Becoming a Clinical Psychologist in the Philippines

            Clinical psychology is one of the most interesting fields of specialization in the study of human behavior and mental processes. It is the area of specialization in psychology that delves into the conditions that are often considered unusual and/or maladaptive.  When we hear the word “clinical,” it often reminds us of situations that need some attention and treatment.  That is precisely what this term means when it is linked to the field of psychology. 

            Although most people trained in clinical psychology in the Philippines are often affiliated with universities and colleges as teachers, there is a growing group of specialists who are dedicated practitioners.  Whereas many of these specialists are found in hospital settings or in private practice, they can also work in other types of organizations that develop and maintain programs aimed at uplifting people’s mental wellbeing.  Essentially, the services that clinical psychologists provide include assessments using psychological tests, observations, and interviews, and interventions involving a wide array of modalities and techniques.  Clinical psychologists can conduct these services to individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations.  Depending on their exposure and training, they can cater to the needs of very young children (sometimes even infants and toddlers), adolescents, adults, and the elderly. 

            To be able to practice clinical psychology in the Philippines, one must first possess the appropriate education and training.  This would constitute a minimum master’s degree from a recognized educational institution.  Subjects offered in such programs include the following:  advanced personality psychology, advanced abnormal psychology, assessment techniques, and counseling and psychotherapy.  Requirements also include supervised practicum hours with actual clients, and the site is usually chosen by the individual.  This allows the individual to apply what one has studied in a supervised setting. 

            In my experience in practicing clinical psychology and supervising aspiring psychologists, the number of hours required by schools in supervised training is not enough to be able to practice independently.  As ours is an emerging field, there are also not very many qualified supervisors around.  In fact, there is no certification in existence for supervisors.  These can present as problematic areas in the practice of clinical psychology in the Philippines. 

            As the applied field develops and matures in our country, we will hopefully raise the quality of the practice.  One step towards this direction is the signing of Republic Act No. 10029 into law in March 2010 (see my entry dated 23 April 2010), which ensures the professionalization of Psychology in the Philippines.  Another is the establishment of the certification process in 6 areas of applied psychology by the Psychological Association of the Philippines in 2009 (see http://www.pap.org.ph/).  These somehow raise the bar in the practice of psychology in the Philippines. 

            As of yet, there are still no guidelines on how the law will be implemented in the practice of psychology.  I understand from the board of the Psychological Association of the Philippines that this process is soon to happen.  I will keep tab of news on this matter, and will post any updates.