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What Psychologist Do
Psychologists study how people think, feel, and behave. They observe and analyze how individuals interact with others and their surroundings to improve their understanding of human behavior. Psychologists have different roles, like conducting studies, diagnosing disorders, and helping clients.
Educational Requirements
Most psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology, such as a Ph.D. or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.). Clinical, counseling, and research psychologists usually need to complete a 1-year internship as part of their doctoral program.
Overall, psychologists undergo extensive education and training to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for their profession.
How Much Do Psychologists Make?
Psychologists earn an average salary of around $85,330 per year. This varies based on a number of factors, including region, seniority, and the focus of their practice.
Personality Type
Psychologists are often empathetic, analytical, and strong communicators, which makes them a good fit for understanding and helping others.
Do you have the right personality strengths for Psychology?
When considering a career as a psychologist, think about the educational requirements and whether you're ready to commit to the necessary level of education. It's also important to confirm you are a match in work personality strengths with the job characteristics of being a psychologist.
Pursuing a career that uses your natural personality strengths and aptitudes takes less energy to perform. Find out what your best career match is by taking a career assessment test.
Psychology Careers
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Doctoral Or Professional Degree
$102,740 - $168,790
Clinical and counseling psychologists specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders. They use various methods such as interviews, observations, and psychological tests to understand their clients' problems and develop personalized treatment plans.They provide counseling and therapy to help individuals overcome their challenges and improve their overall well-being. They may collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible care for their patients.
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Masters Degree
$144,610 - $210,030
Industrial-organizational psychologists apply principles of psychology to workplace issues. They help businesses improve productivity and employee satisfaction by analyzing data, conducting research, and providing advice on topics such as employee selection, training, and organizational development. They work with management to create a better work environment and help employees reach their full potential.
School Psychologists
Masters Degree
$87,550 - $128,800
School psychologists work in schools to help students with their educational, behavioral, and emotional needs. They assess and diagnose learning disabilities, provide counseling and support to students, and collaborate with teachers and parents to create individualized plans for academic success. School psychologists play a crucial role in promoting the overall well-being and academic achievement of students.
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Masters Degree
$99,560 - $138,860
Clinical neuropsychologists investigate how injuries, illnesses, or developmental disorders affect cognitive functions like memory, attention, and problem-solving. They use a mix of psychology and neuroscience to assess and treat patients, helping them understand and manage their cognitive challenges to lead better lives. Think of them as brain experts who blend science and compassion to unlock the mysteries of the mind.
Psychologists - All Other
Masters Degree
$99,560 - $138,860
Psychologists - All Other specialize in various areas not covered by other specific sub-careers. They conduct scientific studies of behavior and brain function, observe and interview individuals, identify psychological issues and diagnose disorders, and research and identify behavioral or emotional patterns.
Quick answers
What do psychologists do?
Psychologists study how people think, feel, and behave. Depending on the role, they may run research studies, diagnose disorders, or help clients work through problems. Some work in clinics, some work in schools, and others work with businesses, where they use psychology to improve the workplace.
What degree do you need to be a psychologist?
Most psychologists need a doctoral degree, such as a Ph.D. or a Psy.D., which takes several years after college. Clinical, counseling, and research psychologists usually complete a 1-year internship as part of their program. Some roles, like school psychologist, may only call for a master's degree.
What are the different types of psychology careers?
Common paths include clinical and counseling psychologist, industrial-organizational psychologist, school psychologist, and clinical neuropsychologist. Clinical and counseling psychologists treat mental and emotional problems. Industrial-organizational psychologists improve the workplace. School psychologists support students. Neuropsychologists study how injuries or illnesses affect memory and thinking.
Which psychology career pays the most?
Of the careers on this page, industrial-organizational psychologists tend to earn the most, followed by clinical and counseling psychologists. Pay in any of these roles depends on where you live, how much experience you have, and the focus of your practice. School psychologists usually earn a bit less than the other roles listed here.
Is psychology a good career for me?
It may be if you're caring, curious about people, good at analyzing problems, and a strong communicator. You'll also need to be ready for many years of school. Take the free career test to see if your work personality strengths match psychology and other careers that fit you.
Explore the career research on over 1000 modern careers at CareerFitter and begin your journey. Take the only career test with a personality assessment and an aptitude assessment to learn which careers are best for you.
