Everything You Need to Know About Psychologists

As awareness about mental health grows, psychologists are playing a vital role in addressing stress, anxiety, trauma, and other emotional challenges in everyday life.

Who Is a Psychologist?

A psychologist is a trained mental health professional who studies behaviour and mental processes. They help people manage emotional and psychological challenges through therapies, assessments, and guidance.  

Unlike psychiatrists, they do not prescribe medication. Psychologists work in clinics, hospitals, schools, or private practice to support individuals across all ages.  

What is a clinical psychologist?

Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders using therapy-based approaches. They often work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or severe psychological distress.  

Through structured interventions like CBT, they help improve coping skills and overall well-being. They hold advanced degrees and follow ethical guidelines in clinical practice.  

Difference Between a Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Counsellor and Therapist

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Qualification of a Psychologist

To become a psychologist in India, one must complete a bachelor’s and master's in psychology. Clinical psychologists additionally require an MPhil in Clinical Psychology or a PsyD, recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI).  

Practical training, internships, and registration ensure psychologists are ethically equipped to diagnose and support mental health concerns.

Types of Psychologists

Not all psychologists are the same, each one brings a unique approach to understanding and supporting your mental health journey.

Clinical psychologists

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and personality disorders.  

They use structured, evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) to help individuals improve emotional regulation, thought patterns, and overall psychological well-being.  

Counselling psychologists

Counselling psychologists support individuals dealing with stress, life transitions, relationship problems, and emotional conflict. They focus on enhancing personal strengths, coping mechanisms, and self-awareness through talk therapy, goal setting, and active listening in both short-term and long-term therapy settings.  

Educational Psychologists

Educational psychologists work with children, parents, and teachers to address learning difficulties, attention issues, and school-based behavioural concerns.  

They conduct psychological assessments and develop tailored educational plans to help students reach their academic potential and improve their emotional well-being in learning environments.  

Industrial-Organisational Psychologists

These psychologists apply psychological theories to improve employee satisfaction, team performance, and leadership strategies in workplaces.  

They conduct surveys, training, and conflict resolution programs, helping businesses enhance productivity, reduce stress, and build healthier organisational cultures.  

Health psychologists

Health psychologists study how behaviours and mindsets affect physical health outcomes.  

They support individuals coping with chronic illnesses, pain, or lifestyle-related conditions by promoting behavioural changes, emotional resilience, and stress management in medical settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centres, or wellness clinics.  

Neuropsychologists

Neuropsychologists assess and treat individuals with brain injuries, strokes, neurological disorders, or developmental conditions.  

Using cognitive testing and behavioural observation, they identify memory, attention, or perception impairments and create rehabilitation strategies to support recovery and daily functioning.  

What Does a Psychologist Do?

Psychologists assess emotional, behavioural, and cognitive patterns to understand what a person is experiencing. They use interviews, tests, and observations to diagnose conditions and provide therapy. Their work focuses on improving mental well-being through supportive, structured, and evidence-based interventions.  

Common Conditions Treated by Psychologists

Psychologists support individuals across age groups facing emotional, cognitive, and behavioural challenges.

Behavioural and Emotional Issues

Psychologists help manage anger, mood swings, impulsivity, and emotional outbursts. These issues can interfere with relationships, academics, or work and often need therapeutic support to improve emotional regulation and behavioural control.  

Coping with Life Changes and Stressors

Major life events, such as divorce, job loss, relocation, or loss, can cause overwhelming stress. Psychologists offer coping strategies, helping individuals adjust, process emotions, and regain a sense of stability and control.  

Abuse and Trauma

Survivors of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse often face deep psychological distress. Psychologists use trauma-informed therapies to help individuals process memories, rebuild safety, and recover from the emotional effects of trauma.  

Developmental Challenges

Psychologists support children with developmental delays, autism, ADHD, or intellectual disabilities. They help improve communication, behaviour, and learning using structured assessments and early intervention techniques.  

Depression and Anxiety

Psychologists diagnose and treat depression, generalised anxiety, and panic disorders. Through therapy, individuals learn to manage symptoms, challenge negative thoughts, and build emotional resilience.  

Phobias and OCD

Phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder can severely impact daily life. Psychologists use exposure therapy and cognitive restructuring to reduce fear-based behaviours and intrusive thought cycles.  

PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder affects those exposed to intense trauma. Psychologists use therapies like CBT or EMDR to address flashbacks, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness.  

Identity and Self-Esteem Issues

Challenges with self-worth, identity, or personal growth can affect confidence and decision-making. Psychologists support individuals in exploring beliefs, values, and self-perception through therapy.  

Eating and Sleep Disorders

Psychologists treat disorders like anorexia, binge-eating, insomnia, or hypersomnia. They address underlying emotional triggers and teach healthier coping patterns for food and rest.  

Social and Relationship Issues

Psychologists help individuals struggling with communication, trust, or conflict in personal or professional relationships. Therapy improves empathy, boundary-setting, and emotional expression.  

When to See a Psychologist Near You

Consider seeing a psychologist if you're feeling persistently anxious, low, overwhelmed, or unable to manage daily stress. Sudden behaviour changes, trauma, sleep or appetite issues, or difficulty coping with relationships can also be signs. Early support leads to better outcomes. You don’t need to wait for a crisis to seek help.  

How to Prepare for Your Psychologist Appointment

Before your session, reflect on what’s been troubling you, moods, thoughts, recent events, or symptoms. Write down key concerns or questions. Be honest, even if it feels uncomfortable.  

Bring any relevant medical or therapy records. Most importantly, come with an open mind. Therapy is a safe, non-judgemental space to explore and understand yourself.

What to Expect During a Session with a Psychologist

Your first session often involves a detailed conversation about your concerns, symptoms, personal history, and goals. The psychologist will ask questions to understand your situation and may conduct assessments.  

Follow-up sessions focus on therapy, progress tracking, and building strategies to improve emotional well-being over time. It's a safe, structured, and collaborative process.  

Effective Treatment Approaches Used by Psychologists

Psychologists use evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual’s needs and mental health condition.  

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that affect emotions and behaviours. By breaking the cycle of distorted thinking, it supports healthier responses and habits.  

It is widely used to treat anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, and more. CBT is structured, short-term, and goal-focused, often showing results within weeks.  

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

This approach combines cognitive techniques with mindfulness practices like breathing and meditation. It helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and reduce reactivity.  

Commonly used for stress, anxiety, and depression, it promotes present-moment awareness and emotional regulation.  

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a structured form of therapy designed for individuals with intense emotions, self-harm behaviours, or borderline personality disorder. It blends cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.  

Sessions may include individual therapy and group skills training.  

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT helps individuals accept painful thoughts and feelings rather than avoiding them. Through mindfulness and value-based action, clients learn to build psychological flexibility.  

ACT is effective in managing anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic pain. It focuses on living meaningfully despite discomfort.

Psychodynamic Therapy

This long-term therapy explores unconscious patterns rooted in childhood that influence present behaviour. Through reflection and the therapist-client relationship, individuals gain insight into emotional conflicts, defence mechanisms, and unresolved issues. It supports deep, lasting change.  

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

IPT is a time-limited therapy focused on improving communication and relationship patterns. It helps individuals address unresolved grief, role transitions, interpersonal conflicts, or social isolation.  

IPT is effective in treating depression, especially when linked to life events or relational distress.

Comprehensive Psychological Treatment and Support Services at Cadabam's

Cadabam’s offers holistic mental health care through tailored therapies, diagnostics, and recovery-focused programs.  

Personalised Treatment Plans

Each person’s journey is unique. Our psychologists create customised care plans based on diagnosis, goals, and individual needs, combining therapy, assessments, and lifestyle guidance. This ensures targeted, effective support for sustainable recovery across a range of mental health concerns.  

Outpatient Consultations

Cadabam’s offers flexible outpatient services for individuals seeking therapy without hospitalisation. Regular sessions are scheduled with licensed psychologists, allowing clients to receive ongoing support while continuing with daily life.  

It’s ideal for mild to moderate concerns and long-term mental wellness.  

Inpatient Programs

Our residential programs provide round-the-clock psychological support in a safe, structured environment for those needing intensive care. Multidisciplinary teams work closely with individuals to stabilise symptoms, begin therapy, and develop recovery goals in a focused therapeutic setting.  

Rehabilitation Services

Cadabam’s rehabilitation services support individuals with chronic or relapsing mental health conditions. Through therapy, vocational training, daily routine building, and social reintegration, the program helps individuals regain function and confidence while preparing for independent living.  

How to Choose the Right Psychologist Near You

Finding the right psychologist depends on your concerns, preferences, and therapy goals.  

Consider Your Needs

Start by identifying the challenges you want to address, whether it’s anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, or career stress. This helps narrow your search to psychologists with experience in those areas. Also, think about therapy formats, individual, couples, or family sessions, that suit your comfort.  

Check Qualifications and Specialisations

Ensure the psychologist is licensed and has a master’s or doctoral degree in psychology. Look for credentials recognised by RCI or relevant boards. Specialisations in clinical psychology, child psychology, or neuropsychology can make a difference, depending on your condition and age group.  

Read Reviews and Get Referrals

Online testimonials and verified reviews can offer insights into a psychologist’s approach and effectiveness. Ask your doctor, friends, or family for trusted referrals. A good therapeutic relationship matters, so don’t hesitate to book an initial consultation before deciding.  

Why Choose Cadabam’s for Expert Psychological Care?

Cadabam’s offers expert-led, evidence-based mental health care with a legacy of trust and excellence.  

Our Vision and Mission

At Cadabam’s, we aim to make mental health care accessible, personalised, and stigma-free. Our mission is to guide individuals toward recovery through empathy, innovation, and comprehensive psychological support—so they can lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.  

Facilities & Services at Cadabam's for Mental Health

We offer outpatient therapy, inpatient care, diagnostics, rehab, and 24/7 crisis support. Cadabam’s centres are designed for comfort, privacy, and healing—led by qualified psychologists and supported by multidisciplinary teams for holistic recovery.  

Flexible Appointment Scheduling

Mental health care should adapt to your life. Cadabam’s offers flexible appointments across online and in-person formats, including early morning, evening, and weekend slots—so care fits your schedule, not the other way around.  

Confidential and Compassionate Care

Your privacy matters. Every conversation is held in confidence, with care that is respectful, non-judgemental, and tailored to your pace. Our psychologists ensure a safe space where you can speak freely and heal deeply.  

Emergency Services

For individuals in acute distress, our 24/7 emergency mental health services offer immediate evaluation, stabilisation, and care coordination. From helpline support to in-person intervention, we’re here when you need urgent psychological help the most.  

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Unlock a Healthier Mind with Support from Cadabam's Psychologists.

Your mind deserves care, just like your body. Whether you're facing daily stress, emotional overwhelm, or complex mental health concerns, Cadabam’s psychologists are here to help. With proven therapies, compassionate guidance, and personalised care, we walk with you every step of the way. Start your journey to healing today.