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Clinical Psychologist — Step-by-Step Roadmap

Your journey, phase by phase

  1. Phase 1 · Class 11–12 Class 11–12: lay the foundation Any stream works; Psychology, Biology and English help.
    • Choose Psychology if your school offers it; Biology and Statistics also help.
    • Read about mental health, behaviour and development from reliable sources.
    • Volunteer or observe in school counselling or helpline settings where possible.
    • Be prepared for a long, structured training path.
    Streams
    Any (Arts or Science)
  2. Phase 2 · Year 1–3 Bachelor’s degree in Psychology BA or BSc Psychology builds the foundation.
    • Take admission through CUET-UG or merit at a recognised university.
    • Study developmental, social, cognitive, abnormal and counselling psychology, plus research methods and statistics.
    • Do internships in clinics, schools or NGOs.
    • Aim for strong marks, since the next stage is competitive.
    Degree
    BA/BSc Psychology
  3. Phase 3 · Year 4–5 Master’s in Psychology MA or MSc Psychology (preferably Clinical).
    • Apply through CUET-PG or university tests.
    • Choose a university with good clinical exposure and supervision.
    • Complete practicals, case studies and a dissertation.
    • Some universities offer MA/MSc Clinical Psychology, which is the best preparation.
    Entrance
    CUET-PG / university test
  4. Phase 4 · Year 6–7 M.Phil in Clinical Psychology (RCI-recognised) A two-year supervised clinical programme, the professional qualification.
    • Apply to RCI-recognised institutions such as NIMHANS, CIP Ranchi, AIIMS, IHBAS and others through their own entrance tests.
    • Training combines coursework, supervised assessments, therapy and a dissertation.
    • Clinical rotations include adult, child and neuropsychology placements.
    • This M.Phil is required to be recognised as a clinical psychologist under RCI rules.
    Programme
    2 years M.Phil (Clinical Psychology)
    Duration
    Supervised clinical training
  5. Phase 5 · After M.Phil RCI registration and practice Register with the Rehabilitation Council of India and begin practice.
    • Apply to RCI for a Registration (CRR) number as a clinical psychologist.
    • Work in hospitals, mental health institutes, private clinics, schools or NGOs.
    • Follow ethical and legal standards under the Mental Healthcare Act.
    • Further study: PhD, specialised training in therapy or neuropsychology.
    Registration
    RCI (CRR)

Verify on the official source

Exam dates, fees, paper patterns and eligibility rules are revised by the regulator from time to time. Treat this roadmap as your map, and confirm the current rules on the official site before you register or pay any fee.

Rehabilitation Council of IndiaNIMHANS Full Clinical Psychologist career guide