Understanding The Role Of A Cognitive Psychologist

Sometimes called "brain science," cognitive psychology generally focuses on the study of brain structure, function, and mental processes, such as thinking, perception, memory, language, attention, learning, and problem-solving. Unlike most other branches of psychology that address external, observable factors like behavior, cognitive psychology tends to be more focused on the neurological workings behind the behavior.

Research on how the brain works can give laboratory scientists an understanding of how people think and react to stimuli so they can proactively develop new methods of treatment for mental illness and neurological conditions. Cognitive psychology can also be used in a clinical environment, helping mental health professionals develop and deliver effective treatments for mental illness. It often informs various treatment methods, such as dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. 

What is a cognitive psychologist?

Areas of study 

Cognitive psychologists often study a wide variety of topics related to human thought processes and the brain, including the following:

• Memory
• Information processing
• Problem-solving
• Motivation
• Decision-making
• Language acquisition
• Perception
• Metacognition
• Attention
• Motor control
• Sensory information processing
• Visual and auditory perception

What do cognitive psychologists do?

The primary duties and responsibilities of a cognitive psychologist are typically associated with using research on human cognition to serve individuals or organizations in specific capacities, depending on their area of study. 

For example, some cognitive psychologists may choose to work with individuals with learning disabilities or cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Some work with children to study brain development and cognition or with business corporations to assess cognitive skills in the workforce. In a clinical environment, they might work with adults to address the cognitive effects of substance use disorders or traumatic brain injuries. 

Research methods and techniques used by cognitive psychologists

There are several methods by which cognitive psychologists can conduct research to gather data and information:

• Case studies: Detailed investigations of single or individual cases concerning mental health and cognition
• Controlled experiments: Experiments conducted under controlled laboratory conditions 
• Computational modeling: The recreation of certain aspects of human cognition within a computational model or program; this technique is typically used to predict behavior in situations with little or no previous study and can be used to develop artificial intelligence 
• Cognitive neuroscience: The use of human brain imaging devices to study cognitive function 

Where do cognitive psychologists work?

Along with clinical and behavioral psychology, the field of cognitive psychology is often concerned with helping individuals overcome patterns of disordered behavior, thinking, and emotional distress associated with mental health disorders. 

As such, cognitive psychologists may adopt a clinical focus and work directly with individuals experiencing challenges with cognitive development and mental health. Some cognitive psychologists work in hospitals, clinics, and other environments in which they may treat individuals with brain disorders and injuries affecting cognition.

Many cognitive psychologists work in universities or other institutions that have an interest in researching cognitive functions and processes. 

Cognitive psychology can also be valuable in areas outside of the realm of psychology. Because so many professions can benefit from its applications, it tends to be one of the most in-demand specialty areas of psychology. Some occupations in which cognitive psychologists can apply their expertise include those listed below:

• Education
• Software design
• Government agencies
• Corporations
• In-person consulting
• Healthcare
• Research
• Public health and safety 
• Architecture
• Graphic design
• Marketing and advertising
• Engineering

Therapeutic methods driven by cognitive psychology

Psychologists can gain insight into how the human mind works in many settings. However, research in cognitive science often contributes significantly to treatment approaches for disorders like anxiety, depression, and phobias. These approaches normally fall under the umbrella of cognitive therapy. 

In fundamental terms, cognitive therapy is generally focused on uncovering deep-rooted thoughts and beliefs that could be contributing to a person’s mental and emotional distress. Once these beliefs are identified, their influence on the individual's mental health can be examined, and the beliefs may be adjusted.  

Several forms of cognitive therapy tend to focus on how underlying thought processes contribute to psychological challenges: 

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): One of the most researched and used forms of cognitive therapy, CBT generally refers to a variety of approaches in which the client works on changing their thoughts to influence emotion and behavior. Unlike cognitive therapy, whose goal is primarily to alter thoughts, CBT adds the behavioral element. 
• Rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT): This is a form of CBT that usually focuses on managing irrational thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to shape them into more rational, realistic ones. 
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): This form of CBT typically focuses on changing harmful relationships with one's inner experiences. This technique normally relies on counter-conditioning and positive reinforcement to help clients accept some of their emotions as necessary responses in certain situations. Once the client accepts those emotions and their associated situations, they may move forward to make appropriate behavioral changes.
• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT): This type of cognitive therapy often uses cognitive problem-solving strategies to help individuals develop coping skills for mental health challenges. This type of therapy can be particularly useful in treating individuals with conditions like borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, substance use disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and eating disorders. 

Skills and qualifications

The skills and qualifications necessary to work as a cognitive psychologist may vary depending on the focus. 

Education 

In general, candidates must complete a four-year undergraduate degree in psychology or another related field, followed by a master's degree. Many cognitive scientists continue their education to receive a doctorate degree. 

Doctoral programs typically require students to submit a thesis or original piece of research. Regardless of the level of graduate education, most cognitive psychologists select a specific area of specialization related to the jobs they would like to pursue. 

Training

Cognitive psychologists usually must complete a set amount of working internship or practicum hours. These are typically completed during postgraduate studies. Practicum hours normally involve working with a licensed psychologist, while internships might require more independent responsibilities and duties. These hours are usually obtained by working in a clinic, community mental health facility, clinical research facility, or individual practice.

Licensure and accreditation

Psychologists of all types normally must earn a state license by passing a state-regulated exam and submitting proof of education and internship or practicum hours. 

Some cognitive psychologists become board-certified by the National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (NACBT). To achieve board certification through the NACBT, candidates must have the following: 

• A master's or doctorate degree in psychology or another related field from an accredited university
• Six years of supervisor-approved cognitive behavioral experience
• Three letters of recommendation from supervisors or other mental health professionals who have worked with the candidate
• An introductory certification program completion

Essential skills and attributes 

Cognitive psychologists usually must possess a diverse set of skills to work in a variety of capacities, including the following:

• Strong analytical skills 
• Research skills
• Logic and reasoning
• Active listening 
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving
• Organization
• Collaboration and communication
• Interpersonal skills
• Empathy

Cognitive psychology can inform mental health treatment

Learn more in online therapy

Seeking mental health treatment rooted in cognitive psychology

Many of the most effective forms of mental health treatment are rooted in cognitive psychology, with the most notable example likely being cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Learning to recognize unhelpful thought patterns and adjust them to be more constructive can have a positive impact on your emotions and behavior. If you’ve encountered mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or another concern, CBT may serve as an effective form of treatment.

However, it may not always be easy to seek CBT in person depending on your location, schedule, mental state, and preferences. Online therapy is another option that may alleviate potential barriers to treatment. By using an online therapy platform, you can attend sessions with a licensed therapist from the location of your choice at a time that suits your schedule. You can also choose between video conference, phone call, and online chat for each appointment to further personalize the therapy experience.

Research suggests that online CBT can produce the same results as face-to-face CBT. Either option can be an excellent step toward improved mental health.