Clinical Psychologist
OFO No: 263401
Other names for Clinical Psychologist:
- Clinical Neuropsychologist
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Health Psychologist
- Neuropsychologist
- Psychologist (Child / Comparative / Consultant)
Youtube clip – All about Clinical Psychology Careers
For training options in South Africa – scroll down
What is a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist in a professional mental health specialist. It takes many years of study to become a Clinical Psychologist.
They diagnose and treat children and adults using psychological methods instead of drugs.
Clinical Psychologists may work in private practice, in hospitals, in clinics, for companies, organisations and NGO’s etc.
Some may specialise in certain fields:
- Schizophrenia
- Eating disorders
- Addictions
- Relationship problems
- Depression
- Personality disorders
- Children
- Research etc
What does a Clinical Psychologist do?
- meets with the patient and sets them at ease
- asks very specific questions
- listens to the patient very carefully
- makes notes
- designs specific non-drug treatments for patient
- monitors the results
- keeps detailed records
Are you . . . ?
- interested in helping others?
- patient and understanding?
- a good listener?
- a logical thinker?
- a good communicator?
- able to handle stress?
- a person with good people skills?
- intelligent?
How do I become a Clinical Psychologist?
PATH 1
- Bachelor with a major in Psychology which can be done at most SA Universities
- Honours in Psychology – Can be done at some SA Universities
- Masters in Clinical Psychology – Can be done at most SA Universities
- 12 month, full time internship under a registered Psychologist
- National Examination of the Professional Board of Psychology
- Designation: Only now may you use the title Professional Clinical Psychologist
- 12 months of community service as a Clinical Psychologist
PATH 2
- Bachelor of Psychology (Clinical / Psychotherapy)
- Masters in Clinical Psychology – Can be done at most SA Universities
- 12 month, full time internship under a registered Psychologist
- National Examination of the Professional Board of Psychology
- Designation: Only now may you use the title Professional Clinical Psychologist
- 12 months of community service as a Clinical Psychologist
HEALTH PROFESSIONS COUNCIL OF SOUTH AFRICA: HPCSA
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Pharmacist or Occupational Therapist
Is becoming a Clinical Psychologist the right career choice for me?
