How to pursue a career in Clinical Psychology in India: Courses, eligibility, and opportunities

Robust mental health is of paramount importance for leading a balanced, fulfilling life. Unfortunately, mental well-being often takes a backseat in India, the world’s most populous country. The statistics are alarming, with only 0.07 clinical psychologists available for every 100,000 people in India. In contrast, Australia has 103 clinical psychologists for the same population size. This glaring disparity highlights India’s need for more professionals in the field. To bridge this gap, raising awareness about clinical psychology courses and career opportunities is essential.

The new four-year professional degree program
The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) regulates clinical psychology education. According to new RCI guidelines, a person now needs six years of study after Class XII to become a registered clinical psychologist, compared to the previous seven-year requirement. Earlier, this pathway included three years for a bachelor’s degree, two years for post-graduation, and two more for MPhil.

However, under the National Education Policy 2020, RCI is set to introduce a four-year B.Sc. Psychology (Hons.) program. Unlike existing B.A./B.Sc. psychology courses offered by Arts and Science colleges, the new program will require RCI recognition and clinical facilities. The new professional degree will be launched in the next academic year, and students can register as clinical psychologists after completing this program and a two-year Master of Psychology (MPsy), which replaces the M.Phil. program.

Eligibility criteria for BSc Psychology (Hons.)
There’s also been a shift in eligibility for psychology degrees. Admission to the RCI-recognized BSc Psychology (Hons.) now requires students to have studied science with biology in Class XI and XII. Previously, students from humanities and commerce backgrounds could pursue BA/BS. psychology programs. Graduates of the BSc Psychology (Hons.) program can become RCI-recognized Counselling Psychologists (Mental Health), though guidelines for their registration are still being finalized.

Post Graduate programs in Clinical Psychology
Apart from the B.Sc. and MPsy programs, RCI also recognizes two postgraduate programs: the PG Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PGDCP) and the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD).

PG Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PGDCP)
Previously called the Professional Diploma for Clinical Psychology, this program qualifies graduates to work as clinical psychologists, though independent practice is not permitted.

Eligibility: A four-year psychology degree with 60% marks.

Four-year Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
The PsyD is the most advanced program in clinical psychology in India, granting eligibility to oversee research in the field.

Eligibility: BSc Psychology (Hons.). There’s also a third-year lateral entry option for those who have completed MPsy with 60% marks, or PGDCP graduates who passed their exams with 60% marks in their first attempt. PsyD graduates can also use the title “Dr.”

A comprehensive list of institutions offering PsyD programs can be found on the RCI website. Once the new four-year professional degree program is introduced, details will also be available on the same platform. For more information, visit rehabcouncil.nic.in.

Clinical psychologists vs. counselling psychologists
While both clinical and counselling psychologists work in the mental health field, their roles differ. Clinical psychologists primarily help individuals with mental health disorders. In contrast, counselling psychologists provide guidance for individuals facing challenges in areas like career, relationships, and personal growth, even if they don’t have clinical mental health issues.

By understanding the differences between these roles, aspiring psychologists can better choose a career path that aligns with their interests and goals.