Degree Programs for Clinical Psychologists : Online And Campus Schools
Career Information
Clinical Psychologists: Career, Salary and Education Information
Psychologists study human behavior and the mental process by observing, recording, and analyzing how humans relate to one another and to the world around them. Psychologists help individuals by pinpointing patterns to behavior and reactions to certain environmental triggers, as well as coping mechanisms that can help them deal with their environment.
The observations of clinical psychologists aid research, form the basis of new theories, find explanations for behavior, and formulate new treatments. There are many specializations available to those in clinical psychology schools, and each can open the door to various branches of the profession.
Clinical Psychologist Jobs: A Day in the Life
Most clinical psychologists work in comfortable, well-lit offices. They might work with individuals, families, or groups. Clinical psychologists analyze the situation, offer suggestions to modify behavior, and keep close records of progress from one session to another. Their work from day to day might vary, depending upon their specialization. For instance, a school psychologist might address classrooms full of students on a regular basis, while a forensic psychologist often studies case histories to determine the behavioral patterns of criminals.
Clinical Psychology Training and Education Requirements
There are many different degree levels one can pursue to become a psychologist, but lower degree levels do have their limitations. A bachelor's degree is suitable for someone who wants to assist other psychologists in correctional programs, community mental health facilities, or vocational rehabilitation. A bachelor's degree also opens the door to work in business management, sales, service, or administrative assisting.
Those with a master's degree might find work as industrial-organizational psychologists. They might also conduct research under other psychologists. Some states will certify those with a master's degree to work in a school setting. However, priority will often go to those who earn a specialist degree in school psychology.
In order to work in independent practice, a psychologist must hold a graduate degree. A clinical psychology degree on the graduate level allows for work in a wide variety of positions, including research, teaching, clinical work, and private counseling. Employment might be found in colleges and universities, primary and secondary education, health care settings, and private industry.
Psychologists who work with individuals, whether in group care or private practice, must be certified and licensed by the state in which they practice. The requirements vary depending upon the state, but all require passing grades on a licensing exam. Continuing education is often required to keep the license current.
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Clinical Psychologists Jobs and Employment Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for clinical psychologists are expected to grow by 12 percent from 2008 to 2018. Those who have a doctoral degree and experience in clinical psychology may see the best opportunities, while those with a master's degree can expect keen competition for jobs. Those with bachelor's degree might see limited opportunities, but could choose to earn their teaching certificate and seek work as psychology teachers on the secondary level.
Clinical Psychologists Salary Information
A clinical psychologist salary can vary depending upon their specialization, place of employment, and whether they choose to work in their own practice or join with a group of other psychologists in a group practice. The median annual wage for clinical psychologists in 2009 was $66,040. The lowest ten percent made a median wage of $39,270, while the upper ten percent made a median wage of $109,470.
Most clinical psychology careers in 2009 were found in elementary and secondary schools. Work in offices of health practitioners, individual and family services, outpatient clinics, and psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals rounded out the industries with the highest levels of employment for the occupation.
