Should You Become a Clinical Psychologist?

Role: Clinical Psychologist

Minimum Years Training: 6+

Ave. Salary: £35,000

The practice of clinical psychology involves assisting individuals in overcoming obstacles related to their mental health and enhancing their well-being.

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder using a variety of psychological approaches and therapies.

Continue reading to find out more about a career in clinical psychology.

What it entails

The primary responsibilities of a clinical psychologist are the diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. You would collaborate with people of all ages, as well as kids, teenagers, adults, and elderly adults.

To assist them in overcoming their difficulties, you would carry out psychological examinations, create treatment programs, and offer counseling.

To provide coordinated care, you may also collaborate with other medical specialists like psychiatrists, social workers, and occupational therapists.

Who do you work with

Clinical psychologists work with a wide range of people, including those who are dealing with mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression.

Also, you might assist those who are struggling with addiction, trauma, or relationships.

Your patients could come from a variety of socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

Job prospects

Clinical psychologists have generally favorable employment prospects, with a 3% growth rate from 2021 to 2031 forecasted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Clinical psychologists are a crucial component of the healthcare system, and the demand for mental health treatments is rising.

However, there can be fierce competition for positions, and having a doctoral degree is frequently necessary.

Pay and Development

Clinical psychologists’ remuneration may differ based on the environment in which they operate. The median annual salary for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists was $80,370 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, earnings can vary widely based on location, experience, and specialization, from about $45,000 to over $130,000 annually.

Clinical psychologists have the opportunity to advance their careers through continuing education, certification in certain fields of practice, and publication and research possibilities.

Clinical psychologists can move to leadership roles with experiences, such as director of a mental health program or clinic.

Jobs you can pivot to

Clinical psychologists are equipped with a variety of talents that can be used in a variety of contexts. They can switch to different positions like – In academic settings, psychology departments at universities undertake both teaching and research.

Consultancy – Offering knowledgeable guidance on mental health matters to enterprises.
Advocate for better mental health policies and more access to mental health services.

Who It’s Good For

If you love helping people and are curious about how the mind works, a career in clinical psychology is a great fit. 

Although developing trust with patients is a key component of the profession, it is also perfect for those with strong interpersonal and communication abilities. 

This professional path will be lucrative for those with an interest in research and trying out novel treatment methods.

Who It’s Bad For

For those who find it difficult to control their stress levels or maintain a healthy work-life balance, a career in clinical psychology might not be the ideal choice.

Dealing with patients’ strong emotions can be difficult and emotionally taxing work. Also, those who have trouble speaking or don’t love working with others could find this professional choice tough.

Summary

Those who are passionate about helping others and have a deep interest in the mind’s operations can choose a profession as a clinical psychologist.

Working with a variety of people and assisting them in overcoming mental health difficulty is a part of the job.

Clinical psychologists have high employment prospects with room for growth and switching to other positions.

But the work can be extremely taxing, and getting a doctorate is frequently necessary.

Clinical psychology as a whole

If you’re interested in clinical psychology…

You should consider whether psychology is the right degree for you!