What is a Clinical Psychologist?

A clinical psychologist is a mental health specialist who uses different intervention methodologies to help people improve their emotional well-being and quality of life.

When to attend?

There are many reasons to attend psychotherapy. Generally, people come in search of assistance that they have not found in other areas of their lives. Depending on the reason for the consultation and the type of therapy, the intervention may come in the form of support, information, counseling, self-knowledge and/or the space to learn and practice new tools.  

How do our psychologists work?

Your psychologist will conduct an assessment and propose a treatment that best addresses the emotional and behavioral difficulties that interfere with your well-being. You will speak one-on-one with a trained mental health professional for approximately 45 minutes. The number of sessions and frequency of therapy will depend on the reason for your consultation.

Individuals may attend therapy to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. To find out the reasons of what they do and what they feel, and to determine how much this affects their lives.

Individuals may attend therapy for help with their relationships. Individual, couple or family therapy can address a common source of distress, poor communication and/or difficulty resolving conflict. Some therapists are highly trained to help people communicate their needs and feelings assertively.

Therapy can provide a safe and supportive place for people to talk about grief, adjustment to physical illness, the end of a relationship or job, abuse issues, or any change in life circumstances that cause distress.

People struggling with depression, anxiety, phobias, addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, etc. may seek therapy to treat the problem and/or learn healthy ways of coping. In many cases, disorders are treated pharmacologically along with therapy.

What is a psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor specialized in mental health who, according to the person’s medical history, diagnoses and provides pharmacological treatment for psychiatric disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, schizophrenia, among others.

When to attend?

  • It is complex or difficult to diagnose.
  • It involves suicidal thoughts or plans.
  • It is severe or difficult to manage.
  • It requires medication that only a psychiatrist can prescribe.
  • The patient does not respond to standard treatment by their treating practitioner.

A Psychiatrist can:

  • Prescribe pharmacological treatment.
  • Give other non-pharmacological recommendations that are necessary for your recovery (exercise, sleep hygiene, rest, among others).
  • Provide emergency care for mental health disorders.
  • Help you manage a long-term mental health condition.
  • Refer you to other health professionals.
  • Indicate when hospitalization is necessary.
  • Provide second opinions and advice to other doctors and health professionals.