Psychologist
Apply psychological theories and principles to promote the mental and physical health of patients or organisations.
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Job opportunities
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Jobs in Jobstreet right now
Salary
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Typical monthly salary
Job growth
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In the last year
Job satisfaction
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What's it like to be a Psychologist?
Psychologists help people through the application of psychological theories and principles in finding solutions to issues regarding human behaviour and brain processes. They are skilled in psychological assessment methods, testing, and therapy. Since a large part of assessment depends on communicating with patients in distress, Psychologists need to practice critical thinking and critical communication skills. They need to be empathetic and compassionate to encourage patients to open up to them.
Tasks and duties
- Assessing the psychological needs of patients.
- Administering psychological tests.
- Consulting psychiatrists and physicians when diagnosing a patient and recommending treatment.
- Developing treatment plans.
- Guiding patients through their treatment.
- Conducting and publishing research to further knowledge about psychology and improve treatment techniques.
- Teaching and training students.
How to become a Psychologist
Completion of studies up to doctoral degree is required to practise psychology.
- Complete a bachelor degree in psychology. This usually takes four years.
- Advance your credentials with a masters degree and doctorate in psychology. Areas of specialisation include professional psychology, educational and developmental psychology, counselling, neuropsychology, health psychology, and criminal psychology. Postgraduate studies usually take seven to ten years.
- Render supervised clinical hours. Experience and training at a clinic or hospital is important to gain experience and practical skills.
- Areas for employment include management, scientific and technical consulting services, government, scientific and development services, sports, health facilities, social work, and educational institutions.
- For additional credentials, register with the Malaysian Psychological Association (PSIMA).
- Some psychologists opt to open private practices.
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