Clinical psychologist
Clinical psychologists help people manage mental health issues, phobias and addiction.
- Starter salary£49,000 a year
- Experienced£65,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 39 a week
What you'll do
As a clinical psychologist, you'll:
- work out what your client needs using interviews, tests and observations
- decide on appropriate treatments, such as therapy or counselling
- work closely with medical professionals like other doctors
- write reports and act as an expert witness in court
- go to conferences and keep up to date with developments in the field
- develop research projects to improve understanding of conditions and how best to treat them
Working environment
You could work in an NHS or private hospital, at a client's home, at a university or at a health centre.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of psychology
- counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
- the ability to understand people's reactions
- sensitivity and understanding
- analytical thinking skills
- active listening skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a clinical psychologist
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
University
The first step is to study for a degree in psychology accredited by The British Psychological Society .
If you have a degree in a subject other than psychology, you can apply for an accredited conversion course .
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 3 A levels or equivalent
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Clinical Associate in Psychology Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
As a qualified clinical associate, you could apply for graduate membership of The British Psychological Society.
You would work within the field you trained for under the supervision of a registered clinical psychologist.
You would also continue with further postgraduate doctorate training (DClinPsych) to become a clinical psychologist.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a degree in a relevant subject
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks as you may work with children and vulnerable adults
Career path and progression
With experience and further training, you could:
- specialise working with certain people, such as children or young offenders
- specialise in clinical neuropsychology
- move into research or teach at a university
- work as a freelance consultant, advising other professionals and clients
- set up your own psychology practice
Professional and industry bodies
You can join The British Psychological Society for professional development and training opportunities.
Registration
- you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council
Guides for this industry
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