Clinical Psychology: Definition, History and References
Clinical psychology is an area of psychology that focuses on the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental health issues. Clinical psychologists use a variety of techniques to assess and treat patients, such as psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Clinical psychologists are trained to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, as well as with children, adolescents, and adults.
Definition
Clinical psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses on the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental health issues. Clinical psychologists use a variety of techniques to assess and treat patients, such as psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Clinical psychologists are trained to work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, as well as with children, adolescents, and adults. The goal of clinical psychology is to improve the mental health and wellbeing of individuals by helping them cope with their mental health issues and life challenges.
History
Clinical psychology has its roots in the work of Sigmund Freud in the late 19th century. Freud developed the psychoanalytic approach, which focused on the unconscious mind and its role in behavior. Freud’s work was further developed by Carl Jung, Alfred Adler, and others who developed theories of psychotherapy and clinical practice.
In the mid-20th century, behaviorism emerged as a major force in psychology. Behaviorists such as B.F. Skinner focused on the study of observable behaviors and the use of reinforcement to modify behavior. This approach provided the foundation for the development of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is now widely used in clinical psychology.
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). What is clinical psychology? Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/clinical-psychology
American Psychological Association. (2020). History of psychology. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/history
Mayo Clinic. (2020). Clinical psychology. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/clinical-psychology/symptoms-causes/syc-20374559