Psychologist
What is a Clinical Psychologist and what do they do?
A Clinical Psychologist assesses people’s behavioural and mental wellbeing and provides treatment to help with problems the person may have.
For more information on what a Clinical Psychologist does check out the following website links:
What do Child and Adolescent Mental Health and AOD Clinical Psychologists do?
- identify current issues affecting children and young people using mental health services
- interview and observe children and young people and their families/whānau
- study the medical, social and family histories of children and young people using mental health services
- discuss and provide treatment/therapy for a wide range of issues for children and young people using mental health services
- give psychological tests to identify issues and measure the child or young person’s skills and abilities
- together with the child or young person and their family/whānau, develop treatment plans to address mental health issues
- assist in group therapy for issues such as social skill development, anger management and assertiveness training
- evaluate the effects of treatment given
- write reports about children and young people they are working with
What's great about this job?
- it's a fun and stimulating career
- everyday is different because children and young people are different and have different needs
- it’s amazing to support children and young people to find their strengths and work alongside their whānau to create a positive difference in their lives
"I get to work with Māori tamariki, rangatahi and whānau and I have a passion for working with Māori whānau in South Auckland. And just seeing the difference I can make in people’s lives." Dr Ainsleigh Cribb-Su'a (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Kauwhata, Waikato), He Kākano Māori Clinical Team, Whirinaki CAMHS, Counties Manukau DHB, Auckland
What personal qualities do you need?
A Clinical Psychologist needs to be:
- understanding and concerned for others
- patient
- observant
- flexible in their approaches to people and their problems
- able to inspire confidence in others
- able to keep information private
- able to work well under pressure
- practical
- positive
- responsible
- approachable
- able to build up a rapport with a wide variety of people
Who could you work with?
Depending on where they work, Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologists can work with all ages of children and youth. An important part of being a Clinical Psychologist in this field is working with families.
What kind of place could you work in?
Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologists are usually based in a specialist service with other mental health workers. Working 'off-site' (away from the office) can be a big part of the job with school and family visits happening all the time. Clinical Psychologists can also work in private practice.
How much could you expect to earn?
Salaries vary, but Clinical Psychologists usually earn between $50,000 and $90,000+ per year, depending on qualifications and experience. Clinical Psychologists who work in private practice may earn more than this.
Are there any scholarships I can apply for to help with the cost of studying?
Yes! There are a number of scholarships that you may be able to apply for. Click here for details.
For information on where you can study to become a Clinical Psychologist, how long it takes and what you should study at school click here for the Clinical Psychologist page on the Career Services website.
