What is a Psychologist?

A psychologist is a professional dedicated to helping individuals, families, and groups maintain their health and well-being. They are medically trained to conduct research, implement testing, and assess and treat a wide range of psychological and emotional issues. Practicing psychologists offer various services to people, and this includes therapy with children, adolescents, or adults, and treating common problems such as anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. There are also psychologists employed in schools to help enhance the learning abilities of students. Neuropsychological services are offered to help those with developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, cognitive problems, and even those who've had stroke and head injuries.  Psychologists may be asked to work in private or public firms to help other professionals develop or enhance their communication skills and improve their level of productivity and job satisfaction. They can also work with performers such as actors, musicians, and athletes to help them develop concentration, enhance performance, and reduce anxiety.

A psychologist is a professional licenced by the State Board of professional registration to diagnose and treat mental health issues and disorders. For a psychologist to qualify for licensure, he must first earn a doctoral degree and undergo a minimum of two years of supervised clinical training. In comparison with other mental health professionals, psychologists often receive a higher level of learning and training in mental health service. In general, psychologists spend at least seven years more on their education and training after earning their undergraduate degree.

However, licensed psychologists are all required to continue their professional education and make sure that in their practice and conduct they keep the highest ethical and professional standards. Failing to maintain the high standards of this profession may put a psychologist under the State's discipline and put his license at risk of being revoked.