What Psychologists Do: Roles, Specialties, and Mental Health Support

Psychologists are doctoral-level (PhD, PsyD, EdD) professionals trained in the science of behavior and mental processes. They do not prescribe medication in most jurisdictions (exceptions: NM, LA, IL, military, IHS with additional training).

Core Activities

• Assessment & Diagnosis: Clinical interviews, psychological testing (cognitive, personality, neuropsychological), DSM-5/ICD-11 diagnosis.
• Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): CBT, ACT, DBT, psychodynamic, humanistic, EMDR, family/couples therapy, group therapy.
• Research: Experimental, clinical, translational – advancing evidence base for treatments, understanding cognition, development, social behavior.
• Teaching & Supervision: Academic appointments, training graduate students, supervising trainees.
• Consultation: Organizational (workplace wellness, leadership), forensic (court evaluations), medical (health psychology), school/educational.
• Program Development & Evaluation: Mental health programs, prevention initiatives, policy advocacy.

Common Specialties

• Clinical, Counseling, Neuropsychology, Forensic, Health, School, Industrial-Organizational, Developmental, Sports, Rehabilitation.

Settings

• Private practice, hospitals, VA/medical centers, universities, schools, corporations, government, correctional facilities, community health centers.

When to See a Psychologist

• Persistent emotional distress, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, behavioral problems, learning difficulties, career transitions, chronic illness adjustment.

Psychologists provide evidence-based, non-pharmacological mental health care. For medication, they collaborate with psychiatrists/PCPs.