Clinical Psychologist

Are you interested in helping people struggling with difficulties in their lives and their mental health?

Meet Dr Claire Cartwright, who has been a Clinical Psycholoigist for the past 18 years. She's currently Director of Psychology Clinic, and Lecturer in the Doctor of Clinical Psychology programme, at the University of Auckland.

What does a clinical psychologist do?

Clinical psychologists can fulfill a number of different roles. Perhaps the most central role is as a professional who works with and assists people who are experiencing mental health problems, or problems in relationships, at work or in other areas of their lives.

Most people experience difficulties at some time in their lives and if people are unable to work through these difficulties by themselves, or with the help of family or friends, then they can seek assistance from a psychologist.

Why did you decide you wanted to be a psychologist?

My decision gradually grew over a number of years. I was interested in psychology, and in understanding how people can be assisted to change and develop in order to have the best lives possible for them, and perhaps for myself as well.

Was there any other job you ever seriously considered?

I trained as a primary school teacher but gradually became interested in re-training.

What study and qualifications did you have to get to become a psychologist?

I completed a Masters degree in Psychology and a three year post-graduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology.

What other skills do you need to be a clinical psychologist?

You need knowledge of the broad range of problems and issues that people face in their lives and you need to be able to work with them to change. It is important to respect people, to accept them and to understand the different therapeutic approaches that assist people to overcome their problems.

What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical professional who has completed a degree in medicine and then gone on to study psychiatry.

What is the difference between a Clinical Psychologist and a Psychologist?

There is no clear answer to this question as psychologists can work in many different settings. Psychologist in a broader term that covers a number of different roles. For example, people can work as educational psychologists or organisational psychologists.

What is the best thing about the job?

This varies for different people. For myself, the best thing would be helping people to make the changes they want in themselves, their relationships or their lives.

What is the hardest thing about the job?

Not being able to help everyone.

What hours do you work?

I now work full-time training students to become clinical psychologists. Generally, psychologists can choose to work full or part-time. They can work in hospital clinics, government organisations, community centres or in their own private practice.