I have never really been completely aware of the differences between psychologist types. I have always just believed that a psychologist is a psychologist and has a broad knowledge of the field. I was wrong. I recently became a little more curious and discovered that there is quite a difference between the types of psychologists that we can see.

First off a clinical psychologist assesses the patients personality and tries to put in place preventative measures and treatments for mental and emotional disorders. Counseling psychologists facilitate personal and interpersonal functioning throughout the patients life span and assist them to function properly in different environments and situations.

I found this information most useful! Never again will I be confused as to who to call should I require the services of any type of psychologist!

Update: 28 July 2009

I thought that perhaps a break down of the different things the various types of psychologists can assist us with might be a vaulable addition to this hub:

Clinical Psychologists can assist with the following problems (these are just suggestions):

• Difficulties coping with the news of dread diseases or eminent loss of life
• Dealing with anger towards  being ill or suffering
• Anxiety, panic attacks and phobias
• Dealing with a bad self image
• Dealing with death and loss of a loved one
• Difficulties experienced from being disabled or deformed

Counseling psychologists can assist with the following (these are suggestions):

• Acknowledge downfalls and issues and assist in setting realistic goals and game plans to overcome these downfalls.
• Gather info and research individuals and groups behaviours
• Help work through difficult memories or failures in life
• Assist patients with coming to terms with confused emotions and feelings

I certainly hope these help. If you feel there are more points that I have missed, please let me know and I will gladly add them! :)

Being in a rocky of difficult relationship, facing family differences and issues, understanding your child's problems and pitfalls can all be very daunting and tiring. Sometimes we need a little external help to give us that little push in the right direction or to help us figure out how to rectify where we might be going wrong.

I have often tried to face monumental problems in my life without the help of anyone else as I always felt that I am strong enough on my own. I have been very wrong and come short. It did not take long before I sought out the services of a counseling psychologist. Counseling psychologists are great at helping you face problems and work through them. Much the same as clinical psychologists and child psychologists specialise in helping patients within their area of expertise.

If you are looking to work through problems or assist a child, partner or friend through problems, then be sure to take on the professional help of a psychologist. Don't do it alone...get help from the best!