How Do I Become a Clinical Psychologist?

“There is a growing need for the existence of psychologists in all specialties and health sectors, particularly the growing requirement of a high quality mental health service in all tiers of healthcare,” according to Dr Ioannou.

Much like not having a related undergraduate and postgraduate degree, a lack of relevant work experience will also make it very tough to progress any further as a clinical psychologist. Undertaking internships and work placements alongside your studies are a great way to assess your own competencies in the field and develop your knowledge and necessary skillset.

Assistant psychologist and research assistant roles are the most sought after when it comes to gaining experience. To even get these roles though, it’s highly likely you’ll need to have previous experience in another healthcare role, such as a care assistant, healthcare assistant or social worker.

It can seem like a typical catch-22, where to get experience, you need experience. But if you’re able to clearly demonstrate your passion for the field, as well as the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired from your academic studies, you’re already halfway there.

Students who enroll on the Master of Clinical Psychology at Alfaisal University will have the opportunity to undertake internships at King Fahad Medical City under the supervision of practicing consultant clinical psychologists.

“Students will take advantage of a 12-month rotation among all these services, covering all areas of healthcare at the KFMC,” said Dr Ioannou.

“Students will gain exposure to outpatients referred from other services and will have the opportunity to assess, diagnose and implement intervention all under expert supervision.”

We’ve established what qualifications and experience you need. But how can you really tell if a career in this intellectually challenging field is right for you?

First of all, clinical psychologists do what they do because they ultimately want to help people improve their health and well-being. Clinical psychologists work with a wide range of patients, from the elderly to young children, all of whom experience behavioral issues, mental health issues, emotional difficulties, and even physical health problems which can have a knock-on effect on their wellbeing.

It’s therefore important to appreciate that in order to work in this specific area of psychology, you’ll need a strong work ethic, the ability to empathize, reserve judgement, be open-minded as well as work well in large interdisciplinary teams.

“We envisage that our program will produce graduates capable of addressing issues encompassing (among other things), intellectual, emotional, psychological, social and behavioral maladjustments, disability and discomfort, minor adjustment issues as well as severe psychopathology,” said Dr Al Tamimi.