The development of clinical psychology in the Republic of Ireland

Abstract

In Ireland clinical psychology emerged in the mid-1950s as an integral part of the public health service for people with mental health problems and intellectual disability. The structure of the profession and training system which evolved were based on the UK model. The number of clinical psychologists, the range of specialisms in which they work and roles that clinical psychologist fulfil have developed significantly especially during the 21st century. PSI, psychologists within the public health service, and the four clinical psychology training programmes have worked together to foster the growth of the profession. Clinical psychology research and textbooks have been published by Irish clinical psychologists, and they have also had significant media presence. Clinical psychologists also had a significant impact on major societal issues such as CSA. Statutory registration is the next major profession development on the horizon for the profession of clinical psychology in the Republic of Ireland