Typical Tasks
Collaborate with physicians, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurses, or other professionals to discuss treatment plans and progress.
Prescribe, direct, or administer psychotherapeutic treatments or medications to treat mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders.
Teach, take continuing education classes, attend conferences or seminars, or conduct research and publish findings to increase understanding of mental, emotional, or behavioral states or disorders.
Gather and maintain patient information and records, including social or medical history obtained from patients, relatives, or other professionals.
Design individualized care plans, using a variety of treatments.
A day in the life
What kind of work is this?
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Social
Working with people
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
What personality traits do you need to succeed?
Integrity
Concern for Others
Dependability
Stress Tolerance
Attention to Detail
Self-Control
What key skills are needed for this job?
Active Listening
Social Perceptiveness
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Writing
Expected Knowledge
Therapy and Counseling
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Common Activities
Assisting and Caring for Others
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
