Clinical Psychology

Definition of clinical psychology

The field of psychology that “involves research, teaching and services relevant to the applications of principles, methods, and procedures for understanding, predicting, and alleviating intellectual, emotional, biological, psychological, social and behavioral maladjustment, disability and discomfort, applied to a wide range of client populations.”

In short, clinical psychology bridges _______ _______ and _______ _______ in order to reduce human suffering and promote psychological and physical health.

clinical science, clinical practice

the largest subfield in psychology

clinical psychology

• Typical requirements for independent practice include:

doctoral degree, supervised clinical experience, licensing examinations, record of ethical and competent practice

Clarifying “Psychology = Clinical Psychology?”

only one component of psychology, not all-knowing oracles but empirical methods

What It Takes to Become a Clinical Psychologist:

clinical attitude/approach, personality, legal, educational and ethical, experience, competence testing

A clinical attitude means

asking questions not to judge, but to understand

observing patterns, formulating hypothesis, revising them

non-judgmental curiosity, professional dress and presentation, clear and respectful explanations

Personality features of clinical psychologists

empathy, active listening, emotion regulation, supervision, own therapy, communication skills

Legal Regulations for psychotherapists in Turkey

having an office with waiting room, people with disabilities, at most 3 psychotherapists, master’s degree in clinical psychology, inviting third parties to session is forbidden.