5 answers
Saiyana
Student
Yuma, Arizona
1
Question
Updated
296 views
Is becoming a psychologist a good job for the future? If so how should I start?
Is becoming a psychologist a good job for the future if so how should I start? I’m 12 soon 13 I’m interested in people, everyone has their stories and it could be sad pr happy. Some people would need help to let go or just to share and need someone to talk to, I want to be that person to help someone but is it a good job for me in the future and if it is how should I start in the future to become successful with my dream job.
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5 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1886
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Saiyana !
In general, in the U.S., the Psychology Career has been very good for many decades. The question is, is it the right career for you ? You can start exploring this now at the age of 13 while you are in junior high school by reading books, websites and watching videos on You Tube about what a psychologist really is and what one does. That would be a good way to start getting a feel for if it is a career for you. It is not about helping people or just lending a listening ear as it is much more profound and involved than that.
As a Psychologist you will be administering psychological assessments, develop and implement individualized treatment plans, and monitor progress through ongoing evaluation of mentally ill and cognitively impaired patients. If you become a Clinical Psychologist, you would provide clinical therapy to patients with mental illness, some very serious and it's not a matter of helping them, rather support and creating a care plan that they can agree to. You won't be able to "help" everyone. I mention this because you are drawn towards a helping duty and with being a Psychologist you are there for service and support, treating patients while abiding by established guidelines. A Psychologist is a mental health professional and has patients that have anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias, depression, bi-polar, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, psychotic disorders which includes schizophrenia. You can look up these to discover what they are so you will have some insight about the mental health professions. Social Workers also work with these populations.
You would begin the education for this career as an undergraduate Psychology Major enrolled in a Bachelor Degree program. That would be approximately five years from now. When you are sure about definitely going for this career, you can take a lot of life sciences in Junior High School and in High School take whatever Psychology courses are available at your school.
The length of time that you will be in college for this career will depend on if you go for a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree, the necessary degrees to become a psychologist. If you go for a Masters Degree it will take seven to nine years including your training and licensing. The length of time depends on the particular program. If you go for your Doctorate, it would be, depending on the program, eleven to sixteen years. So consider how much you like school and if a long stretch of being in school is something that you want to do.
Inquire at your current school about any mental health groups, clubs or activities that may be for students and do the same once you are in high school. This will familiarize you with the subjects you will need to know and study as a psychology student and you can participate with other like-minded students. The more you learn, the more familiar you become through future courses and activities, the more you will discover that this is or is not the career for you. You must form an accurate image of what the career is. I have left a link for you below of some videos of people talking about the career. It may be a good idea to watch these. You can also make a visit to your school Social Worker if available because Social Workers do clinical therapy and the social worker could probably talk with you about the psychologist career as well as the different types of careers in the mental health field.
I hope that this is insightful and I wish you all the best !
ABOUT BEING A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST [VIDEOS] https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=What+it+is+like+to+be+a+clinical+psychologist
In general, in the U.S., the Psychology Career has been very good for many decades. The question is, is it the right career for you ? You can start exploring this now at the age of 13 while you are in junior high school by reading books, websites and watching videos on You Tube about what a psychologist really is and what one does. That would be a good way to start getting a feel for if it is a career for you. It is not about helping people or just lending a listening ear as it is much more profound and involved than that.
As a Psychologist you will be administering psychological assessments, develop and implement individualized treatment plans, and monitor progress through ongoing evaluation of mentally ill and cognitively impaired patients. If you become a Clinical Psychologist, you would provide clinical therapy to patients with mental illness, some very serious and it's not a matter of helping them, rather support and creating a care plan that they can agree to. You won't be able to "help" everyone. I mention this because you are drawn towards a helping duty and with being a Psychologist you are there for service and support, treating patients while abiding by established guidelines. A Psychologist is a mental health professional and has patients that have anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias, depression, bi-polar, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, psychotic disorders which includes schizophrenia. You can look up these to discover what they are so you will have some insight about the mental health professions. Social Workers also work with these populations.
You would begin the education for this career as an undergraduate Psychology Major enrolled in a Bachelor Degree program. That would be approximately five years from now. When you are sure about definitely going for this career, you can take a lot of life sciences in Junior High School and in High School take whatever Psychology courses are available at your school.
The length of time that you will be in college for this career will depend on if you go for a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree, the necessary degrees to become a psychologist. If you go for a Masters Degree it will take seven to nine years including your training and licensing. The length of time depends on the particular program. If you go for your Doctorate, it would be, depending on the program, eleven to sixteen years. So consider how much you like school and if a long stretch of being in school is something that you want to do.
Inquire at your current school about any mental health groups, clubs or activities that may be for students and do the same once you are in high school. This will familiarize you with the subjects you will need to know and study as a psychology student and you can participate with other like-minded students. The more you learn, the more familiar you become through future courses and activities, the more you will discover that this is or is not the career for you. You must form an accurate image of what the career is. I have left a link for you below of some videos of people talking about the career. It may be a good idea to watch these. You can also make a visit to your school Social Worker if available because Social Workers do clinical therapy and the social worker could probably talk with you about the psychologist career as well as the different types of careers in the mental health field.
I hope that this is insightful and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Saiyana, hope you're doing well! We appreciate you reaching out and are eager to provide clarity about your interest in Psychology.
Choosing a career is a significant decision that should align with your passions, strengths and weaknesses, personal values, aptitude, and personality traits. It's about pursuing a dream that truly resonates with you. For me, Psychology has been my top preference since my high school days. I've always been aware of my strengths and weaknesses, which helped me make this choice.
Psychology is a versatile field. If you enjoy interacting with people, assisting them in resolving their issues, fostering their learning, and empowering them to make informed decisions, then this might be the right path for you. It's a broad and well-structured field, offering a range of career paths.
The three main areas in Psychology are Clinical Psychology, Industrial Psychology, and Educational Psychology. To make an informed decision about studying psychology, I encourage you to conduct some research about the field as a career.
The demand for psychologists has surged post-COVID-19, with an increasing number of people grappling with various mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, etc. This trend indicates that Psychology is a high-demand career currently and likely to remain so, especially considering the emerging impact of social media on human psychology.
The field of Psychology offers a structured academic progression, starting from a BS/AB in Psychology, to an MA/MS in Psychology, and finally to a PhD/PsyD in Psychology. The specific area you end up working in will depend on your passion and the type of clients you wish to serve.
Here are some steps you can take to explore this career further:
1. Visit your guidance office and inquire about career explorations, expressing your interest in learning more about Psychology as a career.
2. Read about the different specializations within Psychology as a career.
3. Conduct interviews with professionals already working in the fields of Clinical Psychology, Industrial Psychology, and Educational Psychology.
Best of luck on your journey, Saiyana! Always remember to chase your dreams!
Choosing a career is a significant decision that should align with your passions, strengths and weaknesses, personal values, aptitude, and personality traits. It's about pursuing a dream that truly resonates with you. For me, Psychology has been my top preference since my high school days. I've always been aware of my strengths and weaknesses, which helped me make this choice.
Psychology is a versatile field. If you enjoy interacting with people, assisting them in resolving their issues, fostering their learning, and empowering them to make informed decisions, then this might be the right path for you. It's a broad and well-structured field, offering a range of career paths.
The three main areas in Psychology are Clinical Psychology, Industrial Psychology, and Educational Psychology. To make an informed decision about studying psychology, I encourage you to conduct some research about the field as a career.
The demand for psychologists has surged post-COVID-19, with an increasing number of people grappling with various mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, etc. This trend indicates that Psychology is a high-demand career currently and likely to remain so, especially considering the emerging impact of social media on human psychology.
The field of Psychology offers a structured academic progression, starting from a BS/AB in Psychology, to an MA/MS in Psychology, and finally to a PhD/PsyD in Psychology. The specific area you end up working in will depend on your passion and the type of clients you wish to serve.
Here are some steps you can take to explore this career further:
1. Visit your guidance office and inquire about career explorations, expressing your interest in learning more about Psychology as a career.
2. Read about the different specializations within Psychology as a career.
3. Conduct interviews with professionals already working in the fields of Clinical Psychology, Industrial Psychology, and Educational Psychology.
Best of luck on your journey, Saiyana! Always remember to chase your dreams!
Sha Anyanga
Psychologist
21
Answers
Nairobi, Nairobi County, Kenya
Updated
Sha’s Answer
Hallo, if you are indeed looking for a helping profession, then you are on the right track. Psychology in general is the scientific study of the mind in relation to someone's behavior. It dwells much into different stages of life,all the way from early childhood to late adulthood. There are different professions which deal with helping individuals in psychology. As you continue to grow in your career, you will be able to tell which interests you. You should also focus to pass well in subjects as Biology or Arts.
Here are the professions, though not limited:
Clinical psychologists
Clinical psychologists assess and treat mental, emotional and behavioral disorders.
Counseling psychologists help people recognize their strengths and
resources to cope with everyday problems and serious adversity. They do
counseling/psychotherapy, teaching, and scientific research with individuals
of all ages, families, and organizations (e.g., schools, hospitals, businesses).
They are very many, I recommend reading this link, has a lot for you:
https://www.apa.org/education-career/guide/careers
Here are the professions, though not limited:
Clinical psychologists
Clinical psychologists assess and treat mental, emotional and behavioral disorders.
Counseling psychologists help people recognize their strengths and
resources to cope with everyday problems and serious adversity. They do
counseling/psychotherapy, teaching, and scientific research with individuals
of all ages, families, and organizations (e.g., schools, hospitals, businesses).
They are very many, I recommend reading this link, has a lot for you:
https://www.apa.org/education-career/guide/careers
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
349
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Saiyana:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Psychology. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra and statistics will be needed. Other classes to take will be language arts, social sciences, foreign language and AP psychology. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Psychologist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills.
While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information. The guidance counselor at your school can be a great resource and sounding board on how to pursue a career in Psychology. Also, it is best to seek out advice and guidance from your teachers, Physical Education Coaches, club advisors, etc.
According to VeryWellMind.com, the educational pathway to become a Clinical Psychologist will be between 8-12 years. 4 Years will be to earn a Bachelor Degree. A Masters Degree will be 2-3 years. The Doctorate Degree will be another 4-7 years. Then, there are internships, certifications and licensing that have to be earned and achieved along the way.
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-psychologist-2794935
There are careers in Psychology that one can pursue. According to Indeed.com, here are some of the top careers for a Psychology major:
- Therapist
- Psychology Program Director
- Behavioral Analyst
- Researcher
- Psychology Professor
- Industrial Psychologist
- Military Psychologist
- Counseling Psychologist
- Correctional Psychologist
- Sports Psychologist
- Clinical Psychologist
- Experimental Psychologist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Neuropsychiatrist
- Child or School Psychiatrist
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/top-psychology-degree-jobs
According to U.S. News & World Report, here is a link to the Best Colleges and Universities for a Psychology major:
- Stanford University
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Harvard University
- University of California (Los Angeles)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- Princeton University
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- Yale University
- Cornell University
- Northwestern University
- University of Wisconsin (Madison)
- Columbia University
- Duke University
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/psychology-rankings
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and gain entry to the college of your choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career path in Psychology!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a career in Psychology. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra and statistics will be needed. Other classes to take will be language arts, social sciences, foreign language and AP psychology. The combination of these concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Psychologist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills.
While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information. The guidance counselor at your school can be a great resource and sounding board on how to pursue a career in Psychology. Also, it is best to seek out advice and guidance from your teachers, Physical Education Coaches, club advisors, etc.
According to VeryWellMind.com, the educational pathway to become a Clinical Psychologist will be between 8-12 years. 4 Years will be to earn a Bachelor Degree. A Masters Degree will be 2-3 years. The Doctorate Degree will be another 4-7 years. Then, there are internships, certifications and licensing that have to be earned and achieved along the way.
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-become-a-psychologist-2794935
There are careers in Psychology that one can pursue. According to Indeed.com, here are some of the top careers for a Psychology major:
- Therapist
- Psychology Program Director
- Behavioral Analyst
- Researcher
- Psychology Professor
- Industrial Psychologist
- Military Psychologist
- Counseling Psychologist
- Correctional Psychologist
- Sports Psychologist
- Clinical Psychologist
- Experimental Psychologist
- Forensic Psychologist
- Neuropsychiatrist
- Child or School Psychiatrist
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/top-psychology-degree-jobs
According to U.S. News & World Report, here is a link to the Best Colleges and Universities for a Psychology major:
- Stanford University
- University of California (Berkeley)
- Harvard University
- University of California (Los Angeles)
- University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
- Princeton University
- University of Illinois (Urbana-Champaign)
- Yale University
- Cornell University
- Northwestern University
- University of Wisconsin (Madison)
- Columbia University
- Duke University
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-humanities-schools/psychology-rankings
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and gain entry to the college of your choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career path in Psychology!
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
350
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hey Saiyana,
Starting now and while you are in your teen years, you can investigate book titles of interest from people like Henry Cloud, John Townsend, Gary Chapman, Les and Leslie Parrott, Ross Campbell, John Delony and Richard Carlson to see some of the kinds of things people often want a mental health professional's help with. And as you get older you could look into their YouTube content or websites etc., to see more. That can start to help you see the kinds of conversations that people are happening now, which can help you make your own helpful recommendations and help you know how to be supportive to the people you're around in life, as well as deciding what kind of thing you might want to do in a career in mental health.
Starting now and while you are in your teen years, you can investigate book titles of interest from people like Henry Cloud, John Townsend, Gary Chapman, Les and Leslie Parrott, Ross Campbell, John Delony and Richard Carlson to see some of the kinds of things people often want a mental health professional's help with. And as you get older you could look into their YouTube content or websites etc., to see more. That can start to help you see the kinds of conversations that people are happening now, which can help you make your own helpful recommendations and help you know how to be supportive to the people you're around in life, as well as deciding what kind of thing you might want to do in a career in mental health.