Mental Health

Clinical Psychologist

SOC 19-3031 · ESCO 2634 · OSCA 261131

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Role snapshot

Overview

Assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health conditions through evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic approaches, and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). Conducts diagnostic interviews, administers psychological tests, formulates treatment plans, and maintains detailed treatment notes while adhering to ethical guidelines and professional standards.

Improves the mental well-being and quality of life for individuals, couples, and families by providing expert psychological assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. Contributes to public health by reducing mental health stigma and promoting effective coping strategies.

On the job

  • Conduct comprehensive diagnostic interviews and psychological assessments to evaluate mental health conditions.
  • Develop and implement individualized treatment plans using evidence-based therapeutic modalities.
  • Provide individual, group, and family therapy sessions to address a range of psychological disorders and life challenges.
  • Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, suchs as psychiatrists and social workers, for integrated patient care.
  • Maintain accurate and confidential patient records, including progress notes, treatment plans, and assessment reports.
Clinical Psychologist at work

Tools & technology

DSM-5ICD-10Psychological assessment tools (e.g., MMPI, WAIS, Beck Inventories)Electronic Health Record (EHR) systemsTelehealth platforms

Average salary

$100K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$70K Bottom 10%
$140K Top 10%

Job outlook

Growing

Job growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.

Education & training

A doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in clinical psychology, followed by supervised clinical experience and state licensure.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Supervisor

CURRENT ROLE

Clinical Psychologist

Mental Health

ADJACENT MOVES

Research Psychologist
Health Psychologist
Postdoctoral Fellow Clinical Psychology
Psychology Intern
School Psychologist With Additional Training

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

I

investigative · ISA

People who enjoy investigating human behavior, applying scientific principles to help others, and engaging in analytical problem-solving tend to thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Curious

Genuinely interested in understanding the complexities of human behavior and mental processes, always seeking new knowledge.

Methodical

Applies structured, evidence-based approaches to assessment and treatment, ensuring thoroughness and consistency.

Engaging

Can build rapport and communicate effectively with diverse clients, fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic environment.

Compassionate

Deeply cares about the well-being of others, demonstrating empathy and a non-judgmental approach to client care.

Resilient

Manages emotionally demanding situations and client challenges with composure, maintaining professional boundaries and self-care.

Best for

  • Individuals passionate about understanding the human mind and dedicated to improving mental health outcomes.
  • Professionals who thrive in a structured yet empathetic environment, applying scientific methods to human challenges.

Watch out for

  • The work can be emotionally demanding, requiring strong emotional resilience and self-care strategies.
  • Extensive documentation and administrative tasks are a regular part of the role, requiring attention to detail.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Clinical Psychologist — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team case consultation
Individual therapy sessions
Individual therapy sessions
Client documentation & notes
Tue
Psychological assessment administration
Supervision session
Individual therapy sessions
Wed
Professional development / Research review
Individual therapy sessions
Client documentation & treatment planning
Thu
Individual therapy sessions
Individual therapy sessions
Consultation with other professionals
Fri
Administrative tasks / Billing
Individual therapy sessions
Psychological assessment scoring & interpretation
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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