Jobs for Ph.D Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychology is a field that has a wide variety of career opportunities. A masters degree or a doctorate (preferred) and a license are usually required for a clinical psychologist to practice. 

Clinical psychology is a specialty of psychology that is concerned with assessing, diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental disorders. A clinical psychologist can specialize in severe mental disorders or can help people with traumatic or difficult life events. Clinical psychologists may provide group or individual therapy and develop behavioral modification programs.

A clinical psychologist may work in a hospital setting, university or medical school, physical rehab facilities or in the private sector.There are a wide variety of work specializations available to a person with a doctorate in clinical psychology. Some clinical psychologisst continue to do research and teach throughout their careers. 

Another specialization is in health psychology. This is the study of how biological, psychological and social factors affect one's health and well being. This type of psychologist may help people to quit smoking or stop engaging in other negative behavior that will affect their health and quality of life.

Neuropsychology, another special field, deals with the relationship between brain chemistry and human behavior. Oftentimes, these psychologists are helping stroke victims or people with head injuries by studying the affect of the brain injury on their mental health.

Geropscychology deals with the elderly and aging. Many issues face the elderly such as coping with feelings of uselessness in retirement, loss of a spouse, diminishing health and other emotional issues that affect people as they age.

Child Psychology deals with children and the unique issues facing the mental health of a child including depression, anxiety, and learning difficulties. They are particularly capable of working with young children and their families.

In addition to these specialties, sub-specialties or "niche" work, Ph.D psychologists deal with substance abuse, mental health, learning disabilities and emotional disturbance. 

Unless a clinical psychologist also has a medical degree, they are not able to prescribe medication; however, they will often work in conjunction with physicians to aid in the treatment of patients. Two States, Louisiana and New Mexico do have clauses to allow clinical psychologisst to prescribe  medicine to some extent. 

Jobs are expected to grow 15 percent in psychology over the next decade and prospects are best for those with a Ph.D. in the field. 

This post is brought to you by Argosy University. Drawing upon our more than 30-year history of granting degrees in professional psychology, Argosy University has developed a curriculum that focuses on interpersonal skills and practical experience alongside academic learning. Because getting a degree is one thing. Succeeding, quite another.

Resources: Http://www.bls.gov, http://www.careeroverview.com/psychology-careers.html, http://www.healthguideusa.org/careers/psychologist_job_outlook.htm