Assessments, interventions, MDTs - this is what those words look like on a real Tuesday, plus the one moment that keeps psychologists going.
Defining the role (the evidence factor)
A Clinical Psychologist is not just “a therapist.” The distinction is the evidence base: using specific modalities (CBT, DBT, MBT, systemic work) and measuring whether they help. If the data says something is off, we re-formulate and adjust.
A day in the life (the CAMHS reality)
Working in CAMHS taught me that the day starts fast and rarely slows down.
- 09:00 – triage and risk: reviewing referrals, calling families, building safety plans for young people in crisis.
- The 90-minute assessment: meeting the family, completing an MSE, assessing risk and history, and designing a care plan.
- The admin load: notes, referral letters, liaising with schools, social services, and police. Paperwork is part of the job.
The “magic” moment: formulation
The most powerful part of the job is reframing someone’s story. Many young people think they are broken. Formulation helps them see that their reactions make sense in context. That “it is not my fault” moment is the privilege that keeps most of us going.
The hardest truth: the resource gap
Waiting lists and thresholds can be the most frustrating part of NHS work. You will sometimes tell families they need to wait or that they do not meet criteria. Do not take systemic limits as a measure of your worth.
The private practice trap
Private practice can look appealing, but isolation is real. In the NHS you have an MDT to lean on; in private work you must build that support yourself. A group clinic or supervision network is the safest way to avoid working alone after heavy sessions.
The tools of the trade
- Psychometrics: objective measures to track change, not just “how it felt.”
- MDT collaboration: social workers, psychiatrists, nurses - use them as your safety net.
- Integrative modalities: blend CBT with DBT, MBT, and systemic approaches to fit the client.
Seeing it in action
In the walkthrough below, Emmanuel (a Clinical Psychologist with over a decade of experience) breaks down his workflow, how he manages risk, and why tech and AI could change how we scale therapy.
Key takeaways
- It is about measurement: evidence-based models plus data tracking.
- Admin is real: expect triage, letters, and coordination alongside therapy.
- Formulation is the core: explaining the “why” removes shame.
- Beware isolation: private work needs built-in supervision and peers.
- Accept limits: you cannot fix systemic gaps single-handedly - protect your own mental health.