Psychologist

Psychologists study human behaviour, conduct research and provide treatment and counselling in order to reduce distress and behavioural and psychological problems, and to promote mental health in individuals and groups.

Psychologists work on a broad range of issues with clients, including children, adults, couples, families and organisations.

Psychologists may perform the following tasks:

conduct therapeutic interviews and provide counselling
give psychological tests and assess the results to identify the source of problems and determine treatment
research psychological aspects of topics such as study motivation, teaching skills, occupational behaviour, working conditions and organisational structures
provide follow-up services to groups and individuals for support and evaluation purposes
evaluate the results of programs aimed at improving personal and organisational effectiveness
construct tests to assess and predict mental and emotional states, as well as performance
conduct academic research.

Specialisations:

Clinical Neuropsychologist

A clinical neuropsychologist specialises in the assessment and diagnosis of brain impairment and how this affects thinking skills, emotions, behaviour and personality. They are also involved in the rehabilitation and management of the effects of brain impairment and often work with other health professionals.

Clinical Psychologist

A clinical psychologist trained in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness and psychological problems. Located in hospitals, universities, general medical practices, community health centres and private practice, they often work with general medical practitioners, psychiatrists and other health professionals.

Community Psychologist

A community psychologist works with community members and policy makers in considering the individual, social, political and environmental factors that contribute to psychological wellbeing within communities. They occupy a variety of roles in urban and rural settings such as local government, education, community health and non-government agencies.

Counselling Psychologist

A counselling psychologist provides assessment, counselling and therapy to individuals, couples, families, groups and organisations. Their clients are, in general, people trying to cope with everyday stresses and the resulting emotional and social problems.

Educational and Developmental Psychologist

An educational and developmental psychologist provides assessment, intervention and counselling services related to the developmental and educational issues that occur in life. Specialisations include life span transitions, early intervention, disability, problems of learning and adjustment in schools, career and family development and ageing.

Forensic Psychologist

A forensic psychologist applies psychological knowledge, theory and skills to matters related to the legal and criminal justice system. They provide expert opinion to the courts in such matters as criminal behaviour, child abuse and family court cases.

Health Psychologist

A health psychologist concerned with illness prevention and health promotion. They have knowledge of, and assess and treat the biological, psychological and social factors that determine health and illness in order to promote positive change and wellbeing.

Organisational Psychologist

An organisational psychologist seeks to understand the complex interrelationships that occur within the workplace in order to improve organisational effectiveness and individual wellbeing. They apply psychological principles and methods to understand and influence work behaviour, worker attitudes, organisational structures and organisational systems.

Sports Psychologist

A sports psychologist helps sportspeople to achieve their optimum mental health and wellbeing to improve their sporting performance. They may support athletes who are recovering from injuries, have not met their performance expectations, or who are struggling with the pressure of training and competition.

Personal Requirements:

interested in people and human behaviour
able to solve problems
an inquisitive mind
patience and perceptiveness
good oral and written communication skills.

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