A psychologist can be a valuable resource for helping you address and treat mental health or behavioral concerns. However, the field can be complicated and requires years of education and hands-on experience.
Psychologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals and clinics, schools and universities, community organizations, and businesses and industry. Some psychologists also choose to work independently.
Education and Training
In the United States, you must earn a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and pass a state licensing exam to become a psychologist. Licensing requirements vary by state, but most require a doctorate and a minimum of 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. Some states also require a jurisprudence exam and additional training in certain specializations, such as clinical psychology and forensic psychology.
A supervised internship or practicum is an important step in your psychology career because it helps you transition from student to practitioner. During your internship, you’ll start applying theory to real cases and gain hands-on experience under the supervision of an experienced clinical psychologist. This is the time to refine your skills and determine your future career path.
Psychologists often earn board certification in their specialty, which adds credibility to their resumes and can help them stand out to employers. This requires extra training and an exam, but it’s a great way to demonstrate your commitment to your field.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a term that describes a variety of behavioral therapies that are designed to treat psychological problems. These issues may include depression, anxiety, addictions, fears and panic, problems in relationships, eating disorders, physical pain or a general sense of not feeling right.
Psychotherapists are trained to understand your unique experiences and perspectives, but they will also provide you with tools that you can use in your daily life to address your concerns. They will likely ask you to practice between sessions and may role play or give homework assignments to help you learn to change your behavior.
Psychologist’s take confidentiality very seriously, and they will not share your information with anyone without your consent. This includes other medical professionals, friends and family members. However, it’s also important to know that a psychologist can’t keep you safe from harm or other dangers if you don’t follow their advice or instructions between sessions. This is why it’s often important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable.
Research
Psychologists study the relationship between brain function and behavior in both humans and nonhuman animals. They conduct scientific research to identify patterns that might better explain behavior and help people live a happier, healthier life.
They may use cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, humanistic or psychodynamic therapy to help patients deal with emotional problems and improve mental health. They also work with physicians and psychiatrists on overall treatment plans for patients.
Some psychologists specialize in areas such as counseling, industrial-organizational or forensic psychology. Forensic psychologists, for example, apply psychological knowledge to legal and judicial issues. They may testify as experts in court cases, perform child custody evaluations and provide psychotherapy to crime victims.
Psychologists who focus on research develop tools and methods that can be used by scientists and others to understand human behavior. They may also study how brain disease and injury impact behavior. They often work in universities or government research departments. They also may be consultants to companies or business organizations.
Counseling
Psychologists can help people cope with life’s problems, such as dealing with depression or anxiety. They can also provide counseling and psychotherapy to improve relationships.
Counseling psychologists may help clients cope with life changes or difficulties, such as the loss of a job or divorce, and teach them healthy coping skills. They can also help people overcome problems that stem from childhood experiences, such as bullying or abuse.
Psychologists must have good communication and leadership skills to effectively work with groups and individuals, Dougherty says. They must also have cultural competence and empathy to support people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Psychologists often conduct assessments and tests to gain a better understanding of their patients. These can include a mental health assessment, interview questions or psychological tests to diagnose conditions. They may also give clients reading assignments or homework to complete between sessions. They can also request records from previous psychologists or other healthcare providers to help them make a diagnosis.