Final answer:
Clinical psychologists engage in a variety of activities including diagnosing and treating psychological disturbances, conducting research, counseling, and providing psychological assessments. They work in diverse environments, from private practices to hospitals and academic settings. Licensure is crucial for clinical psychologists to practice, and their specialties can include several subfields like forensic or exercise psychology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The range of activities for a clinical psychologist includes various functions from diagnosing and treating psychological disorders to conducting scientific research and providing psychological assessments. A clinical psychologist may work in multiple settings such as private practices, hospitals, academic institutions, or even in sports and exercise domains. Licensing is essential for clinical psychologists to practice, which they can obtain after completing their education and passing a state licensure exam. Clinical psychologists also conduct therapy and counseling, administer psychological tests, and can engage in research activities. In contrast, psychiatrists, who can prescribe medication, have an MD rather than a PhD or PsyD.
Furthermore, clinical psychologists can specialize in numerous subfields like forensic psychology, sport and exercise psychology, or organizational psychology, demonstrating the extensive range of potential activities and fields of employment. Counseling psychologists, while closely related to clinical psychologists, often work with individuals who are considered psychologically healthy to improve various aspects of their lives. These professionals can contribute to service sectors such as education and community programs, and some may serve as faculty members in academic settings.