What is a psychologist?

A psychologist is someone who specialises in psychotherapy, the so-called “talking therapies”.

In order to become a psychologist, one needs to do an undergraduate course (usually a B.A.) with psychology as one of your majors, followed by an honours degree in psychology. Students have to go through a stringent selection process in order to be able to do a Masters degree in Psychology.

There are several divisions of psychology, including clinical, counselling, educational, health and industrial. Depression is usually treated by a clinical or counselling psychologist. All psychologists must be registered with the Health Professionals Council in order to practise.

Provided by ArmMed Media
Revision date: June 14, 2011
Last revised: by David A. Scott, M.D.