Clinical psychologist” means a person––

1. having a recognized qualification in Clinical Psychology from an institution approved and recognized, by the Rehabilitation Council of India, constituted under section 3 of the Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992; and

2. having a Post Graduate degree in Psychology or Applied Psychology and a Master of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology obtained after completion of a full-time course of two years which includes supervised clinical training or doctorate in clinical psychology which includes supervised clinical training.

As per RCI regulations Clinical Psychologist is expected to perform the following functions:

• Diagnose mental health problems.

• Conceptualize specific adult and child mental health problems within a psychological framework, giving due consideration to psychosocial/ contextual factors, and carryout relevant treatment/management.

• Apply psychological principles and techniques in rehabilitating persons with mental health problems and disabilities.

• Work with the psychosocial dimensions of physical diseases, formulate and undertake focused/targeted psychosocial interventions.

• Work with community to promote health, quality-of-life, and psychological well-being.

• Undertake research in the areas of clinical psychology such as, mental health/illness, physical health/diseases, and relevant societal issues viz. misconception, stigma, discrimination, social tension, gender construction, lifestyle etc.

• Undertake responsibilities connected with teaching and training in core and allied areas of Clinical Psychology.

• Undertake administrative and supervisory/decision-making responsibilities in mental health area.

• Provide expert testimony in the court of law assuming different roles.

So clinical psychologist usually performs in following fields:

• Testing and assessment is an area of unique expertise for psychologists. They conduct evaluations of cognitive abilities, decision-making capacity, psychopathology, personality, emotional well-being, daily functioning, behaviour, and person-environment fit. In the realm of geriatric mental health, psychologists offer additional expertise in the neurological underpinnings of behaviour and age-related changes.

Psychologist is an individual who is professionally trained in one or more branches or subfields of psychology.

Essential Qualification: M.A Psychology/ Applied Psychology

Psychologists work in a variety of settings, including laboratories, schools (e.g., high schools, colleges, universities), social agencies, hospitals, clinics, the military, industry and business, prisons, the government, and private practice. The professional activities of psychologists are also varied but can include psychological counseling, involvement in other mental health care services, research, teaching, and business and organizational consulting. Formal certification or professional licensing is required to practice independently in many of these settings and activities.

It's about clients' active engagement. Therapy isn't a passive process; it's about your active participation and commitment. Therapy can be effective when you're willing to engage with the process, apply the insights gained, prioritize self-care, and dedicate time to your personal growth. It's a collaborative journey where compatibility and your active involvement play key roles in achieving meaningful results.

Yes, psychotherapy is confidential, and therapists are bound by ethical and legal standards to protect client privacy. Information shared during therapy sessions is generally kept confidential unless there is a risk of harm to the client or others, in which case the therapist may need to take appropriate steps to ensure safety.

Therapy sessions typically range from 40 to 45 minutes, but the frequency and duration are tailored to individual needs. Several factors influence these decisions:

1. Nature and Severity of the Condition: The type and severity of the mental health issue being addressed play a significant role. Some conditions may require more frequent or longer sessions.

2. Duration of the Issue: The length of time a person has been dealing with the issue can impact the duration and frequency of therapy sessions.

3. Impact on Daily Life: The extent to which the issue affects daily functioning is considered when determining session length and frequency.

4. Level of Distress: The amount of distress the issue causes is taken into account. More distressing issues may require more frequent or longer sessions.

5. Progress in Therapy: The pace at which the person improves and reaches therapeutic goals influences session frequency and duration.

6. Financial Considerations: Financial constraints may affect the frequency and length of therapy sessions. It's important to discuss these concerns openly with your therapist.

Psychotherapy can help with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, grief, stress management, and personal growth.

Sessions are usually scheduled once a week, although this can vary based on the therapist's recommendation and the client's needs. In some cases, sessions may be more frequent initially and then taper off as progress is made.

During a psychotherapy session, you can expect to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and confidential space. The therapist will listen actively, provide support, offer insights, and teach coping skills or strategies to help you address your concerns.

Many health insurance plans offer coverage for psychotherapy services, but coverage can vary depending on the provider and the specific plan. It's essential to check with your insurance company to understand what services are covered and any out-of-pocket costs you may incur.