Where do I start when looking for a career in psychology?

The first place is an undergraduate degree in psychology with a likely well-balanced liberal arts education along with math, science, statistics especially and, of course, the full set of psychology classes. This would include abnormal psych, psychology, experimental design and, ideally, some philosophy.

Now if you're asking where you go to start your career after you graduate, I would recommend taking masters level classes in psych. At the same time, look for co-op and internship opportunities, particularly in positions for counseling. The real-world experience does several things. It exposes you to experience in real-world patient interaction. It exposes you to experienced psychologists and counselors whose advice can be invaluable. It also gets you experience and connections for you to decide just what sorts of career objectives you have.

Now, you may want to go further and pursue psychiatry. But be aware that this is a significant undertaking since a psychiatrist is trained first as an MD, and a career in medicine will require at least seven to ten years of study. However, if that turns out to be your goal, it is certainly worthwhile and a laudable achievement. I'd recommend giving it some serious thought!

To start a psychology career, you'll need to get at least a master's degree (for school psychology) or a doctorate to practice in other specialties. To get licensed to practice psychology, you'll need to earn the required degree, pass a state and/or national exam, and fulfill other licensing requirements.