THE PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGIST AS A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER A Brief Introduction Psychology literally means "understanding the soul". The field of psychology has grown in scope to include the application of scientific knowledge and clinical skill to the healing and fulfillment of individuals, families and organizations. This page is intended to provide practical information about what psychology is, what it offers and how to use psychological services effectively. ASSURANCE OF COMPETENCE Education - In Alberta a psychologist must have at least a Masters Degree in Psychology from a recognized university. Many psychologists have a doctoral degree. The educational program includes extensive course work and practical experience under professional supervision. Training - In addition to their academic education, psychologists must complete 1600 hours of supervised practice in a psychological service. This combination of academic and experiential preparation is required for every area of practice which the psychologist plans to enter. Credentialing - In addition to the above training, the psychologists must have successfully completed a comprehensive written examination which is standardized throughout North America. In addition, the psychologist must successfully complete an oral examination through which actual practice skills are evaluated. Finally, the individual becomes a psychologist by being granted a charter by the College of Alberta Psychologists. ETHICAL BASE Alberta Psychologists are bound by the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists. This code spells out the practical application of four principles in providing services. Respect for the Dignity of Persons - "All persons have a right to have their innate worth as human beings appreciated." Responsible Caring - "Active concern for the wellbeing of any individual, family or group"...regardless of culture, race, religion, sexual gender, or preference, status, ability level, age, etc. Integrity in Relationships - "Professional relationships are characterized by fairness, impartiality, straight forwardness, avoidance of misrepresentation, avoidance of conflicts of interest and provisions of accurate information." Responsibility to Society - Psychology has a commitment to "increase knowledge [and to] conduct its affairs in such ways that it will promote the welfare of other human beings" with respect for the existing social structures. CONCERNS Anyone utilizing psychological services has a right to obtain assistance if there is a problem with the quality or ethics of the service being provided. For information and supportive discussion of the problem you may contact the Executive Director of the Psychologists Association of Alberta. If you wish to make a formal complaint you may contact the registrar of the College of Alberta Psychologists. CLINICAL SERVICES Professional psychologists offer a wide range of health care services to a variety of clients who are, for example: seeking personal growth, dealing with practical life problems or relationship issues, struggling with past abuse or neglect, coping with a chronic disability or suffering from a serious mental illness. Assessment -Tests, interviews and behavioural observations are utilized to determine what problems the client is having. Diagnosis - An individual s problems usually form a pattern which reveals the underlying cause or the key to intervention. This pattern is described in a diagnostic formulation. Prescription - Psychologists provide a treatment plan based on an understanding of what has gone wrong. Often parents, support services or other professionals can carry out parts of the recommended treatment. Treatment - Psychologists provide a variety of treatments which are generally described as psychotherapy or behaviour therapy. All forms of psychological therapy are designed to utilize the healing power within the individual or family, and to address the needs of the whole person. Support - Information and guidance are provided to assist individuals in their continued development and in preventing recurrence of past problems. OTHER PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES Psychologists provide services to individuals as well as to pairs or groups of people such as couples, families or organizations. Consultation - Psychologists assist various organizations in improving their effectiveness, planning programs and improving efficiency. Community development is an example of consultation with a large organization. Education - Psychology relies on science and experience as major sources of professional knowledge. This knowledge is shared in a variety of educational forums made available to recipients of psychological services, the public and other health care professionals. Research - Psychology is constantly seeking to increase our knowledge through theoretical and practical research. The development of new services often depends on a study of the needs of the community and identification of gaps in resources. PROGRAMS OFFERING PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES Clinical services are often offered directly to individuals, couples, families or other groups. The client and the psychologist establish their own agreement as to what services are needed and what commitments each party will make. Individual and family therapy may be enhanced through the use of group therapy. In addition to this direct "clinical" way of providing services, psychologists may also utilize a variety of programs which coordinate the psychologist s work with other community resources. Examples of psychological programs include the following: Child Sexual Abuse - This program provides a coordinated way of responding to child sexual abuse in the community. Family Violence - These programs address the problem of spousal assault, elder abuse and violent child abuse. Employee Assistance - These programs are designed to assist employees and the employer to deal cooperatively with behavioural health problems which affect the individual s ability to perform on the job. Forensic - A variety of programs address the behavioural and underlying problems experienced by criminal offenders and their families. Psycho-educational - School based programs help to identify and correct learning problems resulting form mental, emotional or social difficulties. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A PSYCHOLOGIST When you see a psychologist you are contracting to receive a professional service. It is important to explain directly what service you need or what problems you need to address. Ask for the psychologist s credentials, listing experience and skills which may be helpful to you. It is your decision whether or not to retain the services of this professional. If you decide to do so, work with the psychologist as a member of a team. Keep communication open about any problems or concerns which arise and try to plan ahead for termination of service. As you work with the psychologist, you will establish a therapeutic relationship which involves trust, openness and caring. This is a special relationship designed to help you in your healing or growth work. The relationship must be honoured by both parties. When it is time to end this relationship, say good-bye freely. You are ready for the next part in life s journey.
Arch Psychological Services is Edmonton-based company (Alberta, Canada) with a phone number 7804289223. Our data show that the company is located at the address: 106 St. Bldg 9912. The company has a web site: www.archpsychological.com.
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