Psychologist

A psychologist is a scientist or clinician who practices in, or studies, the human mind and behavior. Broadly speaking, psychologists are mental health professionals. Psychologists employ their expertise in fields such as health and human services, management, education, law and sports.

Clinical psychologists make up the largest proportion of psychologists. These practitioners assist persons with mental or emotional health difficulties, such as persons with a medical or surgical illness or injury, or those experiencing a personal crisis such as divorce or death.

Psychologists typically interview patients and administer and interpret diagnostic tests. Based on the assessment, a psychologist will develop and implement a treatment or intervention program. Often, psychologists will work in concert with a healthcare team.

Training typically involves the acquisition of a graduate degree. For certain types of practice settings, such as industrial-organizational sites, a Master's degree is sufficient. However, a doctoral degree is the usual requirement.

In North America, the title of psychologist is a protected title. In order to be a psychologist, one must hold a doctoral degree and meet licensing requirements. Only these persons are entitled to perform psychotherapy, a collection of techniques based on communication and dialogue designed to improve the mental health of an individual. Generally, psychologists are not permitted to prescribe medications.

Psychologists may specialize in a particular area of interest. Common specialties include health psychology, neuropsychology, and geropsychology. Work settings for psychologists are varied. Some work primarily as researchers or faculty at universities or other research-intensive institutions. Other settings include hospitals, clinics, schools, correctional facilities, and public or private offices.