How to Find a Highly Qualified and Regulated Psychologist

  • ACP-UK

  • January, 2022

People of all ages sometimes need help for emotional and behavioural difficulties.  But finding the right support can be confusing because there are a variety of professionals who offer therapy and counselling.  However, not all talking therapy professions involve rigorous training and very few are closely monitored or regulated.  People who have completed a psychology degree, or indeed anyone, can call themselves a ‘psychologist’ as this is not a protected title in the UK.  However, an undergraduate degree does not give you the skills required to work as a practitioner psychologist.  (Assistant Psychologists and Clinical Associate Psychologists may carry out some aspects of a practitioner psychologist role under close supervision from a fully qualified practitioner psychologist)

This information covers one group of practitioner psychologists, Clinical Psychologists.  Clinical Psychologist is one of the few ‘protected titles’ so it is against the law to use the title of Clinical Psychologist if you are not properly trained and registered.

Clinical Psychologists:

  • Have a Doctoral level training which involves both academic, clinical and research work under close supervision.
  • Are the most qualified of talking therapy professionals in the area of mental health
  • Are trained in neuropsychological assessment
  • Are trained in a number of therapeutic approaches and usually undergo further training within a specific modality(ies) after qualifying.
  • Are regulated by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC).
  • Engage in continuing professional development throughout their careers which is monitored by the HCPC.

When choosing a Clinical Psychologist consider:

  • checking the individual’s name appears on the HCPC register
  • asking questions about their training, skills and experience
  • having an initial consultation
  • how confident you feel they will understand and help you
  • being honest with them about any reservations or concerns

If someone is using the title of Clinical Psychologist but their name does not appear on the HCPC register they may be committing an offence.  In this instance, it is important to notify HCPC at [email protected].  Please provide the name of the person and, if possible, their contact details and any evidence of them using the title of Clinical Psychologist.  You should also contact HCPC if you have any concerns about the practice of a Clinical Psychologist who does appear on their register.