You have decided to pursue a psychology education. The next question is: "Clinical psychology or general psychology?" This choice shapes your career trajectory, the nature of your daily work, and even your income level. This article covers the key differences and criteria for making the right choice.
General Psychology — A Broad View
General psychology studies all aspects of human behaviour and mental processes:
- Cognitive psychology (memory, attention, language)
- Social psychology (group behaviour, relationships)
- Developmental psychology (childhood, adulthood, old age)
- Industrial-organisational psychology
- Educational psychology
- Sports psychology
What does a general psychologist do? Research, teaching, (non-clinical) counselling, HR, marketing, school psychology, sports psychology.
Fields of work:
- University (academic research)
- Corporate sector (HR, training, market research)
- School psychologist
- Public sector organisations (UNICEF, WHO)
- Assessment using certified psychometric tools
Clinical Psychology — The Medical Field
Clinical psychology assesses, diagnoses, and treats psychological disorders (depression, anxiety, PTSD, psychosis, addictions) through psychotherapy.
What does a clinical psychologist do?
- Clinical interview and assessment
- Standardised tests (MMPI, Rorschach, Beck Depression Inventory)
- Diagnosis (DSM-5, ICD-11)
- Psychotherapy (CBT, Gestalt, systemic therapy, EMDR)
- Crisis intervention
- Work within a multidisciplinary team (psychiatrist, social worker, paediatrician)
Fields of work:
- Private practice
- Psychiatric clinics and hospitals
- Rehabilitation centres
- Military and veterans' services
- Forensic psychology
- Oncology, palliative care
Key Differences
| Criterion | General | Clinical |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Typical human behaviour | Psychological disorders |
| Clients | General healthy population | Patients with clinical conditions |
| Diagnosis | No | Yes (DSM-5) |
| Medical setting | Rarely | Frequently |
| Training duration | 4–6 years | 6–8 years |
| Income | Depends on sector | Generally higher |
Which Should You Choose?
General psychology is a good fit if:
- You enjoy academic research
- You are interested in the corporate sector
- You prefer working with healthy individuals
- You are interested in education and teaching
- You do not want to work in a medical environment (hospital)
Clinical psychology is a good fit if:
- You want to work deeply with patients
- You are interested in psychological disorders
- You are prepared to work in a medical environment
- You want psychotherapy to be your main work
- You can handle a more intense emotional workload
A Hybrid Path
Some professionals obtain both general and clinical qualifications. This opens up broader career opportunities, but requires more time and financial investment.
At RAGIMOFF, this hybrid approach is possible: foundational General Psychology training followed by Clinical Psychology CPD. With two qualifications, all career paths are open.