Hawaii Psych

How to Start Your Career as School Psychologist

In the next 10 years, the demand for psychologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Since there are more individuals and students who are affected by family violence, crime, alcohol, drug abuse, there is a growing trend of student seeking school psychologists for counseling. Because of this demand, the career opportunities in this field are growing. Beginning your profession as a school psychologist is a great way to jump-start your career. Interested and determined students that are in pursuit of this career path are ensured of a bright future ahead of them.

Education Requirement

Depending on which US state you are in, the minimum requirement to be a qualified school psychologist varies. Most states accept a master degree in psychology or counseling while states like Hawaii and Maine require a minimum of doctorate degree to be qualified. Other states like Massachusetts, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania accept a bachelor’s degree in psychology. To ensure that you are qualified and accepted in most states, it is better to go for a master in psychology or counseling degree.

Earning the psychology degree can be done through various educational channels. You may choose to attend a campus-based university or enroll in one of the online psychology degree programs offered by your university. Online psychology degree has advantages over traditional campus-based degree program in terms of flexibility and convenience of learning. This type of learning channel is perfect for working individuals who are interested to further their career in psychology and become a certified school psychologist. The online course will not interrupt your current working schedule and at the same time maintain your current life style.

Nature of Work

The main responsibility of the school psychologists include the following: consulting with teachers regarding classroom behavior problems, administering standardized tests and developing special programs for the intellectually and emotionally challenged students. Also, a school psychologist isn’t limited to just one school, most of the time psychologists would have to divide their time between several schools in one geographic area. If therapy is needed, the psychologist will have to refer the child or individual to a mental health facility in the community for treatment.

Other responsibilities include teaching lessons on parenting skills, substance abuse and various topics important to healthy schools. School psychologists may also need to research on the effectiveness of the school’s academic programs and behavior management procedures.

Career Advancement

If you’re already a practicing school psychologist with a master degree, further your education to the doctorate level. This will increase your competitiveness and competency in your field. This will help move your career patch to a management level position. While your experience will help you move to a higher level in your career, you may also choose to switch to another related field in psychology; you may be a consultant to several large organizations where psychology expertise is needed.

Summary

The high demand for school psychologists has made the profession one of the important positions in schools and learning institutions. This has created many career opportunities for those who are interested in this field. Securing a master degree in psychology or counseling can ensure you that you will be able to start your career as a school psychologist.