The branch of psychology focused on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders and psychological distress.
From Greek 'klinikos' (of a bed, of a physician who visits patients in bed) + 'psychologia.' Bedside psychology.
Clinical psychology is where science meets healing — clinical psychologists use research-backed methods to help people overcome mental health challenges.
Clinical psychology (especially psychoanalysis, 1900s-1980s) pathologized female traits: independence was 'penis envy,' assertiveness was 'hysteria,' sexuality was 'dysfunction.' Diagnostic criteria for depression, anxiety, and personality disorders were calibrated to male presentation, causing underdiagnosis of women.
Use 'clinical psychology' but ensure clinical training includes gender-informed assessment. Recognize that symptom presentation differs by gender and that diagnostic bias persists.
["gender-informed clinical practice"]
Feminist clinical psychologists (e.g., Laura Brown, Catriona MacLeod) have documented how pathology diagnosis is gender-laden; their work centers trauma, power, and context in clinical formulation.
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