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Psychology vocabulary · Therapy and Counselling

Clinical psychologist

Meaning in psychology, with examples

nounCore term

In psychology, clinical psychologist means: A psychologist with postgraduate training in assessing and treating mental health problems through psychological methods, usually working in health services or private practice.

In Turkish: klinik psikolog, uzman klinik psikolog

How it is used

A protected title in many countries, with set training routes such as a clinical doctorate in the UK or a PhD or PsyD in the US. Clinical psychologists assess, formulate, deliver therapy and supervise others; in most countries they do not prescribe medication.

Example sentences

  1. The clinical psychologist carried out a full assessment before therapy began.

  2. She works as a clinical psychologist in a child and adolescent mental health service.

Common collocations

  • trainee clinical psychologist
  • qualified clinical psychologist
  • refer to a clinical psychologist
  • psychotherapyTreatment of psychological problems through a structured, confidential relationship with a trained professional, mainly using conversation rather than medication.
  • assessmentThe process of gathering information about a person through interviews, observation and tests in order to understand their difficulties and plan help.
  • counsellingProfessional talking support that helps people explore problems, feelings and choices, often focused on current life difficulties and usually shorter than long-term psychotherapy.
  • referTo send a person to another professional or service for assessment, treatment or support, usually with a letter explaining why.

More terms: Therapy and Counselling

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.