How to become a Clinical Psychologist

There are a variety of specialities available to people who are interested in pursuing a career in psychological science. Clinical psychology is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental or emotional illnesses, as well as the implementation of therapeutic approaches to assist patients in coping and improving. Investigating clinical psychology and the roles played by clinical psychologists can help you evaluate if you want to pursue clinical psychology as a specialisation or whether you want to pursue other fascinating choices. The scientific understanding of psychopathology and psychotherapy is used by clinical psychologists in the assessment and treatment of mental health difficulties, both emotional and behavioural.

They have received significant training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental diseases, as well as in the provision of psychological intervention for mental health concerns of clinical severity. Anxiety, sadness, cognitive difficulties, developmental abnormalities, and learning impairments are just a few of the concerns that might arise. In addition to assisting clients with short-term concerns, clinical psychologists may also help clients with chronic disorders that affect one`s ability to function in the areas of emotional, social, and occupational functioning.

In addition to consulting with medical specialists such as psychiatrists to create the optimal strategy for their clients, they do not prescribe medicine themselves. They work hard to establish a strong therapeutic relationship with their client to support them in managing their symptoms and functioning appropriately, respectively. Depending on a clinical psychologist`s theoretical orientation and preferred way of understanding mental diseases, the specific techniques of therapy that they apply will vary significantly.

The core responsibilities of a clinical psychologist include:

• Identify and diagnose behavioural, psychological, emotional issues or disorders 
• Formulate treatment plans targeted at alleviating mental distress, symptom management, and adaptive coping
• Administer, score, and interpret psychological tests and assessments
• Conduct therapy sessions to assist the clients to improve their mental, social, and emotional functioning 
• Conduct psychoeducation sessions for the client and/or their caregivers
• Collaborate with the client to define goals and set clear expectations about the therapy process
• Maintain adequate documentation of each case
• Supervise interns and junior mental health professionals
• Routinely evaluate client's progress through the sessions by maintaining session notes and progress notes

Here are seven essential talents for clinical psychologists:

1. Empathy and compassion - Empathy and compassion are the capacity to understand another's feelings and envisage having a comparable experience. Empathy and compassion are social skills that enable individuals to understand and learn from others from various backgrounds or life experiences. As a clinical psychologist, you are likely to be asked about your history, relationships, and issues. Encouraging positive behavioural change requires empathy, compassion, and connection.
2. Problem-solving skills -  Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are the ability to utilise logic, reason, and creativity to solve difficulties.Clinical psychologists must understand emotional and behavioural issues as well as psychological ideas. Applying knowledge and problem-solving abilities to behavioural, emotional, or mental issues is crucial.
3. Responsibility and ethics - Clinical psychologists are bound by a code of ethics in their work and treatment of patients. Because of their employment, psychologists have access to sensitive information and must protect their patients' privacy and safety.  When doing research, studies, or publishing results, psychologists must acquire consent from their patients. They must also establish healthy and ethical patient-doctor interactions.
4. Organization and agility - Workplace organisation and detail describe a person's ability to arrange and classify information quickly and accurately.  As a psychologist, you'll need to keep meticulous notes, fill out forms, and organise files. Schedules, appointments, and treatment plans must also be managed. Their efficiency and secrecy depend on their organisation. They must also be meticulous when drafting reports, devising treatment plans and completing papers or insurance paperwork.
5. Keen intellect Psychologists obtain data through observing -  To appropriately remark on research findings, they must be able to link and correlate differences in behaviours, treatments, and emotions. They must also be able to observe and respond to patient needs. The capacity to be alert while making clinical observations also aids in the diagnosing process.
6. Listening actively  - Active listening is a social and professional skill that enhances communication and relationships.It requires attentive listening, paraphrasing, compassion, and empathy. A psychologist's active listening skills will help them better grasp their clients' lives, situations, and issues. Here are six things to do when someone is speaking to guarantee active listening: Pay attention to the speaker's words. Notice how they move. Don't make personal judgements. Interpret a person's mood. Consider what has been stated and clarify with questions. Consolatory or summarising comments to the speaker.
7. Writing and speaking -  They employ written and spoken communication to create reports, treatment plans and track patient progress. It's vital that they can express themselves effectively so that insurance companies and other medical professionals obtain accurate information. Psychologists often provide criticism and guidance to their patients. A good verbal communicator can readily comprehend their instructions or assistance.

The salary of a "Clinical Psychologist" can vary based on factors such as experience, location, level of education, type of employer, and the setting in which they work.

• Minimum Monthly Salary: The monthly salary can be from INR 30,000 to INR 50,000
• Maximum Monthly Salary: The monthly salary can be from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000 or more
• Annual Salary: The annual salary can be from INR 3,60,000 to INR 30,00,000 or more.
• Highest Paying Job and Scope: The highest paying job for a Clinical Psychologist is often in private practice, where they have established a successful practice with a steady client base. The scope for Clinical Psychologists is promising as mental health awareness and the need for psychological services continue to grow. They work in various settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, rehabilitation centers, universities, schools, government agencies, and private practices.

To enroll into a Master's or MPhil program in Clinical Psychology it is essential for the aspiring candidate to clear entrance exam conducted by various private institutes. Also, to enroll in MPhil in Clinical Psychology program it is essential for aspiring candidates to clear UGC NET. Many reputed colleges or universities conduct their own entrance exam and personal interview and academic performance for their selection.

• Social Service
• Prisons
• Government Hospitals
• Psychiatric Centers
• Clinics and Health Centers
• Research Institute and Medical Colleges
• Community Mental Health Centers
• Rehabilitation Centers
• Schools and Colleges