What Is a Clinical Psychologist?

Written By Melanie Claxton

So what exactly is a Clinical Psychologist? (And how are they different from other therapists?)

I often get asked (usually prefaced with a smile and a slightly hesitant, “I don’t mean to be rude, but….”):

“What exactly is a clinical psychologist - and what’s the difference between all the therapists?”

If you’ve ever looked for emotional or mental health support, for yourself, your child, or your family, then you will likely be aware how confusing the landscape is. You’ve probably come across a whole range of professionals offering help: counsellors, psychotherapists, family therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists... It can be hard to know who does what, or who’s right for your situation. I thought it might be helpful to explain, in a brief but straightforward way, what a Clinical Psychologist actually is, and how that’s different from some of the other people working in this space.

What Is a Clinical Psychologist?

A Clinical Psychologist is a specialist mental health professional who is trained to understand how the mind works, especially when someone is feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling. We help people (including children and families) make sense of what’s going on. We then work to find ways for people to manage any challenges they face, so that they can feel supported and more in control of living the life they want to.

We are trained to assess, understand, and support people through a wide range of difficulties, such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, behavioural challenges, family stress, and more. We don’t just offer one type of therapy. Clinical psychologists are trained in a variety of approaches, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment-based work, family systems and psychodynamic ideas, amongst others.  This means that we tend to tailor what we offer to meet the specific needs of the individual or family.

Clinical psychology training in the UK is in-depth and takes many years (a minimum of 7 years but usually more). It typically includes:

  • A psychology degree (or equivalent)

  • Direct experience in clinical settings

  • A doctoral-level qualification in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy)

  • Ongoing supervision and professional development

Not All “Psychologists” Are the Same

This part often surprises people:

The term ‘psychologist’ on its own is not legally protected in the UK.

That means anyone can call themselves a “psychologist” (even if they’ve only completed an online course or a basic degree in psychology). It can be confusing when people use the word without any clinical training or regulation. (See the Association for Clinical Psychologists UK (ACP-UK) campaign on this issue for more details.)

But, importantly:

The title ‘Clinical Psychologist’ is legally protected in the UK.

Only those who are qualified and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) can use it.

This regulation exists to ensure safety, quality, and public trust. It means that when you see the title “Clinical Psychologist,” you can be pretty confident the person has met rigorous professional, ethical, and academic standards.

Aside from Clinical Psychologist, other legally protected titles (the ones that are regulated by the HCPC) include:

  • Counselling Psychologist - also trained to support people with a range of emotional and mental health challenges

  • Educational Psychologist – work mainly in schools, supporting children’s learning and development

  • Forensic Psychologist– work in prisons, courts, and the justice system

  • Health Psychologist - focus on the psychological side of physical health conditions

  • Occupational Psychologist – improve wellbeing and performance in workplace settings

  • Sport and Exercise Psychologist – help athletes and performers with mindset and motivation

Only professionals with these specific qualifications and HCPC registration can legally use these titles. So if you’re looking for psychological support, it’s a good idea to check exactly what type of psychologist someone is, and whether they’re HCPC registered. Each of these roles is different, but all involve psychological knowledge and regulated training.

 

How Is a Clinical Psychologist Different from Other Therapists?

There are many wonderful professionals working in mental health and emotional wellbeing. All might offer something slightly different and are trained in different ways. It is also so important to note, that because not all roles are legally regulated, it’s really important to check a professional’s credentials, qualifications, and registration before starting work with them. Here’s a quick guide to how Clinical Psychologists are similar to (and different from) some of the other roles you might come across:

Counsellors

  • Typically provide a supportive space to talk through life’s challenges, stress, or emotional difficulties

  • Often trained to diploma or postgraduate level

  • The title "counsellor" is not legally protected, though many are registered with the BACP, UKCP or other bodies

  • May offer short- or long-term support

Psychotherapists

  • Usually trained in a particular therapeutic approach (e.g., psychodynamic, person-centred, integrative)

  • Work with deeper or longer-term emotional issues

  • Again, this title is not legally regulated, but may register with professional bodies like UKCP or BACP

  • Training varies from diploma to doctoral level

Psychiatrists

  • Medical doctors who specialise in mental health

  • Can prescribe medication and often manage psychiatric diagnoses

  • May work in hospitals, CAMHS, or community mental health teams

  • Some also provide therapy, but not all do

Family Therapists (Systemic Therapists)

  • Focus on relationship patterns and family dynamics

  • Work with families, couples, or individuals

  • Usually trained at postgraduate level in systemic therapy

  • Often registered with UKCP or AFT (Association for Family Therapy), but not always HCPC-regulated

Why Choose a Clinical Psychologist?

Clinical Psychologists bring a blend of science, compassion, and flexibility. We are trained to understand the complexity of human brains, behaviour, relationships, and mental health — and to work with people of all ages and backgrounds, including children and families.

When you see a Clinical Psychologist, you can expect:

  • A tailored, evidence-based approach to therapy

  • Clear assessment and support planning

  • A strong ethical foundation and professional accountability

  • Recognition of the whole person, not just the “problem”

And because we’re HCPC-registered, you should be able to feel more confident in the quality and safety of the care you’re receiving.

Looking for Support?

If you’re looking for support for yourself, your child, or your family, or if you’re just unsure what kind of help might be right, I’d be happy to talk.

Feel free to get in touch for a friendly, no-pressure chat about how I might be able to support you.

 

Melanie Claxton