doctorate involves both academic and research as well as clinical placements. Once qualified, clinical psychologists are required to undertake regular training and CPD (continuing professional development) each year to make sure that their skills and knowledge are up to date.   
 
Clinical Psychology is a highly regulated profession   
The title of Clinical Psychologist is legally recognised and reflects only the highest standard of psychological knowledge and expertise. A Clinical Psychologist is a legally protected title which means only those meeting the strict criteria set out by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) may use it. All Clinical Psychologists must be registered with the HCPC.  You can check the HCPC website to ensure your Clinical Psychologist is registered.