What does psychologist mean?
A psychologist is a professional who studies the mind and behaviour and applies that knowledge to research, assessment, education, and mental-health support. The word includes psychologists who work in research or academic settings as well as those who assess and treat psychological difficulties in clinical practice. In everyday use, the term is often associated with talking therapies and emotional well-being, although it does not necessarily mean that the person provides treatment. A psychologist is distinct from a psychiatrist, who is a medical doctor and can prescribe medication. The word is common in both British and American English and can refer broadly to a person trained in psychology, from a researcher to a school, child, or clinical psychologist.
nounA psychologist is a trained professional who studies the mind and behaviour, including thought, emotion, perception, memory, and development. Psychologists may work in research, assessment, therapy, education, or other professional settings.
- A trained professional who studies human thought and behaviour, or who assesses and supports mental health and psychological well-being.
"She consulted a psychologist after experiencing persistent anxiety."
"The psychologist explained how stress can affect concentration and memory."
"The report was written by a psychologist who interviewed several members of the team."
The regular plural is used when referring to more than one psychologist.
"Several psychologists contributed to the study of adolescent wellbeing."
The word psychologist comes from the Greek roots for “mind” and “study,” so its name is essentially a label for the science of the mind.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does psychologist come from?
The word was formed in English in the 19th century from psychological, which was borrowed from Greek psychologicalos, a term associated with psychē, meaning “soul” or “mind,” and -ikos, meaning “pertaining to.” The modern scientific sense developed alongside the establishment of psychology as an independent academic discipline. Related English words include psychology, psychiatric, and psychiatrist, all of which reflect the same broad Greek tradition concerned with the mind and mental life.
Related word forms
How psychologist is actually used
The term is used in British and American English. It refers to a profession with academic and clinical training, although the precise scope and licensing requirements vary between countries and specializations.
Easily confused with psychologist
A psychologist is trained primarily in psychological assessment, research, and non-medical treatment, whereas a psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can diagnose and treat mental disorders, including by prescribing medication.