A psychologist has a very demanding job and there is a lot of training that needs to be done in order to obtain the qualifications needed. Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose and treat individuals suffering from psychological distress and mental illness. They often work in a hospital, mental health unit or privately.

If you are thinking that this is the career for you, you do need to ensure that you can undertake the years of training that will give you the qualifications that you need to start applying for jobs.

You will need to complete a degree accredited by the BPS (British Psychological Society), and 3 years of post-graduate study (leading to a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology), in order to become a Clinical Psychologist. You will also need at least a year of relevant clinical work experience. This may be done in a mental health clinic or hospital.

You will need to ensure that you have the funds to pay for the courses (or get a student loan) and also to support yourself through the years of study. You can expect to spend 7-8 years studying before you are able to start working on your own.