Average Salary

• As of May 2008, clinical psychologists earn an average of $64,140 per year, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics figures. Starting salaries for the field vary, but the average amount is $37,500 annually. Pay in the field of psychology is determined by level of education and experience. Clinical psychologists with more advanced degrees are able to perform a greater range of tasks and are compensated accordingly.
  
  

Function

• The mental health field offers an array of functions for psychologists. In addition to the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illness, research is also a vital component to the field of mental health. Gaining deeper insight into how the human mind works allows psychologists to develop new forms of treatment and therapy. Teaching and administrative work for hospitals and clinics are other functions that psychologists can perform.
  
  

Work Environment

• Hospitals employ clinical psychologists to help diagnose and treat patients with mental illnesses. The mental health care professionals who work in such an environment may partner with physicians in order to develop plans to care for patients. Universities have clinical psychologists on staff to teach classes and implement programs to train students and prepare them for careers in the field. In addition to employment at hospitals or universities, some clinical psychologists open private practices and work from their own offices.
  
  

Education

• The functions in which a psychologist can perform are related to the highest level of education she possesses. After earning a Ph.D. in the field, a psychologist can open her own private practice. If this does not appeal, hospitals and clinics hire those with doctorates to head departments and make administrative decisions. A psychologist with a master's degree is able to be licensed to treat patients. With a bachelor's degree, a novice psychologist is not able to actually treat patients, but can assist more highly-educated colleagues with research, as is usually performed during the pursuit of a master's degree.