What Is Clinical Psychology?

Clinical psychology is a branch of psychology dealing with mental health, emotional well-being and the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mental illness. Clinical psychologists work with patients to understand their problems and help them cope with their symptoms. Clinical psychologists also deal with research on the causes and treatments of mental illness. Clinical psychologists use a variety of techniques to assess and treat their patients, including administering psychological tests, conducting interviews and participating in therapeutic sessions. Clinical psychology is a relatively new discipline, with the first formal training program being established in the early 1900s. To practice clinical psychology, one must have a doctorate in psychology and be licensed by the state in which he or she practices. Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, private practice and schools. They typically work with patients who have mental disorders such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Because there may be other health care professionals involved in their patient’s treatment plan (such as psychiatrists), clinical psychologists often coordinate their efforts with these other doctors.