What does a clinical psychologist do: How is it different to a psychiatrist or a therapist?

This is a question I am often asked when I tell people what I do for a living.  Although not quite as often as “can you read my mind?”.  I wish I had that power but sadly haven’t discovered it yet, disappointing after all those years of training!

Clinical psychologists are often thought of as therapists but this is just one string to our bow.  Many therapists (e.g. CBT therapists) draw on one main therapeutic model.  Clinical psychologists usually have core training in at least three models at doctorate level.  For me this was Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Systemic and Psychodynamic approaches.  After qualifying many clinical psychologists continue to train in their own unique blend of therapies, many with a three-letter acronym.  CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) to name just a few.

Aside from direct therapy there is a lot of indirect work and consultation.  There are meetings, many meetings and even meetings about meetings.  If you are lucky you might squeeze in some reflective practise.  Teaching, training and supervising others is essential for the future of the profession.  Not forgetting your own supervision and CPD.  It feels like you are juggling a lot of balls and it’s hard to work out which one to drop at times. I often remind myself what is important.  What it was that drew me to the profession in the beginning.  That is the amazing and resilient clients and service users we work with. The meeting about the meeting can wait!

How is a clinical psychologist different to a psychiatrist?  From a training perspective, psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialised in mental health.  They can prescribe medication whereas clinical psychologists cannot.  Clinical psychologists have usually studied a degree followed by a doctorate in psychology.  The interventions clinical psychologists provide to clients as mentioned are psychological therapies.  There are many differences and similarities in the roles and we often work closely together in multi-disciplinary teams.

Thinking about therapy with a clinical psychologist?  Contact Dr Emma for an initial consultation today….