Psychologist

Become A Psychologist

Are you interested in understanding the complexities of human behavior and what motivates people? Are you level headed, observant and a good listener? Or, perhaps you just have a desire to help people become happier and more fulfilled. If so, you might consider becoming a psychologist.

Psychology in a Nutshell

Psychologists are social scientists who study human behavior and the mind. However, within the field of psychology, there are numerous specialties:

• Clinical psychologists represent the largest specialty; some counsel patients with mental and emotional difficulties, while others provide group psychotherapy, or help patients deal with divorce or grief.
• Industrial-organizational psychologists specialize in improving office environments and workplace productivity.
• Developmental psychologists study the cognitive and social development that takes place throughout a person's life.

Education Requirements for Psychologists

Competition in the field of psychology is strong, and the educational requirements of psychology are branched and varied. For this reason, aspiring psychologists should research specializations of interest before committing to an educational program. For instance, school psychologists must obtain a specialist degree in school psychology in order to work with children and adolescents.

A doctoral degree, which is generally awarded after five to seven years of graduate study and original research, is required to become a licensed clinical or counseling psychologist in most states. For many psychologists, the PhD is the terminal degree, but another terminal degree, known as the PsyD, or Doctor of Psychology, has grown in popularity in recent years. While both degrees focus on all aspects of the profession, the PsyD places specific emphasis on therapy and counseling.

Those who have earned their master's degree, often called a Master of Social Work, or MSW, often provide counseling services in schools, clinics or governmental agencies. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in psychology may assist doctoral psychologists in community health centers and correctional programs, or work as research assistants.

In addition to education, psychologists who offer patient care must meet licensing requirements within their state. These requirements vary by state and type of position. All states also require psychologists to pass a state-administered exam, and many require continuing education for license renewal.

Day in the Life of a Psychologist

Counseling psychologists who work in private practice set their own work schedules; however, they may be required to meet with clients in the evening or on weekends, depending on their clients' needs.

Psychologists working in hospitals and nursing homes may also work shifts that include evenings or weekends, while those working in schools or clinics often keep regular nine-to-five schedules. Some psychologists are required to travel often for conferences or research, depending on their specialty.

Job Growth for Psychologists

Employment opportunities for psychologists are expected to grow up to 26 percent through 2014, which is faster than the national average for all occupations. This is due to an increased demand for psychological services in schools, hospitals, social service agencies, mental health centers, substance abuse treatment clinics, consulting firms and private companies.

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