Types of Psychologists: What Kinds of Specialists Are There

Contents:

• What types of psychological activity exist?
• What types of psychologists are there by specialty?
• Types of psychologists by area of ​​expertise?

What types of psychological activity exist

A psychologist and a psychiatrist are two different professions that often cause confusion. A psychiatrist is a physician who diagnoses mental disorders and is licensed to prescribe medications. A psychologist, on the other hand, does not have a medical education and cannot diagnose or prescribe medications. Psychologists work with clients using a variety of methods and techniques to help them address emotional and psychological issues, but their approach does not include medication. It's important to understand these differences so you can choose the right professional for your needs.

Only a psychiatrist can diagnose mental illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (BD), and borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as prescribe appropriate medications to alleviate symptoms.

Now let's look at psychology. There are three main areas of psychology: consulting psychologist, clinical psychologist, and psychotherapist. Each of these areas has its own characteristics and methods of work. A consulting psychologist focuses on helping people solve specific life problems and improve their quality of life. A clinical psychologist diagnoses and treats mental disorders using scientific methods. A psychotherapist works more deeply with clients, using various psychotherapeutic approaches to change patterns of thinking and behavior. These specialists play a vital role in maintaining mental health and well-being.

A counseling psychologist is a professional with a higher education in the humanities in psychology who provides talk therapy services. They work with clients without significant mental disorders, helping them cope with everyday stress, personal problems, and emotional difficulties. They use various techniques to improve their clients' psychological well-being and quality of life.

The knowledge and responsibilities of specialists in psychological counseling are subject to strict standards set out in the professional standard published by the Ministry of Labor in 2022. According to this document, higher education is mandatory for counseling psychologists. However, in practice, it is possible to become a practicing psychologist through professional retraining courses. While it may be difficult to find employment in government agencies with such a diploma, it is still a possible path for private practice.

A psychologist's responsibilities include active listening, asking probing questions, and providing the necessary knowledge base to help a person:

understand their feelings and thoughts, navigate difficult life situations, develop self-regulation skills, and improve psychological well-being. A psychologist helps clients find their own solutions and strategies for overcoming difficulties, which contributes to personal growth and an improved quality of life.

• found a way out of a difficult situation;
• coped with stress;
• resolved an internal conflict;
• saved a relationship that had broken down or decided to break up;
• found motivation for development;
• learned to behave productively in conflicts;
• figured out what and why they are feeling;
• mastered the skill of managing (not suppressing!) emotions.

Counseling psychologists provide support and assistance during crisis moments in life. They are approached by people experiencing burnout, experiencing betrayal, loss, or facing the fear of not coping with work responsibilities. These specialists help cope with emotional and psychological difficulties, providing the necessary support and tools for recovery. Contacting a psychologist can be an important step towards improving your psycho-emotional state and finding ways to resolve difficult life situations.

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Contacting a psychologist can be difficult for many people. There are several reasons why we avoid the help of mental health professionals. Firstly, the fear of judgment and stigma associated with mental disorders can deter us from seeking help. Secondly, many people underestimate the severity of their problems and believe that they can cope on their own. The third reason is the lack of information about how the consultation proceeds and what results can be expected. The fourth reason is financial constraints: not everyone is ready to invest in psychotherapy. The fifth reason is stereotypes about psychotherapy, which can create the false impression that it is only for the "weak". The sixth reason is lack of time, which many people consider an important factor in their lives. The seventh reason is uncertainty in choosing a specialist, which can cause fear before the first visit. Finally, the eighteenth reason is emotional vulnerability, when admitting the need for help is perceived as weakness. Understanding these causes can help us overcome internal barriers and take the first step toward improving our mental health.

If a person frequently experiences mood swings and persistent anxious thoughts, they should consider seeing a different type of psychologist. Professional help can significantly impact emotional management and the elimination of negative thoughts. Psychology specialists can help understand the causes of anxiety and offer effective methods for improving your psycho-emotional state. Don't ignore your worries, as seeing a psychologist can be an important step toward harmony and inner peace.

Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat emotional and behavioral disorders, as defined by the American Psychological Association. Consulting a clinical psychologist is recommended for issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, interpersonal relationship problems, and stressful situations that interfere with everyday life. Consulting a specialist can help in understanding and overcoming these difficulties, improving the overall psychological state and quality of life.

• vandalism, truancy and fear of school in children and adolescents;
• increased anxiety or aggression;
• intense reaction to stress;
• self-harm;
• uncontrollable outbursts of anger;
• excessive tearfulness lasting more than a week;
• sleep and appetite disturbances;
• inadequate (disproportionate to the occasion) emotional reactions;
• bad habits that have become a way to relieve stress (for example, the habit of nail biting, workaholism or gambling addiction).

Clinical psychologists are professionals with higher education in the field of clinical psychology. They may have a bachelor's or master's degree after completing an undergraduate program in psychology. Despite the humanitarian nature of this specialty, there is no distance learning program for future clinical psychologists, similar to the requirements for physicians. Specialists in this field play a vital role in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders, as well as in providing psychological support to people with various emotional and behavioral problems.

A clinical psychologist specializes in helping people with diagnosed or suspected mental disorders, such as anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression. It is important to note that diagnosis is made by a psychiatrist, not a clinical psychologist. A clinical psychologist's work focuses on therapy and support for patients, enabling them to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Psychologists use a variety of methods and techniques to help people understand and overcome their problems, providing the necessary emotional support and guidance during the treatment process.

Mental health professionals often work In close collaboration. When a person consults a clinical psychologist with a suspected mental disorder, the psychologist conducts a preliminary assessment and, if necessary, refers the patient to a psychiatrist for an accurate diagnosis. After diagnosis, the psychiatrist may prescribe medication and refer the patient back to the clinical psychologist for continued therapy. Effective treatment for mental disorders typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. If the clinical psychologist notices that the prescribed medications are not producing the expected results, they refer the patient back to the psychiatrist for treatment adjustments. The coordinated work of these specialists ensures higher quality treatment and improves the condition of patients.

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A clinical psychologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats psychological disorders. They help people cope with emotional and mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, stress, and other disorders. A clinical psychologist uses scientific methods and techniques to understand how internal and external factors influence a patient's mental state.

A clinical psychologist's work includes individual consultations and group therapy. They conduct psychological tests and assessments to identify problems and develop an effective treatment plan. It is important to note that a clinical psychologist does not prescribe medications, but may work closely with psychiatrists and other medical professionals.

If you are experiencing emotional difficulties or mental disorders, a consultation with a clinical psychologist can be the first step toward recovery and improving your quality of life.

According to legislation in Russia from 2023, a physician who has completed a residency in psychotherapy or has a higher education in psychiatry and professional retraining can be considered a psychotherapist. However, in practice, there is considerable ambiguity and confusion regarding the qualifications and competencies of specialists in this field. It is important to understand that to become a psychotherapist, you must undergo specialized training, but this does not always mean you have sufficient experience and knowledge to work effectively with patients.

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• A medical psychotherapist is a doctor (usually a psychiatrist) who has completed a residency or received an academic degree in psychotherapy;
• A non-medical psychotherapist is a specialist with a higher psychological education who, after university, additionally trained in a specific method, for example, cognitive behavioral therapy or psychoanalysis.

A non-medical psychotherapist and a consulting psychologist both work with people who do not have serious mental illnesses. However, there are important differences between them. Nikolai Linde, a candidate of psychological sciences and professor at the Moscow Institute of Psychoanalysis, describes these nuances in his book, "Psychological Counseling: Theory and Practice." A non-medical psychotherapist focuses on using psychotherapeutic methods to improve the psychological state of clients, while a consulting psychologist is more focused on providing recommendations and support in solving personal problems. This difference is important to consider when choosing a specialist who meets the client's needs.

• Counseling primarily involves rational work with a conscious and interested client. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, works more with the unconscious and irrational aspects of an individual's mental life.
• Counseling largely involves advice and decisions coming from a psychologist, education, information, and explanation. <…> Psychotherapy is more focused on corrective tasks. <…>
• Psychotherapy is longer-term. It is divided into long-term (from 100 to 400 sessions) and short-term (from 10 to 30 meetings). Counseling usually takes one or two meetings or up to ten meetings.
• Psychotherapy is more specialized. Firstly, a psychotherapist usually works within the framework of a particular therapeutic school. Secondly, he usually specializes in a certain area of ​​psychological problems. For example, he can work exclusively with alcohol addiction or treat phobias, and so on. A consulting psychologist often works as a "country doctor" who can face a wide variety of problems and must be able to navigate unforeseen cases.

In Nikolai Linde's book, it is recommended to use the terms "consulting psychologist", "psychologist", "psychotherapist", and also the abbreviated "therapist" They are often used interchangeably. In everyday conversations, many people also overlook the differences between psychotherapy and psychological counseling. This can lead to confusion, as each practice has its own characteristics and methods. Understanding these differences is important for choosing the right professional and receiving quality mental health care. In this article, we will discuss counseling psychologists and psychotherapists, commonly referred to as non-medical professionals abroad. We will examine their role in psychotherapy, their methods, and how they differ from traditional psychiatrists. Counseling psychologists offer support and assistance in addressing emotional and psychological issues, using various approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, and others. It is important to understand how these specialists can help improve mental health and enhance quality of life.

What types of psychologists are there by specialty?

Psychology includes many work areas, and among them the most common category is private psychologists. We have already discussed their main responsibilities. Now let's take a closer look at eight other popular specialties in the field of psychology.

Raising children, joint emigration, managing a joint budget, and dividing household responsibilities are just some of the reasons why you should contact a family psychologist. A specialist in this field helps spouses establish communication, listen to each other, and understand why it is worth maintaining a relationship. A psychologist also helps consider the question: is it worth continuing on a joint path. Contacting a family psychologist can be an important step towards harmony and mutual understanding in the family.

A family psychologist is necessary not only for couples, but also for parents with children. A specialist can help resolve intergenerational conflicts. The age of the parties involved is irrelevant: sometimes problems arise even in relationships where the elders have become grandparents. Psychological support helps improve communication and mutual understanding within the family.

Family psychologists help family members identify the true causes of frequent conflicts. Scattered socks are usually not the cause of a marriage breakdown—they are merely a superficial pretext for arguments. The real sources of discontent can be: a lack of attention, a lack of mutual understanding, unresolved financial issues, or emotional distance between partners. Understanding the roots of conflicts helps build stronger and more harmonious relationships within the family.

• A woman or man feels that their efforts to clean up are not appreciated;
• A lack of attention and care between spouses;
• Financial inequality, in which cleaning falls on the one who earns less;
• Emotional burnout, due to which any trifle becomes a reason for divorce.

Family psychology specialists teach clients the technique of "I-messages," which allows them to clearly and without aggressive accusations express their thoughts and desires to loved ones. This effective form of communication is especially important in families with children, as it helps create open and trusting communication, promoting better understanding and strengthening family ties. Mastering "I" messages can significantly improve the family atmosphere and reduce conflict.

Instead of saying, "You're driving me crazy," a more constructive approach is to use "I" messages, such as, "I feel angry when..." It's important to explain in detail what exactly triggers your negative emotions and also express your expectations for future situations. This will help avoid conflicts and improve mutual understanding.

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The I-Message Technique: Definition and Application

I-messages are an effective way of communication that allows you to express your feelings and needs without accusations and conflict. This technique helps improve mutual understanding in personal and professional relationships.

The basic principle of I-messages is to use the first person when describing your emotions and reactions. Instead of blaming the other person, you share your feelings and perception of the situation. For example, instead of saying, "You never listen to me," you could say, "I feel ignored when my words go unanswered." This helps avoid defensiveness and promotes a more open dialogue.

To use I-messages effectively, follow a few simple steps. First, identify your feelings and needs. Then, formulate your message, starting with "I," and explain what specifically is causing you concern. Conclude the message with a suggestion on how the situation can be improved. For example: "I get upset when we don't discuss important issues." I'd like us to find time to have an open conversation.

Applying "I" messages in your daily life can significantly improve the quality of communication and reduce stress in your relationships. Use this technique to build stronger connections, foster mutual understanding, and resolve conflicts constructively.

A specialist with a background in psychology and professional retraining in "Sexual Relationship Counseling" offers qualified assistance. In their work, they take into account the individual characteristics of their clients and create a comfortable atmosphere for discussing intimate topics. With a deep knowledge of psychology, the specialist helps understand complex situations related to sexual relationships and provides recommendations for improving them.

A sex therapist and a sexologist perform different functions in the field of sexual health. A sexologist is a medical specialist with a higher education who has the right to make diagnoses, prescribe treatment, and prescribe medications. They may refer the patient to other doctors, such as a urologist, gynecologist, or endocrinologist, for a more comprehensive approach to addressing sexual issues.

A sex therapist, in turn, focuses on talk therapy and uses psychological support methods to address sexual dysfunctions and problems. The main goal of a sex therapist is to help clients understand their feelings, experiences, and relationships, and to offer strategies for improving their sex life.

• to help a person establish contact with their body, accept its characteristics and shortcomings;
• to teach partners to talk with each other about intimate desires and fetishes;
• to encourage the client to think about what exactly they are looking for in sex (physical pleasure, intimacy, a way to relieve stress and release emotions);
• to accompany a person on the path to overcoming stereotypes and limitations imposed by culture and upbringing.

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Sex Therapist: Who They Are and What Issues Do People Seek Them For?

A sex therapist is a specialist in psychology and sexual health who helps people address issues related to intimacy. These therapists are often consulted for help with restoring sexual function, overcoming sexual dysfunctions, improving relationships, and developing sexual harmony. A sex therapist works with various aspects of sexuality, including low libido, erectile dysfunction, pain during intercourse, and issues related to sexual orientation and identity.

Clients can seek sex therapy individually or as a couple. During the work process, the specialist helps identify the root causes of problems and offers effective solutions. This may include both conversational techniques and practical exercises aimed at improving mutual understanding and satisfaction in sexual life.

Sex therapy can be useful not only for solving specific problems but also for improving overall quality of life, self-esteem, and self-confidence. Seeking a sex therapist is an important step toward a more harmonious and satisfying relationship. A child psychologist's responsibilities encompass a wide range of areas aimed at supporting and developing children. Their primary goal is to assess the child's psychological state, identifying potential problems and identifying solutions. The psychologist works to develop emotional intelligence, helping children cope with stress, develop communication skills, and build self-confidence. Counseling parents so they can better understand their children's behavior and needs is also important. It is important for the psychologist to create a safe and trusting space for the child, where they can openly share their experiences. The psychologist may conduct art therapy, play therapy, and other methods that promote creativity and self-expression. Thus, a child psychologist plays an important role in the formation of a healthy psyche and the harmonious development of a child.

• helping the child adapt to new things and cope with emotions and fears;

• helping develop memory, attention, and imagination;
• helping parents create harmonious relationships with their children;
• correcting bad habits and destructive behavior in children (from biting nails to a passion for breaking toys and throwing books in protest), and so on.

If your child requires the help of a specialist, this does not mean that the parents are not coping with the tasks of upbringing. It is important to understand that psychologists of various fields undergo many years of training to provide qualified support and assistance to a variety of people. Contacting a specialist can be an important step towards improving the emotional state and development of the child.

The experience and knowledge of specialists are necessary in situations where parental love, care, and attention cannot fully satisfy the child's needs to adapt to the world around him. In such cases, seeking help is not only not shameful but also a natural and responsible step. The right support can significantly facilitate the adaptation process and promote a child's normal development.

A clinical child psychologist is a specialist who works with children with diagnosed mental health issues. Becoming such a professional requires a specialized higher education, similar to that required for clinical psychologists. These specialists help children cope with emotional and psychological difficulties, providing support and developing individualized treatment methods.

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Punishment of children: impact and possible benefits

Punishment of children is a topic that causes a lot of controversy among parents and teachers. The question of how punishment affects child development and whether it can be beneficial remains relevant. On the one hand, punishment can help set boundaries and teach children responsibility for their actions. On the other hand, excessive or improperly applied punishment can lead to negative consequences, such as fear, aggression, or self-esteem issues.

Research shows that gentle forms of punishment, such as temporarily revoking privileges or explaining the consequences of misbehavior, can be more effective than physical or emotional punishment. It is important to remember that the goal of punishment should not be to inflict pain, but to help the child understand what behavior is unacceptable.

It is also worth noting that alternative approaches, such as positive reinforcement and example-based education, may be more effective in the long term. Focusing on developing self-control and responsibility skills in children can lead to more harmonious family relationships and better educational outcomes.

Thus, punishing children is a complex issue that requires a careful approach. Proper application of discipline methods can promote healthy behavior and emotional resilience in children. Psychologists in educational institutions play a vital role in creating a comfortable atmosphere for all participants in the educational process. Their primary goal is to ensure the psychological well-being of students and school staff, which contributes to more effective learning and development. Professional psychologists help resolve conflicts, provide support in difficult situations, and foster a positive microclimate within the educational institution. Most school psychologists receive training in Psychology and Pedagogy or graduate from psychology departments at pedagogical universities. However, other specialists, such as social or clinical psychologists who have completed advanced training in educational psychology, can also serve as school psychological counselors. This allows us to expand the range of professionals who can support students and teachers, providing a broader approach to solving psychological problems in the educational environment.

School psychologists play an important role in the educational system. They help students cope with psychological difficulties, develop emotional intelligence, and contribute to improving the overall classroom climate. Their work includes individual consultations, support groups, and bullying prevention programs. School psychologists also collaborate with parents and teachers, training them in methods to support children in their learning and socialization. The main goal of their work is Create a safe and supportive environment for all students, which ultimately contributes to their successful learning and development.

• Conduct surveys of students and teachers to identify potential points of tension;
• Talk to high school students about their career and university choices;
• Converse with those who violate discipline;
• Build relationships between teachers and their students;
• Help newcomers adapt to a new environment;
• Prevent bullying;
• Communicate with parents of children who need support.

The specific nature of psychologists' work is that they sometimes have to interact with people who do not want it. Unlike private psychologists, clients of school psychologists do not always come of their own free will. Therefore, it is important to be prepared for such situations and be able to find an approach to each person. Psychological support in an educational environment requires a special approach and skills to create a trusting atmosphere and help students open up. Corporate psychologists specialize in working with teams rather than individual clients. Their expertise in group dynamics allows them to effectively support employee mental health, which in turn contributes to increased productivity and business stability. These specialists use their knowledge to create a harmonious work environment, which helps prevent burnout and reduce stress among employees. Thus, corporate psychologists play a key role in preserving the value of human capital and the financial stability of companies. Canadian researchers have found that manager burnout negatively impacts a team's ability to adapt to change. In a volatile market, it is difficult for a business to survive without rapid change. Therefore, one of the key tasks of a corporate psychologist is to support employees in overcoming burnout. They should contribute to the creation of a healthy work atmosphere, which will improve the overall effectiveness of the team and its readiness to implement change. A corporate psychologist also works to develop strategies aimed at reducing stress and improving the emotional state of employees, which in turn contributes to the resilience of the business in a changing environment.

• monitor the negative emotional state of managers and prevent burnout;
• identify the characteristics of different team members and help them realize their maximum potential;
• provide employees with "on-call" psychological support to maintain the general emotional background of the team;
• collaborate with the HR department in the process of hiring new employees;
• develop scenarios for team buildings, corporate events, and other unifying events.

Industrial organizational psychology is an important area of ​​psychological practice aimed at studying the behavior of people in the work environment. Specialists in this field examine how psychological factors influence productivity, job satisfaction, and interaction between employees. They help organizations optimize work processes, improve the atmosphere in the team, and increase overall work efficiency. The primary responsibilities of industrial-organizational psychologists include developing methods for assessing and selecting personnel, creating training and development programs, and implementing strategies to increase employee motivation and engagement. Professionals in this field play a key role in creating a successful and productive work environment, which contributes to the achievement of business goals.

• participate in the formation of work teams;
• develop training and motivation programs for employees;
• evaluate team effectiveness;
• analyze the behavior of consumers and the product's target audience.

Specialists who focus solely on this are called marketing psychologists. This is a separate area of ​​psychology, which has its own characteristics and the necessary theoretical basis. Marketing psychologists study consumer behavior and apply psychological principles to create effective marketing strategies. This allows them to better understand customer needs and develop offers that will be truly interesting and in demand.

A person who helps others achieve victory plays a key role in the sports environment. Whether it's the ice, the race track, or the virtual world, every athlete and eSports player needs support. The pressure in the world of sports is significantly high, and having a reliable partner or mentor can be a decisive factor on the path to success. Support and motivation can help athletes cope with difficulties, overcome obstacles, and achieve their goals. A deep understanding of several key aspects is crucial in the professional work of a psychologist. A psychologist must be proficient in the theoretical and practical foundations of psychology and be able to apply this knowledge to the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. Furthermore, it is important to be proficient in psychological counseling and therapy techniques to effectively help clients resolve their problems. A psychologist must also be up-to-date on current research and trends in psychology, allowing them to utilize relevant approaches in their practice. Empathy, ethics, and communication skills play an important role in the work of a psychologist, as they contribute to the establishment of trusting relationships with clients and increase the effectiveness of therapy.

• in matters of forming and maintaining motivation;
• in the psychology of physical health and somatic symptoms;
• in team building and the philosophy of cohesion;
• in the topics of ambition and professional fulfillment;
• in the mechanisms that constitute competition and rivalry;
• in various psychological approaches (for example, in body-oriented or art therapy).

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Sports Psychologist: Interview with Victoria Borzenkova

Victoria Borzenkova, an experienced sports psychologist, shares her vision and methods of work in the field of sports psychology. The sports psychologist helps athletes achieve high results by overcoming psychological barriers and developing mental resilience.

In the interview, Victoria discusses key aspects of her work, including competition preparation, stress management, and recovery from failure. She emphasizes the importance of an individual approach to each athlete and the need to create a trusting atmosphere.

Victoria's methods include visualization, goal setting, and concentration development. These techniques not only help improve athletic performance but also contribute to the overall psycho-emotional state of athletes.

Sports psychology is becoming increasingly relevant in the world of sports, and the work of specialists like Victoria Borzenkova is crucial for the successful careers of athletes.

Social psychology is a field focused on working with vulnerable groups. Specialists in this field help people who have experienced difficult situations, such as refugees, the disabled, orphans, and the seriously ill. They provide support to those facing natural disasters, violence, or the loss of loved ones. The work of social psychologists requires great empathy and a willingness to understand others' pain in order to effectively help those in need.

Social psychologists play a vital role in a variety of settings, including schools and military institutions. In the military, methods for working with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are particularly relevant, highlighting the importance of their professional skills. Social psychologists also actively work in government agencies, where they participate in adoption procedures and provide support to lonely elderly people. These specialists help people cope with emotional difficulties, improving the overall psychological well-being of society.

With extremely high emotional stress, social psychologists' salaries often remain low. Despite this, many professionals continue their work because their primary priority is helping people. This work attracts those who are willing to put in the effort to support others, even if the financial rewards don't always meet expectations.

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The salary of a psychologist in Russia in 2024 is expected to be at a level that will depend on a number of factors, including region, work experience, and specialization. In large cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, the average income for psychologists can reach over 100,000 rubles per month. Meanwhile, in smaller towns, salaries can be significantly lower, ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 rubles.

The demand for psychologists in Russia continues to grow, driven by increasing awareness of the importance of mental health. Psychologists working in private practice often earn more than their colleagues in public institutions due to the ability to set their own rates for their services.

Education and additional certifications can also significantly increase a psychologist's income. Specializations in child psychology, clinical psychology, and psychotherapy are becoming especially popular, allowing professionals to stand out in the labor market.

Therefore, in 2024, psychologists in Russia can expect a variety of opportunities for career advancement and increased income, especially with ongoing professional development and adaptation to new market demands.

Professions for psychologists inspired by the stories of Sherlock Holmes. Forensic scientists analyze the behavior of victims and crime scenes, create psychological profiles of criminals, and conduct expert assessments during investigations. These specialists use their knowledge to understand the motivations of criminals and identify patterns in their actions, which contributes to more effective crime solving.

Specialists in this field assess the sanity of the criminal at the time of the crime. They interview suspects and analyze secondary motives, as well as the benefits that may have been for the criminal and the victim. These actions help to gain a deeper understanding of the nature of the crime and its participants.

The work of a forensic psychologist is suitable for attentive and skeptical people. This profession is for those who are prepared to face disappointments in humanity and understand that not everyone can help. Excessive humanism is not welcome in this specialty; it is important to clearly distinguish between the emotional and analytical components of empathy. This work requires the ability to objectively analyze and separate personal feelings from professional duties, which is especially relevant in cases involving crimes and criminal situations.

Empathy plays a vital role in our lives, allowing us to understand and empathize with the experiences of others. It is divided into two main categories. The first is emotional empathy, which helps us feel the pain of others and motivates us to help and sympathize. The second category is cognitive empathy, which is responsible for the ability to recognize and understand the emotions of others. Cognitive empathy is an important skill for forensic psychologists, as it helps them analyze the behavior and motivations of criminals. At the same time, developed emotional empathy can become an obstacle to objective justice, as it can cloud the rational perception of facts. Therefore, a balance between these two types of empathy is crucial for professionals in the fields of psychology and forensic science.

Types of Psychologists by Area

A consulting psychologist with a higher education in psychology and additional qualifications in a specific psychotherapeutic approach may be qualified as a psychotherapist (non-medical). These specialists can be divided into areas depending on their chosen psychotherapeutic school or method.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy is a psychological approach based on the idea that thoughts and beliefs influence a person's emotional state. Many other approaches have emerged from CBT, such as acceptance and commitment therapy, schema therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and skills training, among others.
• Psychoanalysis is a field that focuses on the "study" of the unconscious and its influence on humans. Often, psychoanalysis is understood to refer solely to the teachings of Sigmund Freud, but in reality, it is an umbrella term that encompasses a whole "bouquet" of approaches: psychodynamic approach, transactional analysis, Jungian analysis, and so on.
• Gestalt therapy is a field whose practitioners believe that the significance of individual events in a person's life should not be underestimated. The central concept of this approach is "closing the gestalt," that is, completing what was started.
• Humanistic approaches are a field that prioritizes values ​​and the individual's personality. This approach includes existential psychology, existential analysis, logotherapy, client-centered therapy, and so on.
• Art therapy is a direction in which the main method of studying and helping a person is creativity. Moreover, this is not necessarily drawing, but can also be music therapy, dance therapy, sand therapy, and so on.