Psychology 101

The field of mental health has grown tremendously over the past few decades. As a result, patients today have more treatment options available to them than ever before. It is not surprising, however, that many patients considering therapy are confused about their choices. Patients: do not blame yourselves! We as mental health professionals do not do a good job at explaining what psychology is, what psychologists do, and what your treatment choices are!

So, what is Clinical Psychology?¹

The field of Clinical Psychology aims to bring together research and practice in order to understand, predict, and relieve maladjustment, disability, and discomfort as well as to promote human adaptation, adjustment, and personal development. Clinical Psychology focuses on the cognitive, behavioral, emotional, interpersonal, and biological aspects of human functioning across the life span, in varying cultures, and at all socioeconomic levels.

What do Clinical Psychologists do?

Clinical Psychologists who are educated and trained in "scientist-practitioner" or "practitioner-scholar" models generate and integrate scientific and professional knowledge and skills so as to further psychological science, the professional practice of psychology, and human welfare.

Clinical Psychologists are involved in research, teaching and supervision, program development and evaluation, consultation, public policy, professional practice, and other activities that promote psychological health in individuals, families, groups, and organizations. Their work can range from prevention and early intervention of minor problems of adjustment to dealing with individuals whose disturbances requires them to be institutionalized.

Practitioners of Clinical Psychology work directly with individuals at all developmental levels (infants to older adults), using different treatment modalities (organizational interventions, groups of patients with similar symptoms, family therapy, couples therapy, and individual therapy) and a wide range of assessment and intervention methods, in order to promote mental health and to relieve discomfort and maladjustment.

Researchers study the theory and practice of Clinical Psychology, and through their publications, provide an empirical basis for clinicians to use in their treatments. In addition, consultants, teachers, and clinical supervisors share their knowledge of Clinical Psychology with students, other professionals, and non-professionals. Clinical Psychologists also engage in program development, evaluate Clinical Psychology service delivery systems, and analyze, develop, and implement public policy on all areas relevant to the field of Clinical Psychology. Many Clinical Psychologists combine these activities.

Assessment in Clinical Psychology involves determining the nature, causes, and potential effects of personal distress; of personal, social, and work dysfunctions; and the psychological factors associated with physical, behavioral, emotional, nervous, and mental disorders. Examples of assessment procedures are: interviews, behavioral assessments, and the administration and interpretation of tests of intellectual abilities, aptitudes, personal characteristics, and other aspects of human experience and behavior relative to disturbance.

Interventions in Clinical Psychology are directed at preventing, treating, and correcting emotional conflicts, personality disturbances, psychopathology, and the skill deficits underlying human distress or dysfunction. Examples of intervention techniques include cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, marital and family therapy, group therapy, biofeedback, social learning approaches, and environmental consultation and design. The goal of intervention is to promote satisfaction, adaptation, social order, and health.

Where do Clinical Psychologists work?

Clinical Psychologists work throughout the world in a variety of settings including individual (private) practice, mental health service units, managed healthcare organizations, hospitals, schools, universities, industries, legal systems, medical systems, counseling centers, governmental agencies, and military services.

What qualifies someone do practice Clinical Psychology?

An earned doctorate from a Clinical Psychology program represents the basic entry level for the provision of Clinical Psychology services. Unique to Clinical Psychology training is the requirement of substantial course work in the areas of personality and psychopathology, resulting in comprehensive understanding of normal and abnormal adjustment and maladjustment across the life span.

The American Psychological Association sets the standards for Clinical Psychology graduate programs and recognizes programs meeting these standards through an accreditation process. All states require a license to practice Clinical Psychology.

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¹ The information on this page was adapted from the website for Division 12 (Clinical Psychology) of the American Psychological Association.