Clinical Psychology Glossary
25 essential terms — because precise language is the foundation of clear thinking in Clinical Psychology.
Showing 25 of 25 terms
The outward expression of emotion as observed by others, including facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language.
A category of mental disorders characterized by excessive fear, worry, and related behavioral disturbances that cause significant distress or functional impairment.
The systematic process of gathering information to evaluate psychological functioning, diagnose disorders, and plan treatment.
A therapeutic technique for depression that involves scheduling and engaging in rewarding activities to counteract withdrawal and avoidance.
A structured or unstructured conversation between clinician and client used to gather diagnostic information, history, and current functioning.
A systematic error in thinking that leads to biased interpretations of events, contributing to emotional distress.
The simultaneous presence of two or more disorders or conditions in the same individual.
The ethical obligation to protect private information disclosed by a client during the therapeutic relationship.
An unconscious psychological strategy used to protect the ego from anxiety and distress, such as denial, projection, or rationalization.
The identification and classification of a mental disorder based on established diagnostic criteria, typically using the DSM-5-TR or ICD-11.
The process of distinguishing a particular disorder from others that present with similar symptoms.
A therapeutic intervention whose efficacy has been demonstrated through controlled scientific research and clinical trials.
The study of the causes and origins of a disease or disorder.
A psychoanalytic technique where the client says whatever comes to mind without censorship, allowing unconscious material to surface.
A behavioral assessment method that identifies the antecedents, behaviors, and consequences (ABC model) maintaining a problematic behavior.
The process of providing a client with adequate information about treatment to make a voluntary and knowledgeable decision about participation.
Describing thoughts, behaviors, or coping strategies that are counterproductive, interfere with functioning, or worsen psychological problems.
A subspecialty of clinical psychology focusing on the relationship between brain function and behavior, often involving specialized testing.
The proportion of a population that has a particular condition or disorder at a given point in time or over a specified period.
A prediction about the likely course and outcome of a disorder, with or without treatment.
The scientific study of mental disorders, including their symptoms, causes, course, and treatment.
A harmonious and trusting relationship between clinician and client that facilitates open communication and effective treatment.
Strategies and techniques designed to help clients maintain treatment gains and avoid returning to problematic behaviors or symptoms.
The unconscious redirection of feelings from past relationships onto the therapist during the course of psychotherapy.