Psychologist

A practitioner who performs psychology and examines mental states, perceptual processes, cognitive processes, emotional processes, and social processes and behaviour is known as a psychologist. Experimentation, observation, and interpretation of the ways in which people connect to one another and the situations in which they live are common components of their work.

In order to become a psychologist, most students first get a bachelor's degree in psychology, then either a master's or doctoral degree in the field. In contrast to psychiatric physicians and psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychologists typically are not allowed to prescribe medication. However, depending on the jurisdiction, some psychologists who have completed additional training may be eligible for a licence that allows them to prescribe medication; qualification requirements may be different than a bachelor's and a master's.

Psychologists have significant training in psychological testing, scoring, interpretation, and reporting, but psychiatrists often do not receive any training in psychological testing. Psychologists are responsible for conducting psychological testing. Psychologists are also trained in, and often specialise in, one or more psychotherapies to improve the symptoms of many mental disorders. These disorders include, but are not limited to, treatment for anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and eating disorders. Psychologists are also trained in, and often specialise in, one or more psychotherapies to improve the symptoms of many mental disorders. Individual therapy sessions with a psychologist may also be combined with group sessions. Psychologists often use a kind of psychotherapy known as cognitive behavioural therapy (sometimes called CBT) because of its widespread usage, extensive research on its effectiveness, and widespread adoption. Psychologists are able to deal with a wide variety of individuals and organisations, including schools, correctional facilities, private clinics, workplaces, and even sports teams.

The field of applied psychology employs psychological theory to address and resolve issues with human and animal behaviour. Applied disciplines of psychology include clinical psychology, counselling psychology, sport psychology, forensic psychology, industrial and organisational psychology, health psychology, and school psychology. Other applied fields include forensic psychology and industrial and organisational psychology. It's possible for licencing and rules to be different depending on the state and the profession.