FAQ 問與答
What is "Clinical Psychological Service"?
"Clinical Psychological Service" is a kind of professional service provided by recognized clinical psychologists, who apply theories, researches and practices of psychology for assessment, treatment and prevention of psychological or psychiatric problems, including emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social and intellectual aspects, as well as personality and psychological development. Clinical psychologists also involve in psychological consultation, community education and scientific research.
What people consult "Clinical Psychological Service" for?
"Clinical Psychological Service" targets at persistent or excessive anxiety, worry, phobia, depression, insomnia, eating disorders and addictive behaviors. People also seek the service for emotional control, life stress, relationship problems, bereavement, adversities, and adjustment to life changes, accidents or illnesses, as long as these issues threaten their well-being, or impair their academic, occupational, family or social functioning.
What is "Psychological Assessment"?
Usually clinical psychologists would first conduct "Psychological Assessment" to understand the presenting problems and related factors. The assessment mainly hinges on clinical interview and systematic behavioral observation, supplemented by standardized psychometric tests if required. Besides, clinical psychologists conduct other assessments such as intelligence, personality, mental state, attention, memory, dyslexia and neuro-cognitive functioning.
What are the means of "Psychological Treatment"?
"Psychological Treatment" is treatment based on psychological theories and clinical research. Common psychological treatment approaches are cognitive-behavioral therapy, marital and family therapy, psychoanalytic therapy, supportive psychotherapy, etc. Psychological treatment could be conducted in individual, family or group basis. In accordance with needs of the individual and the presenting problem, clinical psychologists would apply suitable treatment approaches to alleviate psychological distress, enhance adaptation, modify thoughts, feelings and emotional reactions for the betterment of physical and psychological well-being.
What is the difference between "Clinical Psychologists" and "Psychiatrists"?
"Psychiatrists" are doctors of a medical specialty. They treat mental illnesses mostly by medication. Drugs balance brain neurotransmitters to regulate emotions, improve sleep, restore normal brain functioning, etc. "Clinical Psychologists" are a kind of psychologists instead of medical doctors. They apply psychological theories and practices to resolve problems or alleviate distress, in terms of emotions, thoughts, behaviors, environment, growth, etc.
How to choose a qualified "Clinical Psychologist"?
To become a “Registered Clinical Psychologist” of the “Hong Kong Psychological Society”, one must hold a recognized Bachelor Degree in Psychology, plus a Master or Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology. Clinical psychologists should fulfill professional requirements and qualified training, including clinical placements supervised by practicing clinical psychologists. Clinical Psychologists also need continued education in relation to the profession. (List of Private “Clinical Psychologists” Registered with “Hong Kong Psychological Society”)
Source of part of the above information: Division of Clinical Psychology, Hong Kong Psychological Society