Course Description
Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology concerned with the assessment and treatment of mental illness, abnormal behavior, and psychiatric problems. This field integrates the science of psychology with the treatment of complex human problems, making it an exciting career choice for people who are looking to work in a challenging and rewarding field.Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings (hospitals, clinics, private practice, universities, schools, etc.) and in many capacities. All of them require these professionals to draw on their expertise in special ways and for different purposes.Some of the job roles performed by those working in clinical psychology can include:
- Assessment and diagnosis of psychological disorders, such as in a medical setting
- Treatment of psychological disorders, including drug and alcohol addiction
- Offering testimony in legal settings
- Teaching, often at the university level
- Conducting research
- Creating and administering programs to treat and prevent social problems
Some clinical psychologists may focus on one of these or provide several of these services. For example, someone may work directly with clients who are admitted to a hospital for psychological disorders, while also running a private therapeutic office that offers short-term and long-term outpatient services to those who need help coping with psychological distress.
