How do I become a Psychologist?

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour. There are three areas of specialism in the HSE: Clinical, Educational and Counselling.

There are mulitple entry routes to the Psychology profession:

  • 2:1 undergraduate degree in Psychology plus doctoral degree or equivalent in your chosen area of specialism from an accredited course
  • Undergraduate Degree Conversion Course plus doctoral degree or equivalent in your chosen area of specialism from an accredited course

The HSE offer a Psychology Trainee 3 year accredited postgraduate professional training programme in the area of either Counselling, Educational or Clinical, in a partnership between the HSE and selected Irish universities.

The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI), the professional body for psychology provide more information on accredited courses, qualifying abroad and a podcast on how to become a Psychologist.

Your role with the HSE

Psychology is a broad discipline that focuses on the scientific study of the person from a behavioural, emotional, psychological and health perspective. Psychologists work in various healthcare settings in both hospital and community settings.

As a psychologist you will work with service users with different challenges from all backgrounds and walks of life. Depending on the area of psychology you specialise in, this may include helping clients with:

  • depression, anxiety, OCD, or eating problems
  • physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities
  • neurodevelopmental issues such as ADHD or autism
  • managing life issues such as trauma or bereavement

As a psychologist you should be empathetic and non judgemental. Good communication and interpersonal skills, especially active listening are essential to build a strong therapeutic relationship with your service user.

Career Progression

As with all careers in the HSE, there are great opportunities for career advancement. Continuous professional development is available, encouraged and supported.

 Clinical pathway:

  • Psychologist (Clinical/Educational/Counselling)
  • Psychologist Senior (Clinical/Educational/Counselling)
  • Psychologist Principal (Specialist)

Management pathway:

  • Psychologist Principal (Manager)
  • Director of Psychology

Further training and development

The HSCP Office is responsible for Leadership, Education and Contiuning Professional Development of HSCPs working in the HSE.

HSeLanD is the HSE portal which offers an array of training & development opportunities delivered either online or in a classroom style setting. Information on Education and Development can be accessed by visiting the HSCP Hub on www.hseland.ie.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is one of the key mechanisms for maintaining HSCPs professional knowledge and skills.

Other examples of professional development activities include access to excellent HSE library services, further training and educational opportunities, attendance at conferences, webinars and workshops, engaging in mentoring and supervision, keeping up with the latest information about the profession through specialised newsletters, blogs, and podcasts.

For more information on learning and development please visit the PSI website.

Staff Benefits and Testimonials

Working in a rewarding and challenging career is just one of the many benefits you’ll enjoy as a HSE employee. We offer attractive pay and benefits, professional supervision, career support and development opportunities, friendly colleagues, and an excellent quality of life.

See Pay scales – HSE Staff

Staff Testimonials coming soon.