field of clinical psychology: arriving at a definition, The

Canadian Psychology, May 1996 by Vallis, T Michael, Howes, Janice L

Several comments about this Definition are in order. First, we regard this Definition as a "living document", which reflects the current state of the profession. As we grow and develop further the Definition should, and will, be revised. Thus, this Definition is proposed to be an accurate description of clinical psychology at the present time, and is intended to stimulate development and encourage advocacy.

Second, this definition should not be considered to define clinical psychology to the exclusion of other professional groups within psychology (e.g., counselling psychology, clinical neuropsychology). Many of the skills, activities, and training of other professional psychology groups overlap with the skills, activities, and training of clinical psychologists.

Finally, this definition is in no way a legal or quasi - legal document. It is intended as a description of the field, and as a means of presenting the position of the Section on Clinical Psychology on issues relevant to clinical psychology, such as training standards. We clearly recognize that the regulation, and legal definition, of clinical psychology is the mandate of the provincial/territorial regulatory bodies. As a Section within the Canadian Psychological Association, the Section on Clinical Psychology exists to serve the needs/interests of clinical psychology and its Section Members. Similarly, this definition is intended to describe the extent of clinical psychology and in no way should it be taken to imply a limitation for other professional groups.

General Principles

Clinical psychology is a broad field of practice and research within the discipline of psychology, which applies psychological principles to the assessment, prevention, amelioration, and rehabilitation of psychological distress, disability, dysfunctional behaviour, and health - risk behaviour, and to the enhancement of psychological and physical well - being.

Clinical psychology includes both scientific research, focusing on the search for general principles, and clinical service, focusing on the study and care of clients, and information gathered from each of these activities influences practice and research.

Clinical psychology is a broad approach to human problems (both individual and interpersonal) consisting of assessment, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, program development, administration, and research with regard to numerous populations, including children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, families, groups, and disadvantaged persons. There is overlap between some areas of clinical psychology and other professional fields of psychology such as counselling psychology and clinical neuropsychology, as well as some professional fields outside of psychology, such as psychiatry and social work.

Clinical psychology is devoted to the principles of human welfare and professional conduct as outlined in the Canadian Psychological Association's Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists. According to this code the activities of clinical psychologists are directed toward: respect for the dignity of persons; responsible caring; integrity in relationships; and responsibility to society.