Behavioral Psychologist Vs. Clinical Psychologist: Comparing Mental Health Professionals

Navigating the mental health field can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand the roles of different professionals. For some people, the terms "behavioral psychologist" and "clinical psychologist" may seem interchangeable, but important distinctions exist between these two types of psychologists.

If you're looking for help with specific behaviors or deeper emotional challenges, knowing the differences between behavioral psychologists and clinical psychologists can help you connect with the right type of professional. Or, if you’re considering careers in this field, it can be essential to understand the distinctions between these types of roles as you plan your future. Here, we’ll explore these differences for a clearer picture of the roles, educational paths, and therapeutic approaches involved in these two distinct professions.

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Behavioral psychology – A focus on actions

Behavioral psychology is about understanding and changing observable behaviors. Behavioral psychologists examine how people interact with their environments, focusing on patterns that can be seen and measured. In general, they aim to help clients replace negative behaviors with more positive ones.

Behavioral psychologists may work in many different settings, including schools, businesses, and healthcare facilities. Their approach is practical, usually involving strategies like reinforcement and behavior modification plans. They may also use techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to aid individuals in forming healthier behavior patterns.

The key purpose of behavioral psychology is to facilitate change through research-based practices. Professionals in this field can help clients manage anxiety and depression, receive support for developmental disorders, address problematic substance use, or enhance workplace productivity. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Clinical psychology – Addressing mental health concerns

Clinical psychology focuses on the understanding and treatment of emotional and psychological disorders. Clinical and counseling psychologists receive training to assess, diagnose, and treat a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, ranging from mild to severe. Their work often involves psychological testing, therapy, and creating comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs.

Typically, clinical psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology, including comprehensive training in research and clinical practice. This background allows them to address complex cases involving various psychological conditions. Their work settings may include their own practice, a hospital, or a community health center, where they may offer counseling and psychotherapy to clients.

Various therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, fall under the umbrella of clinical psychology. The aim is to help clients gain insight into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to promote improved mental health and well-being. Clinical psychologists are vital in the healthcare system, often collaborating with other medical professionals to provide comprehensive care.

Education and training: Doctoral degree, etc.

Becoming a behavioral or clinical psychologist involves rigorous education and training. Both fields require a deep understanding of human behavior, though their educational paths differ slightly.

Behavioral psychology – Advanced education and certification

Those looking to pursue a behavioral psychology career generally need to earn a master's degree or doctoral degree in psychology with a focus on behavioral psychology. The educational path for a behavioral psychology degree includes coursework on behavior analysis, research methods, and ethics along with supervised clinical experience. Receiving a certification from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) is another common step for graduates to help strengthen their credentials and job-market appeal.

Clinical psychology – Doctoral degree, clinical training, and licensure

Clinical psychologists usually achieve a doctoral degree like a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in clinical psychology. Their academic journey involves thorough coursework in psychopathology, psychotherapy techniques, and psychological assessments, along with extensive supervised clinical training. After earning their degree, they must pursue state licensure by passing a rigorous exam and meeting ongoing education requirements.

Both career paths require dedication and a passion for helping others. The educational journey for either is demanding but often rewarding, as it provides skills and knowledge that can empower a person to make a positive impact in the field of mental health.

Behavioral psychologist vs clinical psychologist: Techniques

Behavioral psychologists and clinical psychologists use different therapeutic approaches, each suited to their specific focus areas. Understanding these techniques can help you choose the right type of professional for your needs.

Behavioral psychologists focus on modifying behaviors through evidence-based strategies. Techniques like positive reinforcement, systematic desensitization, and aversion therapy are commonly used. For example, a behavioral psychologist might help someone with a specific phobia gradually face their fears through controlled exposure and reinforcement, potentially reducing the anxiety associated with the phobia.

Clinical psychologists tend to employ a wider range of therapeutic techniques. In addition to the commonly used cognitive behavioral therapy, they may also utilize psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, and other methods tailored to the client's specific needs. These approaches focus on revealing underlying emotional and psychological challenges to assist clients in understanding and altering their thought patterns and behaviors for sustained well-being.

Both types of psychologists may work with individuals, groups, or families, depending on the context and the specific needs of their clients. The choice of therapeutic approach is guided by the psychologist's training, the nature of the client's concerns, and the goals of therapy.

Work environments and career opportunities

Behavioral and clinical psychologists may find employment in diverse settings, reflecting the broad applicability of their skills. The work environment can influence the nature of their practice and the populations they serve.

Workplaces and roles – Behavioral psychology

Behavioral psychologists often work in educational settings, assisting children and adolescents with behavioral and learning challenges. They might also be employed in corporate environments, helping organizations improve employee performance and well-being through behavior-based interventions. Healthcare facilities and research institutions also employ behavioral psychologists to develop and implement programs to modify health-related behaviors.

Workplaces and roles – Clinical psychology

Clinical psychologists typically practice in their own offices or in hospitals or mental health clinics. They may deliver counseling services, conduct psychological evaluations, and design treatment plans addressing diverse mental health challenges. Many also choose to pursue a specialization—such as forensic psychology, neuropsychology, or health psychology—to cater to specific groups or to work in specialized contexts.

Ethics and standards in behavioral and clinical psychology

Ethics are fundamental to the practice of both behavioral and clinical psychology. Psychologists must follow strict ethical guidelines to ensure they offer care that is safe, effective, and respectful to their clients.

Behavioral psychologists follow guidelines set forth by professional organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). These standards emphasize things like evidence-based practices and client consent. Behavioral psychologists must also avoid conflicts of interest and maintain professional boundaries.

Clinical psychologists also adhere to APA guidelines, which cover a wide range of ethical considerations, from informed consent to competence to professional conduct. Clinical psychologists must ensure they provide services within their areas of expertise and continue their education to stay current with ongoing advancements in the field.

Both behavioral and clinical psychologists must navigate ethical dilemmas with care and professionalism, always prioritizing the well-being of their clients. Upholding these standards fosters trust and integrity within therapeutic relationships, contributing to more effective and positive outcomes.

State and federal laws also govern the practice of psychology, requiring professionals to adhere to specific regulations and reporting requirements. These laws help protect the public and maintain the profession's integrity.

Professional growth for behavioral and clinical psychologists

Psychology is a dynamic field, constantly evolving as new research and advancements emerge. Behavioral and clinical psychologists must participate in ongoing education to keep their licenses current and stay informed about the latest best practices.

State regulations mandate that licensed psychologists complete continuing education requirements, often through workshops, conferences, and various professional development activities. Engaging in these opportunities enables psychologists to enhance their expertise and provide higher-quality care to their clients.

Many psychology professionals also contribute to research, publishing their findings in academic journals or presenting at conferences. This research helps advance the field and offers valuable insights for other practitioners.

Research indicates that since 2020, unmet demand for mental health services has continued to rise. Growing demand means that the need for competent behavioral and clinical psychologists is also on the rise.

Choosing the right professional for your mental health needs

Deciding between meeting with a behavioral psychologist and a clinical psychologist depends on the nature of the challenges you’re facing and your personal preferences for treatment. Both types of professionals can offer valuable support, but their approaches and areas of expertise differ.

Behavioral psychologist vs clinical psychologist – Identifying your concerns

If there are specific behaviors you want to change, such as phobia-related symptoms, habits, or developmental challenges, a behavioral psychologist might be the right choice. Their focus on modifying behavior through practical, evidence-based techniques can be particularly effective for these types of concerns.

On the other hand, if you’re experiencing more complex emotional or psychological challenges, such as depression, anxiety, or the effects of trauma, a clinical psychologist may be more suitable. Their training in a variety of therapeutic approaches allows them to address deeper psychological needs and provide comprehensive care.

If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.

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As you consider your therapy goals and the type of support you believe will be most beneficial, it can also be helpful to consult with a healthcare provider or a mental health professional who can guide you in making an informed decision. For some people, a combination of both behavioral and clinical psychology may be the most effective approach.

The role online therapy may play in mental health treatment

Online therapy has become a helpful resource for those experiencing any of a number of mental health conditions, potentially complementing the work of behavioral and clinical psychologists by addressing specific client needs. One notable benefit is the affordability of online sessions in comparison to in-person sessions, which can make ongoing therapy more financially feasible. Furthermore, the ability to choose from a diverse range of therapists without being limited by geographical location can increase the chances of finding a professional with whom a client feels a strong connection. This can enhance the therapeutic experience and support the growing demand for mental health care.

The effectiveness of online therapy for mental health concerns

Research suggests that online therapy may be as effective as in-person treatment in many cases. As of this writing, studies report no significant differences in outcomes between telehealth and traditional therapy for many types of mental health challenges, confirming that clients can expect similar benefits from in-person or online sessions.