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Clinical psychologists--the largest specialty of psychologists--assess, diagnose, treat, and prevent mental disorders. Some clinical psychologists help people with personal issues, such as divorce or death, but many also specialize in treating severe disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorders. Clinical psychologists can work in a variety of environments:

• Hospitals or Private practice
• Medical schools and Universities
• Physical rehabilitation centers
• Community mental health centers
• Crisis counseling centers
• Drug rehab facilities

How to Become a Clinical Psychologist

To become a clinical psychologist, you need a clinical psychology degree, usually a PhD in clinical psychology. A doctoral degree requires about five years of full-time graduate study. This includes a variety of clinical psychology classes and ends with a dissertation based on original research. A PhD degree may require practical work and tests instead of a dissertation. Clinical psychologists usually spend one year working while supervised by a more experienced clinical psychologist. In May 2008, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), released salary information for clinical psychologists:

• The median annual salary for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists--$64,140
• The middle 50 percent--$48,700 to $82,800.
• The lowest 10 percent--less than $37,900
• The highest 10 percent--more than $106,840

In 2008, about 170,000 clinical psychologists practiced in the U.S. The BLS predicts the job market for psychologists will rise about 12 percent over the next ten years.