When you first start looking into getting professional help it can be overwhelming to figure out what support would be best for you. There are several options, but one route that could help is seeing a Clinical Psychologist.
So, what is a Clinical Psychologist, and how do you know if it’s the best fit for you?
A Clinical Psychologist is trained in several techniques to reduce their client’s psychological distress and promote well-being. They work with clients experiencing a range of mental and physical health difficulties. They are trained to work across the lifespan but normally specialise, for example seeing adults.
They will work with you to identify and understand your thoughts, emotions and behaviours that disrupt everyday functioning and well-being. Often, we are caught in vicious cycles and Clinical Psychologists will work with you to spot the cycles, and overcome them. Their techniques are based on scientific research with clinicians being very skilled in delivering different therapy models. Sessions will start with an assessment, allowing the clinician to determine the most appropriate treatment for each client.
Psychologists can specialise in different areas and use their in-depth knowledge to provide the best interventions and tools to help you manage everyday life. Clinicians undergo roughly 6-9 years of extensive training and must meet criteria set out by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) making it a highly regulated and legally protected title. Clinical Psychologists complete additional, sometimes accredited therapy training, such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Whilst searching for support, you may come across roles such as Counsellor or Psychiatrist. Although there are some overlaps with Clinical psychologists, There are some key differences.
Counsellors tend to be a lower-intensity intervention compared to Clinical Psychologists. They can help with a range of emotional, psychological and relationship issues. Usually, counsellors focus on a specific issue like dealing with stress, a difficult life event or coping with mental health. If you are seeking some guidance for day-to-day troubles, then support from a Counsellor would work well, but if it is more complex and disruptive to your life, a Clinical Psychologist might be a better fit.
Unlike Clinical Psychologists, Counsellors are not yet legally regulated in the UK. However, they can voluntarily register their qualifications and experience with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). Keep this in mind if you are looking into seeking support from a Counsellor.
On the other hand, Psychiatrists are fully trained medical doctors who have specialszed in mental health. Unlike Clinical Psychologists, their training allows them to prescribe medication to clients alongside delivering evidence-based interventions. However, their focus is often more medical.
If you think you would benefit from support from a Clinical Psychologist contact us at hello@nepsychology-co-uk.stackstaging.com, call 07870 241970 or contact us.
