Overview
Clinical psychologists communicate and interact with clients to assist them in managing their psychological conditions and mental health issues. These can include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse and eating disorders. Clinical psychologists also help clients to understand and process their own thoughts and feelings, build resilience and cope with challenges.
Work activities take place in consulting rooms or suites, or can be based in schools, hospitals, mental health or addiction clinics and other community centres.
Suits people who are caring, have strong active listening skills, social perceptiveness and emotional intelligence. The ability to build rapport and trust in client relationships is important.
Day-to-day
- assess client cognitive, behavioural and emotional issues
- administer and interpret diagnostic tests and formulate plans for treatment
- develop, administer and evaluate individual and group treatment programs
- consult with other professionals on details of cases and treatment plans
- provide care in a way that relieves the psychological distress and suffering of patients.
Considerations
- Stressful
To become a Clinical Psychologist
Formal qualifications are required: a degree in psychology or diploma in psychological science with honours, followed by a masters degree or two years supervised experience with a registered psychologist.
Find a Bachelor of Psychology
Registration with the Psychology Board of Australia is essential.
Skills employers are looking for
