Psychologist

Summary

Psychologists study human behaviour and the processes associated with how people think and feel; conduct research and provide treatment and counselling in order to reduce distress and behavioural and psychological problems; and promote mental health and positive behaviour in individuals and groups.

Psychologists work on a broad range of issues with clients, including children, adults, couples, families and organisations.

Duties & Tasks

Psychologists may perform the following tasks:

  • conduct therapeutic interviews and provide counselling
  • give psychological tests and assess the results to identify the source of problems and determine treatment
  • research psychological aspects of topics such as study motivation, teaching skills, occupational behaviour, working conditions and organisational structures
  • provide follow-up services to groups and individuals for support and evaluation purposes
  • evaluate the results of programs aimed at improving personal and organisational effectiveness
  • construct tests to assess and predict mental and emotional states, as well as performance
  • conduct academic research.

Specialisations

Clinical Neuropsychologist

A clinical neuropsychologist specialises in the assessment and diagnosis of brain impairment and how this affects thinking skills, emotions, behaviour and personality. They are also involved in the rehabilitation and management of the effects of brain impairment and often work with other health professionals.

Clinical Psychologist

A clinical psychologist is trained in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and psychological problems. Located in hospitals, universities, general medical practices, community health centres and private practice, they often work with general medical practitioners, psychiatrists and other health professionals.

Counselling Psychologist

A counselling psychologist provides assessment, diagnosis and psychological therapy for individuals, couples, families, groups and organisations, and treats a wide range of psychological problems and mental health disorders. They work in counselling agencies, government departments, hospitals, general medical practitioners divisions, educational institutions and private practice.

Educational and Developmental Psychologist

An educational and developmental psychologist provides assessment, intervention and counselling services related to the developmental and educational issues that occur in life. Specialisations include life span transitions, early intervention, disability, problems of learning and adjustment in schools, career and family development, and ageing.

Forensic Psychologist

A forensic psychologist applies psychological knowledge, theory and skills to matters related to the legal and criminal justice system. They provide expert opinion to the courts in such matters as criminal behaviour, child abuse and family court cases.

Health Psychologist

A health psychologist is concerned with illness prevention and health promotion. They assess and treat the biological, psychological and social factors surrounding health and illness in order to promote positive change and wellbeing.

Organisational Psychologist

An organisational psychologist seeks to understand the complex interrelationships that occur within the workplace in order to improve organisational effectiveness and individual wellbeing. They apply psychological principles and methods to understand and influence work behaviour, worker attitudes, organisational structures and organisational systems.

Sport and Exercise Psychologist

A sport and exercise psychologist helps sportspeople achieve their optimum mental health and wellbeing to improve their sporting performance. They may support athletes who are recovering from injuries, who have not met their performance expectations or who are struggling with the pressure of training and competition.

Personal Requirements

  • interested in people and human behaviour
  • able to solve problems
  • an inquisitive mind
  • patience and perceptiveness
  • good oral and written communication skills.

Related Courses:

Related Careers