How to Become a Psychologist: A Comprehensive Guide

Becoming a psychologist is an admirable career choice. There are many steps involved in the process of how to become a psychologist, and this article will help you understand what it takes to achieve your goal.

We will discuss the education requirements, qualifications needed for licensure, the different types of jobs available, and salary information. Hopefully, after reading this article, you will have gained some valuable knowledge about how to become a psychologist!

ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Who is a Psychologist? | How to Become a Psychologist | Steps to Become a Psychologist | Types of Psychologists | What Skills Do I Need to Become a Psychologist? | What Education Does a Person Need to Pursue Psychology? | Which Degrees Are Beneficial to Becoming a Psychologist? | Psychology Careers | Certifications & Licensing | What is the Work Environment Like as a Psychologist? | How Much Do Psychologists Make on Average? | Are There Opportunities for Advancement in Psychology? | Verdict

Who is a Psychologist?

A Psychologist is a professional who studies the human mind and behavior. This person helps patients understand their problems, find solutions, and develop strategies helpful in everyday life. Psychologists also ensure they’ve done everything possible for their patients before referring them to another doctor or therapist.

How to Become a Psychologist

There are many ways to become a Psychologist. You can get your undergraduate degree in Psychology and then complete a graduate program in Psychology. There are also doctoral programs that will allow you to become a licensed psychologist. However, most states require you to have at least a master’s degree before working as a psychologist.

Steps to Become a Psychologist

With an understanding of what psychologists do and their roles, you may be interested in becoming one. The steps to becoming a psychologist are detailed below.

Choose a Specialty in Psychology

The first step in becoming a psychologist is to choose a specialty. There are many different areas of psychology, and each has its own training and licensing requirements.

Some specialties are:

• Clinical psychology
• Counseling psychology
• Forensic psychology
• Health psychology
• Industrial-organizational psychology
• School psychology, and
• Sport and exercise psychology

It is vital to choose a specialty that you are passionate about and that interests you. This choice will help you stay motivated throughout the long process of becoming a psychologist.

Related Resource: Top 12 Jobs that Help People

Earn a Master or Doctorate in Psychology

Many aspiring psychologists earn a master's degree before pursuing their doctorates. To be considered for most doctoral programs, students must complete an undergraduate major in psychology and take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

The next step is typically earning a graduate degree or Ph.D. Programs vary depending on your chosen specialty and whether you want to work in academics, counseling centers, or hospitals. The length of time it takes to earn a Ph.D. is typically between five and seven years full-time.

Complete a Two-Year Internship

Once you have earned your graduate degree, the next step is to complete a two-year internship. An internship will give you hands-on experience in the field of psychology.

You can find internships through various programs offered by the American Psychological Association (APA) or your chosen specialty organization. The APA also offers a program that certifies internship programs. Only after you have completed an internship can you become a licensed psychologist.

Pass the National Exam

The exam can take up to three hours. It includes both an oral and written portion, which tests you on your knowledge of psychology as it relates to evaluating patients in various scenarios. The national exam is the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). You must pass this test before practicing independently or receiving state licensure.

Get Certified

Getting certified may not be compulsory in all states but can demonstrate your commitment to best practices in the psychology field. It can also offer you some additional career opportunities. If the state you live in requires certification, you must complete an application and pass an exam.

Types of Psychologists

Psychologists are mostly confused with psychiatrists, counselors, and even therapists. While they may share some similar duties, each professional has its specific focus and area of expertise. Let’s explore how psychology differs from each of the listed professions:

Psychologist vs. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors that help people with mental health problems. They can prescribe medication and perform therapy, but they often do not offer counseling services.

Counselor vs. Psychologist

Psychologists work on a wide range of issues, from depression to psychosis. Unlike psychiatrists or counselors, psychologists have an advanced degree in psychology (Doctorate) and are licensed to provide therapy.

Therapist vs. Psychologist

Psychologists often work with therapists to offer a more well-rounded treatment plan for their patients. Therapists do not have an advanced degree in psychology. Still, they usually have extensive training in a specific type of therapy (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy).

What Skills Do I Need to Become a Psychologist?

Besides education requirements, you need the following skills to become a psychologist:

Communication Skills

Psychologists need to be good communicators. They must explain psychological principles and theories simply to patients, colleagues, etc. They are also required to make sense of the patient’s problems by carefully listening before providing relevant advice or information. Communication skills are essential in different situations, such as when consulting with patients, providing recommendations for their treatment or other interventions.

Ethics

Psychologists must adhere to a strict code of ethics that governs their professional behavior. They are expected not to exploit patients’ trust for personal gain, disclose confidential information or use their position to harass anyone sexually. Violation of ethical codes can result in disciplinary action by state licensing boards.

Patience

Psychologists must have the patience to help patients cope with emotional problems. They are required to provide care that addresses the needs of various individuals, including those who come from different backgrounds and cultures. Patients may be confused about their feelings, too overwhelmed by stress, or facing other mental health issues. Hence, psychologists need patience when treating them.

Research Skills

Psychologists must conduct research that will help them better understand their field of study. They need the skills for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data and communicating their findings with colleagues or patients in a manner that is easy to understand. Research psychologists may be called upon to present research results at conferences, write articles for publication, or contribute to new assessment and treatment methods.

Problem-Solvers

Psychologists must have a problem-solving mindset as part of their overall goal in helping patients deal with their issues and concerns. Sometimes, people come with different dilemmas that may affect them psychologically or emotionally. Therefore, psychologists need to think outside the box and find creative solutions. Problem-solving is also important when dealing with administrative tasks, research, and other professional activities.

Numeracy

Lastly, psychologists must be numerate or have a basic understanding of quantitative concepts. They need to understand the basics of statistics and other areas that include mathematical applications such as conducting research, analyzing data, etc. Knowing statistical procedures is also crucial for designing experiments and tests (e.g., questionnaires) for assessing and helping patients.

What Education Does a Person Need to Pursue Psychology?

Particular areas of psychology and state-specific licensing demands may affect qualifications. All significant psychologist occupations require a master’s or Education Specialist degree. However, a doctoral-level degree and extensive experience working under supervision are also needed. Keep in mind the factors above when choosing between alternative career paths. Some jobs need professional certification, while it’s a strong suggestion for others.

Most states require students to pass an exam before receiving their license. The most popular is the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Which Degrees Are Beneficial to Becoming a Psychologist?

Three degrees will help you become a Psychologist.

Undergraduate Degree in Psychology

The first degree is the undergraduate degree in Psychology. There are two paths to take when deciding on this degree. You can choose to major solely in Psychology or mix it with biology, sociology, etc.

The course work will depend on whether the student decided to study psychology alone or take a more general route. However, most undergraduate programs will cover the basics of psychological study such as brain function, abnormal psychology, development psychology, and research methods.

It is important to note that to become a psychologist, you must have at least an undergraduate degree in Psychology from an accredited university program.

Online Master’s Program for Clinical Psychology

The following degree you will need is a Master’s in Clinical Psychology. This advanced degree will give you the clinical training required to work with patients and provide counseling services. You can complete this program either online or on-campus. It is vital to find an accredited program to meet licensing requirements.

The Master’s Degree program in Clinical Psychology is beneficial because it offers students an opportunity to develop critical clinical skills under the supervision of experienced professionals. It also helps them learn how to work with patients and clients and gain insight into research methods that you can use in psychology.

Once you have completed this degree, you must pass the national licensing exam before receiving your license.

Doctorate in Psychology or Education

The final degree you need to become a psychologist is a Doctorate in Psychology or Education. This terminal degree will allow you to work as a licensed psychologist and teach at the university level.

There are many different routes you can take when earning your doctorate. Still, most programs will cover cognitive psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Educational Psychology. It is essential to find a program that matches your interests and career goals. This choice will be the foundation for your future work in psychology.

Those are the three degrees you will need to become a psychologist. However, it is essential to note that these degrees do not guarantee a job in the field. It is necessary to have strong research and clinical skills to succeed in this career. The best way to achieve these skills is through experience and practice working with patients.

Before you enroll in a program, read reviews from current and former students and check the accreditation of the programs.

Psychology Careers

Clinical Psychologist

Helps people deal with mental health issues by providing therapy. They may work in a clinic, hospital, or private practice.

Counseling Psychologist

Provides people help with personal and emotional issues. They may provide therapy or work in schools or other settings to help students succeed.

Related Resource: How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor

Educational Psychologist

Works with children and adults to improve their learning skills. They may work in schools or with students who have learning disabilities.

Research Psychologist

Conducts studies on different aspects of human behavior. They may work in a laboratory or for a government agency.

Industrial/Organizational Psychologist

Advises organizations on how to run more effectively. They do things such as study worker productivity, improve office design, and make hiring decisions.

School Psychologist

Helps children deal with their academic, behavioral, social, or emotional issues. They may work in a school to help students succeed academically or prevent problems from starting at all. School psychologists are also involved in parents’ organizations and volunteer programs that support the school.

Forensic Psychologist

Applies psychological theory to criminal cases by doing things such as:

• Evaluate a defendant’s competence
• Form an opinion on whether or not suspects committed the crime
• Develop treatment plans for incarcerated criminals

They may also work with victims of crimes. Forensic psychologists who primarily research rather than direct service are sometimes called psychological scientists.

Rehabilitation Psychologist

Supports people as they adjust to disabilities or injuries that limit their ability to function daily. They may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practices.

Sports Psychologist

Coaches athletes on how to deal with the psychological aspects of competitive sports. This type of psychology can involve assisting athletes in building skills to deal with anxiety, stress, and confidence issues.

When choosing a psychology career, the most important thing is to find a niche that you are passionate about and that interests you. Do your research, talk to people who work in the field, and go to job fairs to learn more about what each career entails. The best way to figure out if a particular psychology career is right for you is to try it out! Many professions offer internships or volunteer opportunities that can give you a taste of the job.

Certifications & Licensing

The first step to becoming a clinical psychologist is earning credentials. The following are some of the most common credentialing programs for psychologists:

• Clinical and counseling psychologists need a doctorate (Ph.D.) in psychology. They must also complete an authorized clinical internship of one to two years, including supervised professional experience.
• In all states, psychologists must pass a national test. The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology is a thorough examination that allows you to demonstrate your competence in various areas.
• However, it is not enough to simply have a master’s degree in psychology or be licensed. To work as a psychologist, you must also complete criminal background checks.
• There are several specialized qualifications that you may need to practice in a particular area or category of psychology. For example, the American Board of Professional Psychology provides certification in family psychology, psychoanalysis, and counseling.

What is the Work Environment Like as a Psychologist?

Most psychologists work in an office setting, although a small percentage practice in hospitals or schools.

The hours worked also vary, but most psychologists work full time. In terms of their interactions with patients, psychologists usually meet with them one-on-one for 50 minutes to an hour.

They may also administer and interpret tests, confer with other professionals, and consult with the patient’s family members.

Benefits of Becoming a Psychologist

There are many benefits to becoming a psychologist. Some of the most important ones are that you can help people deal with their problems, make a difference in people’s lives, and have a fulfilling career. In addition, psychologists typically have good job security and earn a good salary. Below are some other benefits of becoming a psychologist:

A Chance to Help Others

One of the best things about being a psychologist is that you get to help people with their problems. You can provide them with guidance and support, which can make a huge difference in their lives. Psychologists can help people from all walks of life. They often enjoy seeing the positive changes that occur in their patients. If you enjoy helping others, then this is the career for you.

Work with Different People

Another great thing about being a psychologist is that you get to work with all sorts of people. You’ll never have a dull day at work since you’ll be interacting with new patients every day. Working with a wide array of people also allows you to learn new things and experience working with different personalities. It can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to challenge yourself and grow as a person.

Variety of Career Choices

As a psychologist, you have many different career choices. You can work in research, clinical settings, or teach at universities. There are also many opportunities for private practice. The variety of career choices means that you can find a job that best suits your interests and personality. It’s also important to remember that psychology has many different specialties. Hence, you can find a career path that best suits your interests and goals. You might even want to consider having two or more careers at once!

Flexible Work Hours

One of the best things about being a psychologist is having flexible working hours. This flexibility means that you can work during the day, evening, or even weekends if you choose to. It also gives you more freedom and flexibility regarding your personal life. It also allows you to take on more clients if you want to.

Earning Potential

Psychologists typically earn a good salary, and there is growth potential. With experience, you can move up the career ladder and make more money.

Drawbacks of Becoming a Psychologist

As much as there are many pros of becoming a Psychologist, there are some drawbacks to consider. It is vital for one considering this career path to be aware of what they will face along the way.

Working as a Psychologist can be Stressful

The work of a Psychologist can be very demanding and often stressful. And it often requires working with people facing complex challenges in their lives. It is essential to manage stress effectively if you want to succeed as a Psychologist.

The Certification Process can be Long

It can take many years to become certified as a Psychologist. You must meet many requirements before you can be considered a qualified professional. Make sure you know the time commitment necessary to become a Psychologist.

Work Hours can be Irregular

The hours that Psychologists work can be pretty irregular. This irregularity is mainly because many professionals often work on a contract or offer after-hours appointments. Be prepared for some inconsistency in your work schedule if you become a Psychologist.

It can be Lonely

Being a Psychologist often means spending most of your time alone. This can be challenging for some people who are used to being around others or working in an environment with more co-workers. It is essential to consider this aspect if you want to become a psychologist as it can affect job satisfaction and happiness over the long term.

The Work can be Emotionally Demanding

You will likely spend your days dealing with people going through difficult times and facing severe challenges in their lives. Therefore, it is essential to consider this aspect if you want to become a Psychologist as it may cause some professionals to burn out over time.

How Much Do Psychologists Make on Average?

According to the BLS, the average psychologist’s salary ranges from $44,000 to $82,180 per year. However, this number can vary depending on the location, experience, and type of work a psychologist does. Private practice psychologists usually earn more than those who work in hospitals or other organizations. Psychologists employed by the government may have lower salaries but usually enjoy better benefits.

Are There Opportunities for Advancement in Psychology?

There are many opportunities to advance in psychology. Some of these include:

Get a Master’s Degree in Psychology

A master’s degree in psychology can lead to many opportunities for advancement. With a master’s degree, you could become a licensed psychologist. You could also work as a counselor or therapist.
With a master’s degree, you will have more opportunities for jobs and higher-paying jobs. You will also do more research and teach at the university level.

GetEducated’s Pick: Master of Arts in Applied Psychology / Developmental Psychology from Liberty University

Earn a Doctorate in Psychology

A doctorate in psychology will allow you to become a licensed psychologist. With a doctorate, you could also work as a counselor or therapist. You would also do more research and teach at the university level. The downside of getting a doctorate is that it can take many years to complete. It can also be costly.

GetEducated’s Pick: Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology / General Psychology from Northcentral University

Undergo a Psychologist Internship

A psychologist internship is typically a one-year program. It gives you hands-on experience working with patients in real-world situations. Many states require that you have at least two years of supervised graduate work or an internship before taking their licensing exam.

Get Licensed

A licensed psychologist is the only type of mental health professional that can use the title “psychologist.” When you become a licensed psychologist, it means that you have met all state requirements to practice psychology. This includes completing graduate work and supervised experience. It also requires passing an exam administered by your state’s licensing board for psychologists.

Earn a Board Certification as a Specialist

Board certification is a process for psychologists to demonstrate advanced knowledge and expertise.

Board-certified specialists must meet specific standards set by their particular board. Two such boards are the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) and the American Board for Certification in Orthopsychiatry (ABCOT). They may offer services that are more specialized than those provided by generalists. For example, a board-certified clinical psychologist may provide more in-depth assessments or treatments than a generalist.

There are many opportunities for advancement in psychology. Earning a higher degree, getting licensed, and becoming certified as a specialist are just some of the ways you can move up in your career. Advancement can mean more money, more job opportunities, and greater respect in psychology.

Verdict

The job market for psychologists is constantly changing, and specific techniques in demand are changing along with it. What psychologists do now may not be what they will do in the next few years.

In the end, the best way to become a psychologist is first to become educated about the educational and job requirements. Secondly, it is crucial to network with other professionals in the field and get as much experience as possible. Lastly, never give up on your dreams and continue working hard no matter what obstacles come your way.