Clinical psychology is a subfield of applied psychology. Both clinical psychology and applied psychology are related but have distinct focuses and applications.
Applied psychology is a broad field that encompasses the use of psychological principles, theories, and methods to address real-world issues and problems. The goal of applied psychology is to apply psychological knowledge to practical situations, often with the aim of improving individuals' well-being and enhancing the functioning of organizations or communities. Applied psychology includes various specialized areas, such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, educational psychology, forensic psychology, health psychology, and more.
Clinical psychology is one specific area within applied psychology. It primarily deals with the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of psychological disorders and mental health issues. Clinical psychologists work directly with individuals, families, and groups to provide therapeutic interventions and help people cope with emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. They may work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, private practices, counseling centers, or research institutions.
In summary, applied psychology is a broad umbrella term that includes multiple specialized fields, and clinical psychology is a subset of applied psychology, specifically focused on mental health and psychological well-being.