Could I become a forensic psychologist volunteer if I am an undergraduate?
#forensicpsychology
2 answers
Madeline Panzeri
Madeline’s Answer
You could, you would just have to do the research to find who needs volunteers. Also, I do not know too much about forensics. But psychologist is more broad, and there are always professors conducting research projects that may need a volunteer or two. My advice is to just ask your professors now if they are conducting any studies and might want a student volunteer. Also, as an undergrad student, your level of responsibility as a volunteer will not be as intensive as say a graduate student volunteer.
Madeline recommends the following next steps:
Chuck’s Answer
You could start out as a volunteer.
EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSING REQUIREMENTS FOR FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGISTS:
Becoming a clinical psychologist, whether in the forensic specialty or otherwise, requires a great deal of training as well as government licensure to practice. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state. Typically, psychologists must earn a minimum of a doctoral-level degree either in the form of a Ph.D. or a PsyD and complete a set number of supervised training hours in practice before they are able to practice on their own.
Those pursuing the forensic specialty may ultimately choose to become board certified through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). Although not required by law, this certification is often essential in establishing expertise in order to testify in court.
For those seeking professional board certification in the field, the ABPP recommends seeking out a mentor who has gone through the process prior to beginning the application.
Chuck recommends the following next steps: