Clinical psychologists typically receive a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. in psychology both of which require empirical research. Clinical psychologists are therefore much more extensively trained in general and experimental psychology than most psychiatrists. They also have training and internship experiences that involve a range of theories, therapeutic methods, settings and populations. Clinical psychologists cannot prescribe drugs, but they typically work in collaboration with psychiatrists, either as part of a team or by referring to a psychiatrist those clients whose disorders would likely respond to psychopharmacology. Thus, clinical psychologists are often associated with colleges and universities, as well as with hospitals, clinics, or other health care facilities, or engaged in private practice.
Counseling psychologists represent a mid-point between clinical psychology and social work.
Generally, they do not engage in psychotherapy but render assistance, advice and support to individuals who seek help making changes or coping with life stresses. For instance, they might help an individual cope with a medical illness or a student adjust to college. They might help individuals come to terms with the loss of a family member, decide on a career or course of education, or give up a harmful habit such as smoking or overeating. In practice, the differences between counseling and clinical psychologists are probably less distinct. Counseling psychologists are often in private practice, although many obtain employment in secondary schools and in welfare or social services offices.