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Need a Psychologist

When should I consider seeing a psychologist?

Many people experience one or more of the following problems: sadness, panic, stress, job conflicts, marital difficulties, drug and alcohol abuse, and trouble with acting out adolescents. These are only a few of the anxieties and stresses of everyday life that can overwhelm you to the point that your life, your work, or your happiness is seriously impacted. When any of these situations occur, this is the time that you should consider talking to a psychologist, who is someone that can help.

What do psychologists do?

Psychologists are specially trained doctorates of psychology who evaluate and treat a full range of emotional disorders and life adjustment problems. In addition, psychologists conduct research, teach at the college and university level, perform testing, consult with business and industry, and provide expert testimony to our judicial system. Among the many services that psychologists offer to the public, psychologists conduct individual and group therapy with adults, adolescents, and children. Psychologists specialize in many fields, such as working with geriatric patients, those with chronic pain, and children/adults with attention deficit disorders.

How are psychologists trained and licensed?

Psychologists must meet very strict education and licensing requirements established by the State of California Board of Psychology in order to be permitted to provide psychological health care. Minimum standards for psychologists include graduation from an approved university or professional school of psychology with an earned doctoral degree in psychology, completion of from two to five or more years of supervised training, and the passing of the state licensing examination. The California licensing law requires that psychologists have no less than 36 Mandatory Continuing Education for Psychologists units every two years for license renewal.

Why is licensing important?

Licensing laws protect the consumer by ensuring that the psychologist has the appropriate qualifications, abides by the American Psychological Association Ethical Principles, and is answerable to consumer complaints and state regulatory agencies.