Clinical Psychology: The Evolution Of Clinical Psychology

ination of Clinical Psychology

Using the philosophies of psychology to forecast and comprehend how to interpret in the best way the emotional, psychological, intellectual, biological, behavioral, and social aspects of human mental functions is clinical psychology. The evaluation of issues suffered by an individual by use of procedures, treatments, and a variety of practices and using scientific methods are executed by clinical psychologists (Plante, 2011). There is a long history of clinical psychology that has evolved this profession to what we see today. The role of statistics and research within this field has had a significant impact on the evolvement. Clinical psychology is a vital resource in the diagnosing and treatment of mental illness

278). The effort put forward to understand the way the human brain functions both normally and abnormally has had a significant impact on the evolution of clinical psychology. There are various scientific breakthroughs made often related to the human brain, behavior, and treatments. The knowledge gained through the ever evolving field of clinical psychology has shown to improve the lives of many individuals.

Sigmund Freud is famous for developing the concept of the id, ego, and superego and these have been tools that clinical psychologist have used to diagnose patients. Psychoanalysis goes deep into the mind of the patient to reveal the reason for each thought and behavior (Troland, 1914). Freud was a key player in the direction that clinical psychology took for decades.

Alfred Adler spent many years researching with the major psychologist, Freud, and Jung, but often disagreed with their theories. He believed that each person is unique and that no theory could cover everybody (Fisher,

School psychologists obtain a master's degree and work in a school. Whereas, a clinical psychologist can work in a variety of settings and have a doctorate (Plante, 2011).

Psychiatrists differ from a clinical psychologist in that they are physicians with medical degrees that have completed their residency in psychiatry. These professionals "use their medical training to diagnose and treat a wide spectrum of mental illnesses" (Plante, 2011, p.24). Psychiatrists are doctors and can prescribe medication in all states, whereas the psychologist can only legally prescribe in a few states. Social workers help individuals or families to deal with problems, such as domestic issues or social problems. "Social workers are mainly focused on case management, patient advocacy, and a liaison to social service agencies and benefits" (Plante, 2011, p. 25). The majority of social workers obtain a bachelor's degree although it is becoming more popular to have a master's degree in this