Clinical Psychologists are highly trained professionals who provide help to people who are experiencing difficulties with their emotional or mental health and who want to make positive changes in their life. A Clinical Psychologist has an undergraduate degree and doctoral level training in more than one therapy. Their training takes at least seven years and involves supervised practice with clients of all ages and includes clinical and research training and academic study.
Clinical Psychologists use talking therapies to help people understand their difficulties and how they can make changes to improve how they are feeling. They use the current research to identify the most effective psychological interventions. Clinical Psychologists support people to understand the impact of past experiences on their current situation, consider anything that may be keeping the problem going and identify and develop skills and resources in order to achieve positive change.
Clinical Psychologists are not medically trained so do not prescribe medication. This would be offered by a GP or Psychiatrist.
Clinical Psychologists must register with the HCPC in order to practice and must adhere to their high levels of education, training and professional conduct. Titles such as “Psychologist”, “Counsellor”, “Psychotherapist” or “Therapist” are not protected by law so they can be used by anyone with any level of training or experience.
