Clinical psychologist: Job description

Clinical psychologists aim to reduce the distress and improve the psychological
wellbeing of clients. They use psychological methods and research to make positive changes
to their clients' lives and offer various forms of treatment.Clinical psychologists often work
alongside other professionals in multidisciplinary teams in order to deal with complex patient
problems.
They work with clients of all ages on a variety of different mental or physical health
problems including:

depression and anxiety;

mental illness, adjustment to physical illness;

neurological disorders;

addictive or challenging behaviours;

eating disorders;

personal and family relationship problems;

learning disabilities.

Typical work activities

Clinical psychologists tend to work with one particular client group, such as children or
people with learning disabilities. They also often work in a particular setting, for example a
hospital or through social services.
Tasks can include:

assessing a client's needs, abilities or behaviour using a variety of methods,

including psychometric tests, interviews and direct observation of behaviour;

working as part of a multidisciplinary team alongside doctors, nurses, social

workers, education professionals, health visitors, psychiatrists and occupational
therapists;

devising and monitoring appropriate treatment programmes, including

therapy, counselling or advice, in collaboration with colleagues;

offering therapy and treatments for difficulties relating to mental health problems such
as anxiety, depression, addiction, social and interpersonal problems and
challenging behaviour;

providing consultation to other professions, encouraging a psychological approach

in their work;

counselling and supporting carers;

The following are just a few places where they can be found:

Private clinics

Mental health hospitals or facilities

Hospitals and physician clinics

Prisons and correctional facilities

Veterans hospitals and other military support clinics (Government agencies)