Clinical Psychologist Job Description

There are times when one is faced with a situation or some circumstances when the comforting hugs and conversation with friends and family don't seem to solve the problem. This is when a psychologist lends his/her ears to our problems. Clinical psychologist are trained for this kind of work. A clinical psychologist's job description requires him to look into matter objectively and treat the person accordingly.

The journey to become a clinical psychologist is one which is completed after a lot of hard work and dedication. Before we begin with careers in clinical psychology, we must know that to be a clinical psychologist, one must be a sound person who can think objectively and not be biased. One must be brave enough to guide another person who is going through a difficult phase in his/her life.

A day in a clinical psychologist would consist of meeting clients, having psychotherapy sessions with them, listening to their ills and woes without being judgmental and giving them the right treatment. They also work with institutes like schools and hospitals. They must be skilled to listen well and catch on the undercurrent of the conversation and diagnose the problem. They also have to discuss the available method of treatment with the patient.

Education

Before one can take the responsibility of another life in one's own hand, a clinical psychologist has to train and sharpen his skills. One has to put in around 5 to 7 years into graduation studies. There are various colleges and universities that provide degrees in psychology.

If one wants to open a private practice, then a doctorate is a must. Ph.D holders usually work with institutes like schools, mental institutions and contribute in teaching and research. Individuals with a masters in psychology work as school councilors and usually work under a Ph.D or psychology doctorate holder. This requires two years of study time. A bachelor's degree holder works as an assistant with correctional facilities. A year's internship is also a must to be a clinical psychologist. Also to open a private practice, one must be certified or licensed.

Job Description

The duties and responsibilities of a clinical psychologist require him/her to put in minimum of 40 hours of work a week. The job also requires him/her to keep abreast with the latest changes in the field of psychology. As mentioned above, a psychologist have to talk and listen to patients who are suffering setbacks in their lives due to psychological issues that's troubling them. These can range from addictions, mental illnesses, stress or even marriage or divorce related issues. He/she must give sound advice and respect professional secrecy while dealing with his/her clients. Clinical psychologists provide individual or group psychotherapy and help mentally or emotionally challenged people settle back into the society.

Salary Range

Clinical psychologists earn well and they lead a comfortable lifestyle. The salary starts from $59,000 to $78,000 annually. Those who are working with health care institutes like hospitals can earn about $63,000 annually and those who are working with correctional facilities earn about $55,000. A well established clinical psychologist can easily earn more than $75,000 annually.

By reading this article, you must have realized that this profession requires serious commitment and a heart that is willing to listen and help without being affected by what is being discussed. For this, emotional detachment from the patient is required in this job. If this is your calling, then follow it with all your passion. Years down the line, you will be a satisfied human being who achieved what he/she had set his/her heart on.