While both psychologists and clinical psychologists study the human mind and behavior, there are key differences in their training, scope of practice, and the types of services they provide.
Scope of Practice
- Psychologists generally hold a doctorate in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and can work in a variety of settings, including research, education, and industry. They may focus on specific areas like developmental psychology, social psychology, or cognitive psychology.
- Clinical psychologists also hold a doctorate in psychology, but their focus is on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders. They are licensed to provide therapy and psychological testing.
Training and Licensure
- Psychologists may have different training requirements depending on their specialization and the specific field they work in.
- Clinical psychologists are required to complete a specialized internship and post-doctoral training program in clinical psychology. They must also pass a licensing exam to practice independently.
Services Provided
- Psychologists may conduct research, teach, design assessments, or develop programs to improve mental health and well-being.
- Clinical psychologists provide individual and group therapy, conduct psychological assessments, and administer and interpret psychological tests. They may also provide consultation to other professionals.
Examples
- A psychologist working in a research lab might study the effects of stress on memory.
- A clinical psychologist working in a private practice might provide therapy to individuals struggling with anxiety or depression.
In summary, clinical psychologists are a specialized subset of psychologists who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. They have specific training and licensure requirements that allow them to provide therapeutic services.
