Clinical psychologist
What does clinical psychologist do?
A clinical psychologist assesses, diagnoses and treats mental health conditions and psychological disorders across all ages. They use evidence-based talking therapies, such as cognitive behaviour therapy, rather than medication, and they design structured treatment plans for each person. Clinical psychology is a specialised area of psychology focused on more complex mental health needs. Unlike a psychiatrist or GP, a clinical psychologist does not prescribe medication.
Clinical psychologists work in hospitals, community mental health services, private practices and clinics, schools, universities, and government or correctional settings. Many split their time between direct client work, assessment, and supervision or research. The work is often one-to-one, and sometimes with families or groups.
Is a career as clinical psychologist right for me?
A career as a clinical psychologist may suit you if you are a strong listener, care deeply about mental health, and enjoy detailed, evidence-based work. You need empathy, resilience, sharp analytical skills, and the commitment to complete a long, regulated training pathway.
Other desirable skills and attributes include:
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
The ability to take initiative, demonstrate personal drive, and maintain a professional attitude.
How to become a clinical psychologist
If you are exploring how to become a clinical psychologist, it helps to know this is a long, regulated pathway. You complete an accredited four-year psychology sequence, then postgraduate study, and register with the Psychology Board of Australia through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). General registration makes you a psychologist; the clinical psychologist title is an area of practice endorsement, granted after a Master of Clinical Psychology and a supervised registrar program.
A common path to becoming a clinical psychologist:
- Complete an accredited four-year psychology sequence, such as UniSQ's Bachelor of Psychology (Honours).
- Complete accredited postgraduate study, such as a Master of Clinical Psychology.
- Register with the Psychology Board of Australia through AHPRA.
- Complete supervised practice, including the Clinical Registrar Program, for the clinical endorsement.
- Maintain registration and continuing professional development throughout your career.
Accreditation and qualifications
Psychologists must register with the Psychology Board of Australia through AHPRA. General registration makes you a psychologist; the clinical psychologist area of practice endorsement follows a Master of Clinical Psychology and a supervised Clinical Registrar Program. UniSQ's psychology programs, including the Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and Master of Clinical Psychology, are accredited by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC).
How long does it take to become a clinical psychologist?
Becoming a clinical psychologist takes at least six years of study plus supervised practice. UniSQ's Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) takes four years, followed by a two-year Master of Clinical Psychology.
After the masters, you complete a supervised Clinical Registrar Program before gaining the clinical endorsement. In total, the pathway commonly takes eight or more years from starting university.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Train towards clinical psychology with UniSQ, from an accredited Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) through to a Master of Clinical Psychology, with supervised practice in UniSQ's own psychology clinics.
Responsibilities and work settings
Conducting psychological assessments and diagnoses.
Developing individualised, evidence-based treatment plans.
Delivering therapy such as cognitive behaviour therapy.
Monitoring and reviewing client progress.
Maintaining case notes and coordinating with GPs and allied health.
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Public hospitals and health services
Community health organisations
Disability services providers
Government agencies, departments and councils
Primary and secondary schools
Universities and higher education providers
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Clinical psychologist
Related careers
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