Clinical psychologists are qualified to work with individuals across the lifespan with behavioural, emotional and/or psychological distress causing disruption to their everyday functioning and wellbeing. Their task is to facilitate adaptability and change in individuals, groups, families, organisations and communities in an effort to alleviate distress and enhance future resilience.
In addition to the core proficiencies of assessment and formulation clinical psychologists specialise in psychological treatment, that is the application of therapeutic techniques and process within the context of working with a range of individuals in distress. This includes specific knowledge of psychological therapy using a range of therapeutic models including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), systemic family therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Clinical psychologists are proficient to work with individuals of any age with often complex, overlapping and multiple difficulties relating to a number of contributory factors including: Mental health problems (e.g. anxiety, eating disorder, depression, self-harm); Severe mental illness (e.g. psychosis); Personality difficulties; Psychosexual and/or relationship difficulties; Brain injury/neuropsychological difficulties, whether related to trauma (e.g. head injury from road traffic accident), condition (e.g. epilepsy) or abnormal ageing process (e.g. dementia); Physical, sensory or communication disabilities; Cognitive and adaptive functioning impairments (e.g. significant learning disability); Developmental difficulties (e.g. eating, sleeping, challenging behaviour); Pervasive developmental delay/disorders (e.g. autism spectrum disorder/condition); Neuro-developmental difficulties/disorders (e.g. attention deficit hyperactivity disorder); Adjustment to adverse circumstances or life events (e.g. bereavement, loss, trauma, abuse, domestic violence); Physical health issues (e.g. stroke, cancer); and, Substance misuse, addictions (e.g. alcohol, drugs).
Counselling psychologists are qualified to work with people across the lifespan as individuals, couples, families, groups or organisations, addressing any manifestation of psychological distress as well as adjustment to life experiences. They pay particular attention to subjectivity and inter-subjectivity through the use of therapeutic relationships with an understanding of relevant spiritual and cultural traditions and contexts. They work in health and social care, educational, forensic, organisational and independent settings.
In addition to the core proficiency of assessment and psychological formulation, counselling psychologists specialise in providing psychological therapy within the three major traditions of psychotherapy; cognitive behavioural therapy, humanistic therapies and psychodynamic therapies. Practitioners integrate a range of models and theories to draw on the most appropriate approach for the client or clients. They will have experienced psychotherapy as a client and reflected on their own life experiences.
Counselling psychologists will be able to work with a range of difficulties that include: Mental health problems, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self-harm; Personality difficulties; Relationship difficulties, adult relationships, parenting problems, conflict resolution; Communication difficulties, sensory disabilities; Developmental difficulties; Bereavement, loss, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence; Attachment styles; Boundary violations; dynamics of power; Substance misuse and addictions; and, use and interpretation of psychometric tests.