School Psychologists
Overview
School psychologists help students overcome learning difficulties, behavioral challenges, and emotional issues that affect their success in school. They use psychological tests and assessment tools to understand each student's unique needs, then create personalized intervention plans and provide counseling support. Working closely with teachers, parents, and other specialists, they collaborate in team environments to ensure students get the right resources and support. This career requires strong communication skills, empathy, and typically a master's or specialist degree in school psychology.
Did you know?
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related field, with some states requiring specific licensing or certification for youth counseling roles.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$82,333 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Service Orientation
Key Responsibilities
- Select, administer, and score psychological tests.
- Provide educational programs on topics such as classroom management, teaching strategies, or parenting skills.
- Promote an understanding of child development and its relationship to learning and behavior.
- Maintain student records, including special education reports, confidential records, records of services provided, and behavioral data.
- Provide consultation to parents, teachers, administrators, and others on topics such as learning styles and behavior modification techniques.
- Refer students and their families to appropriate community agencies for medical, vocational, or social services.
- Counsel children and families to help solve conflicts and problems in learning and adjustment.
- Collaborate with other educational professionals to develop teaching strategies and school programs.
- Report any pertinent information to the proper authorities in cases of child endangerment, neglect, or abuse.
- Initiate and direct efforts to foster tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of diversity in school communities.
- Compile and interpret students' test results, along with information from teachers and parents, to diagnose conditions and to help assess eligibility for special services.
- Design classes and programs to meet the needs of special students.
- Conduct research to generate new knowledge that can be used to address learning and behavior issues.
- Assess an individual child's needs, limitations, and potential, using observation, review of school records, and consultation with parents and school personnel.
- Collect and analyze data to evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs and other services, such as behavioral management systems.
- Develop individualized educational plans in collaboration with teachers and other staff members.
- Interpret test results and prepare psychological reports for teachers, administrators, and parents.
- Attend workshops, seminars, or professional meetings to remain informed of new developments in school psychology.
- Serve as a resource to help families and schools deal with crises, such as separation and loss.
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements and State Licensing
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related field, with some states requiring specific licensing or certification for youth counseling roles.
Compensation and Funding Challenges
Salaries are typically modest as most positions are in non-profit organizations or government agencies that depend on grants and public funding.
Emotional Resilience and Self-Care
The role involves working with at-risk youth facing serious challenges, requiring strong emotional boundaries and consistent self-care practices to prevent burnout.