Clinical-Psychologist | Explore careers | National Careers Service (2024)

The first step is to get a degree in psychology accredited by The British Psychological Society.

If you have a degree in a subject other than psychology, you can apply for an accredited conversion course.

Postgraduate course

After your degree, you'll need a postgraduate doctorate (PhD or DClinPsych) in clinical psychology. There's usually a lot of competition for places on doctorate courses.

To get a place, you'll need:

• a first or 2:1 (upper second class) in your degree
• evidence of excellent research skills
• some work experience

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 3 A levels or equivalent

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• student finance for fees and living costs
• university courses and entry requirements

You could apply to do a Clinical Associate in Psychology Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.

As a qualified clinical associate, you could apply for graduate membership of The British Psychological Society.

You would work within the field you trained for under the supervision of a registered clinical psychologist.

You would also continue with further postgraduate doctorate training (PhD or DClinPsych) to become a clinical psychologist.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• a degree in a relevant subject

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

Registration

• you'll need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council

Professional and industry bodies

You can join The British Psychological Society for professional development and training opportunities.

Further information

You’ll find more about careers in clinical psychology from The British Psychological Society and Health Careers.

You can also explore other careers in the psychological professions.

You'll need:

• knowledge of psychology
• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• sensitivity and understanding
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent written communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checksas you may work with children and vulnerable adults

As a clinical psychologist, you'll:

• work out what your client needs using interviews and tests
• decide on the best treatments, like therapy or counselling
• go to conferences and research different topics
• work closely with medical professionals like other doctors
• write reports and act as an expert witness in court

You could work in an NHS or private hospital, at a client's home, at a university or at a health centre.

Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.