Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology is a specialty within psychology that provides ongoing and comprehensive mental and behavioral health services. This specialty is broad in scope and addresses many kinds of mental and behavioral health concerns, drawing on knowledge and skills from different areas within psychology and related fields. Clinical psychology serves people across all stages of life and in different settings.

Problems Addressed

Clinical psychology focuses on behavioral and mental health difficulties that may occur throughout life, including:

• Adjustment difficulties and reactions to traumatic stress
• Emotional and psychological problems
• Personality-related conditions and thought disorders
• Interpersonal and social difficulties
• Intellectual, cognitive, and neurological conditions

The Difference Between a Clinical Psychologist and a Psychiatrist

Both clinical psychologists and psychiatrists work in the field of mental health, but they differ in their approach to practice and treatment.

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose and treat mental health disorders through psychotherapy sessions, medications, and other medical interventions related to mental health. Psychiatrists have the authority to prescribe medications and perform certain medical procedures.
• Clinical psychologists are professionals who have advanced degrees in psychology. They cannot prescribe medications, but they provide comprehensive care that helps individuals cope with their psychological difficulties:

Psychological treatment involves a variety of strategies aimed at improving mental health and overall quality of life, including:

• Psychological assessment through interviews and testing to identify problems and develop an appropriate treatment plan
• Psychotherapy sessions to develop coping skills and manage emotions
• Practical strategies to support positive thinking and problem-solving
• Monitoring progress and adjusting the treatment plan according to individual needs