School Psychologists
School psychologists diagnose and implement individual or schoolwide interventions or strategies to address educational, behavioural, or developmental issues that adversely impact educational functioning in a school. They address student learning and behavioural problems and counsel students or families. They design and implement performance plans, and evaluate performance. Moreover, they consult with other school-based personnel.
School psychologists are experts in mental health, learning, and behaviour, to help children and youth succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally.
To qualify for the position of a school psychologist, one has to earn a graduate degree in psychology or applied psychology. The subjects relevant to psychology are personality development, psychotherapy, stress management and neuro-psychology.
Psychology schooling is a sphere that implements principles from clinical, educational, developmental and community psychology and behaviour analysis to meet the learning and behavioural health needs of children and adolescents. It is a field of applied psychology exercised by school psychologists.
A psychologist's salary depends on many factors like qualification, geographic location, work setting, the field of specialization, and experience in the profession.
To be successful as a school psychologist, one should be empathetic with good listening skills. Excellent communication skills, sensitivity, tact and diplomacy are other traits one must-have. Psychologists should be open-minded with a sensitive approach when dealing with children and young people. Most importantly, they should have the ability to explore emotional issues with children and young people.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- Ph.D. Psychology
- M.Phil Psychology
- M.A. Psychology
- B.A. (Hons.) Psychology
Tasks
- Compile and interpret students' test results, along with information from teachers and parents, to diagnose conditions and to help assess eligibility for special services.
- Report any pertinent information to the proper authorities in cases of child endangerment, neglect, or abuse.
- Assess an individual child's needs, limitations, and potential, using observation, review of school records, and consultation with parents and school personnel.
- Select, administer, and score psychological tests.
- Provide consultation to parents, teachers, administrators, and others on topics such as learning styles and behavior modification techniques.
- Promote an understanding of child development and its relationship to learning and behavior.
- Collaborate with other educational professionals to develop teaching strategies and school programs.
- Counsel children and families to help solve conflicts and problems in learning and adjustment.
- Develop individualized educational plans in collaboration with teachers and other staff members.
- Maintain student records, including special education reports, confidential records, records of services provided, and behavioral data.
Progression Routes
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