WHAT ARE PSYCHOLOGISTS AND WHAT DO THEY DO?

What exactly is a psychologist?

In the State of Georgia, the term “psychologist” is a specific term that is restricted for use only by individuals who have completed a doctorate in psychology and are licensed by the State. Psychologists are mental health professionals who have completed anywhere from six to ten years of training, including graduate school courses, practicum training, a year of internship or residency, and a one-year post-doctoral supervised work experience (post-doctoral fellowship). 

In general, a psychologist will have education and training in human development, cultural diversity, brain structure and function, behavioral dynamics, social and family dynamics, statistics and research methods, psychopharmacology, and ethics. Psychologists differ from other mental health professionals because they receive a broader and lengthier education than, for example, masters degree-level professionals. Clinical psychologists also have intensive training in treating mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, oppositional and defiant behavior, conduct problems, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), substance use problems, bipolar disorders, personality issues, trauma reactions, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and other concerns.

There are several different types of psychologists with different specializations and backgrounds. Some examples are clinical psychologists (those who evaluate and treat mental illness), neuropsychologists (clinical psychologists who specialize in brain function and behavior), academic psychologists (they specialize in research and teaching), industrial/organizational psychologists (those who specialize in personnel psychology and organizational/workplace behavior), forensic psychologists (clinical psychologists who specialize in behavior and the legal system), among others.

Within psychology, there are two different types of doctoral degrees - the Ph.D. and the Psy.D. (pronounced, “Sigh-D,” which stands for “Doctorate of Psychology”). The primary difference is that Ph.D. psychologists receive more training in research and statistics. In contrast, Psy.D. psychologists typically receive more training in applied psychology, such as evaluation and psychotherapy techniques.

The psychologists at Atlanta Psychological Services have background and training to work with clients in improving their mental health and overall functioning. This is done through psychotherapy for individuals, families, couples, and groups. Our psychologists also conduct psychological testing or evaluation to determine diagnosis and treatment needs and/or facilitate an administrative need (i.e., evaluations for court).