Which Do You Really Need: English for Psychology or for Psychologists?

Nope, those are not the same thing. Here’s how to choose what’s best for you and save precious time, energy, and money.

So, you're eager to enhance your English skills, specifically tailored to psychology. But let's face it: the options out there can be overwhelming. Books, classes, programs, resources... where do you even begin?

Well, let's break it down.

There are essentially two paths you could take: English for psychology or English for psychologists.

And yes, they sound similar. But no, they're not the same thing.

Choosing between them depends on your level, needs, and objectives. Let's explore each option and why it's crucial to pick the right one for you.

English for Psychology is for you If...

• You're just starting your psychology degree or higher education studies.

• You're not yet sure if you want to become a therapist. Maybe you're considering other paths like pursuing a doctorate, becoming a researcher, or working in Human Resources. After all, not every psychologist is a clinician!

• You might have a beginner or intermediate level of English. You can understand everyday conversations and discuss familiar topics, but translate some sentences in your head from your first language to English when you’re speaking.

• Most psychology words you learn are concepts or theoretical terms like agnosia, operant conditioning, psychometrics, or heuristics.

• Your focus is mainly on listening and reading to grasp English better, especially for understanding university lectures or scientific articles.

• Speaking skills are not your top priority, though you might need to participate in seminars or give presentations occasionally.

• You might need writing help to complete reports, essays, or assignments in English.

English for Psychologists is for you if...

• You've finished (or are about to finish) your higher education studies in psychology, with a focus on clinical psychology.

• You have some clinical experience in your native language, even if it's just during your studies.

• Your English level is quite advanced. You can speak fluently and spontaneously, expressing clear ideas. This doesn’t mean your level is perfect- it’s completely normal to speak with some hesitations and mistakes.

• - You can understand texts like this blog post or follow TV series and movies, even if you don't catch every single word.

• You aim to expand your advanced vocabulary related to topics like emotional and cognitive experiences to better understand your client and reflect their experience. These are words and expressions like mull something over, go berserk, tedious and yearn.

• Learning therapy expressions and phrases is important for specific, concrete tasks you complete in your practice. This depends on your orientation but includes work such as exploring feelings, reframing beliefs, or managing an alliance rupture.

• While reading and writing aren't your top priorities, you want to be able to communicate effectively and accurately with patients by email.

But what if you're thinking, "Can't therapists learn English for psychology to conduct sessions in English?"

I want to stress that there’s nothing essentially wrong with English for psychology at all.

But using it to prepare to work with English-speaking patients is like painting a house with a toothbrush.

After hours of futile effort, you might be tempted to throw everything out the window. The brush, your partner, your kids…

And trust me, nobody wants that!

Still not sure?

Remember- If you've finished your university studies and have an advanced level of English, chances are you've consumed academic content in English.  You’ve read plenty of scientific research, watched videos or attended lectures and conferences. This means you already know a lot of theoretical terms. 

What’s more, that isn’t the type of words we use with patients.

I mean, which reflection do you prefer?

"Well, it seems that you're experiencing a significant discrepancy between your ideal self and your actual self, resulting in a profound existential crisis characterized by cognitive dissonance and an inability to reconcile your internal conflicts."

OR

"It sounds like you're feeling pretty stuck between who you want to be and who you actually are. This is making you feel really confused and kind of down because you can't figure out how to deal with these conflicting thoughts and feelings."

If you're leaning towards the latter, you're in the right place.

Spoiler alert: what I teach is English for psychologists.

Curious to learn more about how I can help you speak with greater confidence in your sessions in English? Click here to explore.

Not quite sure what you need? I offer a free 60-minute consultation where we can discuss your level, needs, and objectives. Book an appointment here.

And hey, if you're interested in specialized tips on providing therapy in English, feel free to join my free email list.

Let's make you ready to open up your practice to patients worldwide.