When people think of a psychologist, they traditionally imagine a couch or a big comfy chair, where you think and divulge all your deep, dark secrets. You’d be surprised to find out that psychologists specialize in all kinds of different things that you may never have imagined.
Before we move on and learn about the many different types of psychologists, it is important to remember that anyone who calls himself a psychologist has a doctorate, meaning a PhD, or PsyD, and is licensed to practice.
1. Clinical psychologists
A clinical psychologist is the most common type of psychologist. They closely resemble a therapist in that they diagnose and treat people for mental, emotional, or even physical difficulties. Clinical psychologists are found in hospital settings, private practices, and even part of large medical groups anywhere from communities to educational settings, even resorts and cruises, wherever there may be a mental health crisis or need.
2. Biopsychologists
Biopsychologists are usually researchers who study brain and behavior, or how physiology affects psychology. They may study how hormones, neurotransmitters, and biological influences impact emotions and behavior. They may work in a lab, university setting, or even with pharmaceutical companies.
3. Behavioral and cognitive psychologists
Cognitive and behavioral psychologists practice an evidence-based form of therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is research-based and thus, boasts high efficacy and results. CBT psychologists might work in research and academic settings but also often work in private or public clinical settings much like clinical psychologists.
4. Forensic psychologists
Forensic psychologists walk the line between mental health and the law. They understand the legal system and apply it to behavior. Forensic psychologists work with the courts and law enforcement agencies. They may also work with private law firms to explain criminal behavior and testify. They may assess individuals charged with a crime, or for custody or civil litigation cases, where their expertise is needed.
5. Organizational psychologists
Industrial organizational psychologists work with workplaces, companies, and even larger economic systems to increase employee well-being, productivity, and guide employment policy changes. They want more harmony and communication between employee and employer. IO psychologists may work for companies or as consultants for hire. They may do research or teach in their area.
6. Social psychologists
Social psychologists study how societal norms and expectations as well as other people impact one’s behavior in a social setting or a culture. Most social psychologists work in research and teach, and they do not often work in clinical settings.
7. Educational psychologists
Educational psychologists research learning and how to apply it to programs and policies around education. They might have a PhD, a PsyD, or an Ed.D. They might work in school or university settings. Educational psychologists might also conduct psychoeducational testing.
School psychologists are either master’s level or Doctoral level psychologists who primarily work in schools testing students for special education services and IEPs. School psychologists can only work in schools or under a doctoral-level psychologist in clinical educational settings.
8. Developmental psychologists
Developmental psychologists study human development across the lifespan. They research different life stages and how they impact cognitive, social, emotional, and physical changes. Developmental psychologists may study aspects of human functioning in different stages. They may work in educational or clinical settings, guiding other health professionals in treatment and policy.
9. Neuropsychologists
Neuropsychologists work with patients to understand the connection between brain and behavior. They administer standardized tests to diagnose brain injury, learning disabilities, neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD and Autism, as well as overlapping psychiatric disorders. Neuropsychologists might conduct research on memory, attention, neurodegenerative disorders, and even personality and mood disorders. Their job is to diagnose and help with treatment planning, like assisting other medical professionals with the patient's course of therapy and medication management.
10. Military psychologists
A military psychologist is a professional who uses their mental health training to help military members combat stress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other deployment-related mental health challenges.
Get started at Comprehend the Mind
At Comprehend the Mind, our dedicated team of neuropsychologists specialize in all sorts of evaluations, including educational and forensic assessments. Find out which test is right for you or a loved one by signing up here.
