Can Anyone Call Themselves a Clinical Psychologist?

Here's What Every Malaysian Should Know.

The Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology (MSCP) has observed increasing public interest regarding the qualifications and registration of Clinical Psychologists in Malaysia. As the national professional body representing Clinical Psychologists, we would like to take this opportunity to provide some clarification to help members of the public make informed decisions when seeking psychological services.

Who is a Clinical Psychologist?

A Clinical Psychologist is a trained mental health professional who is qualified to assess, diagnose, and provide evidence-based psychological interventions for individuals experiencing emotional, behavioural, and mental health difficulties.

In Malaysia, Clinical Psychologists are expected to possess a recognised Master's degree (or equivalent recognised qualification) in Clinical Psychology, which prepares them for supervised clinical practice and professional registration.

Clinical Psychologists work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and older adults across hospitals, universities, community settings, rehabilitation centres, and private practice.

Is Clinical Psychology a Regulated Profession?

Yes.

Clinical Psychology is one of the recognised professions under the Allied Health Professions Act 2016 (Act 774).

The Allied Health Professions Council, under the Ministry of Health Malaysia, is the statutory authority responsible for registering Clinical Psychologists and issuing Practising Certificates (PCs) in accordance with the Act.

How Can You Verify a Clinical Psychologist?

Members of the public are encouraged to verify the registration status of a Clinical Psychologist through the official Ministry of Health Malaysia – Allied Health Professions Council Registry:

MOH Allied Health Professions Council Registry

https://mhps.moh.gov.my/SEARCH/index.php/site/productlist/7dE3c99Z6286F3

The public may also refer to the MSCP Clinical Psychologist Registry, which lists many Clinical Psychologists who are members of the Society:

MSCP Clinical Psychologist Registry

https://www.mscp.my/clinical-psychologist-registry

For more information about Clinical Psychology and the roles of different mental health professionals, please visit the MSCP "For the Public" page:

https://www.mscp.my/for-the-public

MSCP's Role

The Malaysian Society of Clinical Psychology (MSCP) is the national professional body representing Clinical Psychologists in Malaysia. While professional registration and the issuance of practising certificates are regulated by the Allied Health Professions Council under Act 774, MSCP is committed to advancing professional standards, ethical practice, continuing professional development, advocacy, and public education.

Before Choosing a Clinical Psychologist, Ask Three Simple Questions

✅ Does the practitioner hold a recognised Master's degree (or equivalent recognised qualification) in Clinical Psychology?

✅ Is the practitioner registered under the Allied Health Professions Act 2016 (Act 774)?

✅ Can the practitioner's registration be verified through the official Ministry of Health Malaysia registry?

Before choosing a Clinical Psychologist, take one minute to verify their registration. An informed decision is the first step towards safe, ethical, and quality mental health care.