Clinical Psychologist
What's it like to be a Clinical Psychologist?
A Clinical Psychologist (Kaimātai Hinengaro) provides support and services to people living with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. They also help people dealing with the effects of emotional, drug or alcohol abuse. They assess, diagnose and counsel patients as part of a treatment plan. A Clinical Psychologist may be required to provide expert opinion during a criminal justice trial and other legal matters. They work in schools, prisons, universities, health care facilities and private clinics.
Tasks and duties
- Assessing, diagnosing and understanding patients with mental illness and psychological conditions.
- Developing tailored treatments plans.
- Liaising with clients, their families and other professionals who may be involved in order to provide holistic care.
- Researching emerging trends in psychology and educating other staff.
How to become a Clinical Psychologist
You need to study for around five years and be registered to become a Clinical Psychologist.
Complete a relevant bachelor degree, such as a Bachelor of Science (Psychology). This usually takes three years of full-time study.
Complete an accredited postgraduate qualification, such as a Master of Clinical Psychology. This is a competitive-entry course which usually takes two years of full-time study.
Register with the New Zealand Psychologists Board to get your Practising Certificate. Registration requirements include the completion of 1500 hours of supervised practice. Your certificate must be renewed annually.
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