Final answer:
A professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders is known as a clinical psychologist. Clinical psychologists provide therapy and may also be involved in research, while psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, and other related professionals also diagnose and treat mental health issues, often with different approaches.
Step-by-step explanation:
If someone specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders and everyday behavioural problems, they are likely a clinical psychologist. Clinical psychology is a specialization within psychology that is concerned with assessing and treating mental illnesses and behavioral issues. This field often involves applied work where clinicians provide therapy and other interventions to help individuals cope with a variety of psychological challenges. However, some clinical psychologists also engage in scientific research to better understand mental health issues and improve treatment methods.
Other professionals who may perform similar functions include psychiatrists, who are medical doctors with specialized training in mental health, and counseling psychologists, who focus on helping individuals with emotional, social, and vocational concerns. Both clinical psychologists and psychiatrists can diagnose and treat disorders, but their approaches and training differ significantly. Psychiatrists can prescribe medication, whereas clinical psychologists typically cannot and instead provide psychotherapy and other non-pharmacological treatments.
Those with a medical degree and a specialization in neuroscience might choose careers such as neuropsychologists, neuroscience nurses, or neurodiagnostic technicians, working directly with patients to diagnose and treat mental disorders.