In this age of digitalization and post COVID era, there has been a notable transformation in human lifestyles. Elements like job demands, interpersonal difficulties, and shifts in daily routines have led to elevated levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. This trend has significantly contributed to a heightened demand for mental health assistance and certified clinical psychologist.
Earlier, the mental illness was frequently perceived as a sign of weakness or a personal shortcoming. But, the increasing awareness in mental health has resulted in a diminished stigma associated with seeking assistance for psychological issues. With greater recognition of the significance of mental well-being, individuals are increasingly inclined to access the services provided by clinical psychologists.
The RCI, or the Rehabilitation Council of India, is the statutory body of Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The RCI provides license to practice as a Clinical psychologist. It comes under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan), Government of India.
Rehabilitation Council of India
The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) government organization that was established under the Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992. The RCI is the sole authority in India entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing and maintaining a centralized registry. It contains comprehensive information about all qualified professionals practicing in the fields of rehabilitation and special education. This central rehabilitation register is a vital component of RCI’s mandate, which encompasses the regulation and monitoring of rehabilitation services across the country.
RCI acknowledges institutions, organizations, and universities offering a range of courses. This includes master’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, diplomas, and certificates, in the domain of disability rehabilitation. Additionally, it encompasses the regulation and administration of training initiatives for professionals engaged in disability rehabilitation, along with the oversight of training policies and programs.
Courses for Clinical Psychologist License
To obtain a license to practice as a Clinical Psychologist in India, individuals can opt for one of the following degree or diploma programs:
Degree Courses
M.Phil in Clinical Psychology
The M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology is a two-year hospital-based postgraduate program that offers comprehensive training in counselling skills, therapeutic techniques, psychological measurements, and more. This course is highly sought after because it provides students with the opportunity to obtain a license to kickstart their careers as Clinical Psychologists in India.
Through this program, students gain in-depth insights into various psychological aspects and acquire the knowledge to apply evidence-based interventions in assisting individuals in overcoming mental health challenges.
To be eligible for M.Phil. Clinical Psychology, candidates must have completed their M.A./M.Sc. in Psychology with a minimum aggregate of 55% marks in their examinations.
Learn more about our Online Live M.Phil. Clinical Psychology Entrance Preparations.
PsyD in Clinical Psychology
The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program is a 4-year regular course following a Master’s degree in Psychology. This course can be pursued as a 2-year course with lateral entry who completed M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology.
Students pursue this course to attain their doctoral degree and obtain the coveted RCI License, enabling them to practice as Clinical Psychologists in India.
Over the first three years of the program, candidates engage in diverse clinical assignments across various service settings. This includes outpatient, in-patient/residential, brief care, outreach, and community services. In the later stages of the program, students undertake a year-long, full-time, and rotational shift internship under the guidance of their supervisors.
Learn more about PsyD Clinical Psychology.
Diploma Courses
Psychology diploma courses are like brief, one-year courses that teach the basics of psychology. They also give you hands-on experience you need for real jobs. There are lots of these courses for people who want to learn about psychology. Here are some popular ones that help you get an RCI License.
Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PDCP)
The Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology is one-year professional training program designed to equip students with the necessary skills to provide essential mental health services.
After completing this course, students become eligible to register with the RCI as Clinical Psychologists (Associate) under the Certified Rehabilitation Register (CRR). This accreditation allows them to work as specialists in non-academic service settings.
To enrol in the PDCP course, applicants must have a Master’s degree in Psychology as a minimum eligibility requirement.
Take a look at the list of institutes that provide the PDCP program.
Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance and Counselling (ADCGC)
The Advanced Diploma in Child Guidance and Counselling (ADCGC) is a 1-year diploma course. This course is approved by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). It aims to address the shortage of qualified professionals capable of providing counselling and guidance to children and families in diverse environments. Successful completion of this diploma program grants candidates an RCI License to practice as “Vocational Counselors”.
To enroll in the ADCGC course the candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Psychology. Presently, seven institutes offer the ADCGC diploma course.
View the compilation of institutions that offer the ADCGC course.
Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Psychology (PGDRP)
The Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Psychology (PGDRP) is a one-year diploma course that is crafted to provide candidates with essential knowledge and skills necessary for effective rehabilitation counseling practice. It encompasses a diverse array of subjects, incorporating counseling theories and specialized coursework pertinent to rehabilitation. Upon successful completion of this program, candidates become eligible to obtain an RCI license, enabling them to practice as accredited “Rehabilitation Counselors.”
To be eligible for admission into this program, candidates must meet the following minimum educational requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree obtained through regular mode, with coursework in general psychology during all three years.
- A master’s degree in any branch of psychology, whether acquired through regular or distance education.
- A master’s degree in counseling psychology, also attainable through either regular or distance education.
Furthermore, candidates must have achieved a minimum aggregate score of 55%. For those belonging to the SC/ST/OBC category, a minimum aggregate score of 50% is required to be eligible for admission.
See the list of institutes offering PGDRP course.
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