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How to become a Psychologist

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Career progression and salary expectations for a Psychologist

Psychologist

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The role of a Psychologist

What does a Psychologist do?

Are you a good listener? Are you fascinated by the study of human behaviour? If the answer's yes, then becoming a Psychologist could be the perfect career move for you.

Psychology is the study of how people think, how they act, react and interact. As a Psychologist you will research and analyse these factors.

Areas of expertise Psychologists can go into include clinical psychology, educational psychology, sports psychology and neuropsychology, to name a few.

Although specific responsibilities vary greatly from specialism to specialism, the role of a Psychologist will generally include the following:

Research and analyse human behaviours and the human condition
Administer tests and assessments and investigate different hypotheses to help diagnose a patient’s condition.
Apply an in-depth knowledge of psychological theory to help understand a patients' problems and advise them on the best course/s of action.
Provide treatment for a wide variety of different situations, ranging from depression, anxiety, and phobias through to overcoming addictions, relationship problems and specific mental disorders.

Is a career as a Psychologist right for me?

To become a Psychologist you will need to possess excellent listening skills, and the ability to empathise and be compassionate towards clients is essential. Strong interpersonal skills are also a must, as you continually strive to meet the objectives of the client.

Other key skills include:

An analytical mind
Exceptional communication skills
Patience, being able to build trust and maintain client confidentiality at all times
Tolerance and tact
The ability to ‘switch-off’ outside of business hours, and not let the emotional nature of the work leave any lasting effects

What's it like to be a Psychologist?

"The best part of the job is being able to help people, whether that be overcoming a fear that’s holding them back, or some difficult personal problems. I get to work with people from all walks of life and backgrounds, and help them try and achieve a better standard of life. In terms of personal rewards, jobs don’t really get much better than that."

Get qualified as a Psychologist

To become a Psychologist, you'll need to take a psychology degree accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), or do a psychology conversion course. You'll also need an accredited postgraduate qualification in the specialism you're looking to work in.

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