If you are interested in the mental health field, you might consider a career as a psychologist. It can be rewarding work understanding how people think, behave and interact. To become a psychologist, you need an advanced education and clinical training. In this article, we discuss what a psychologist does, provide the steps needed to become one and answer common questions about the position.

A psychologist is a healthcare professional who studies patterns of human thought, emotions and behavior. They observe and analyze patients to determine their mental health state and diagnose psychological conditions. Duties for a psychologist might include:

Psychologist salaries may vary depending on a candidate’s level of education and experience as well as their specialization and any relevant certifications. Employment type, industry and geographical location may also impact potential earnings.

Most psychologists are paid an annual salary. However, there are some exceptions, like consultants or freelance health professionals who may charge an hourly rate and work on an “as-needed” basis.

Psychologists are required to have a doctorate in most cases in addition to a combination of clinical training and examinations, professional certification and practice licensing. In order to become a psychologist you need to:

Many aspiring psychologists pursue a psychology major during their undergraduate studies to learn the foundations of psychological theory, practice and methodology. Others may choose programs in the social sciences to develop an understanding of psychological theory in action, such as in sociology or anthropology. Coursework in the hard sciences, such as biology and chemistry, can provide a basis in using scientific research methods, which can assist in psychological research. A combination of these fields can ensure a well-rounded undergraduate education for the professionals.

Psychology majors can receive a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Sciences (BS) degree, which depends on your college or university’s approach to the field. A BA may be more suitable for students who prefer a liberal arts approach of taking courses from different disciplines. A BS is likely a better fit for students who prefer the clinical elements of psychology and are more interested in data than theory.

After completing a bachelor’s degree, these professionals are required to pursue a master’s degree. Many choose to pursue psychology or a closely related field, though doctorate programs may accept a variety of educational backgrounds.

Master’s degree coursework generally takes two to three years full-time, depending on the depth and specialization of the program. Programs in psychology, behavioral science or other similar fields offer more opportunities for research projects and allow students to select a field specialty to develop their expertise in one facet of the science. In addition, classes at this level dissect more advanced topics and theories to deepen students’ understanding.

While in masters-level study, it’s a good idea to explore the different work environments available to psychologists. You can select a specialty or pursue an area of interest in the classroom, and you can also explore the facets of psychology through internships, mentored clinical work or volunteering.

These experiences can give you a better idea of the type of psychology that interests you. For instance, working as a school psychologist differs from working in mental health for senior citizens. Determining the type of environment that interests you can help you select valuable professional experiences to refine your skills, develop your knowledge and secure future employment.

They also provide an opportunity to get to know experienced professionals in your industry. You can observe how these professionals work with patients, and they can mentor you as you develop your career.

Doctoral programs in psychology offer either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. A Ph.D. is aimed at scholars who are interested in research and data, while the Psy.D prepares students for opening their own psychology practice or working in a clinical setting.

Doctorate degree programs are highly competitive, often only accepting a few students to ensure personalized and comprehensive study. Candidates can improve their application by pursuing a specialization, completing internships, volunteering in relevant settings and completing masters-level education with a high GPA.

While studying, doctoral candidates often complete research projects and a dissertation. Many programs require two years of a clinical psychology internship under a licensed clinical psychologist as well. Look for a program that is accredited by the American Psychological Association, the professional association that oversees continuing education requirements and the national exam required as part of the licensing process.

Clinical training hours for internships are mandated at a state level. Visit your state board of psychology, and check the requirements necessary to practice. Most states determine a specific number of hours working under a licensed clinical psychologist. Additionally, some require going before a board to present a case study.

If you’re interested in a specific type of psychology, such as working with children or older adults, it may be beneficial to perform additional clinical training in these specialized areas. This step can help you demonstrate your field of interest and secure a position.

In order to become licensed as a psychologist, these professionals are required to complete a doctoral degree, meet required clinical training hours and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, which is administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards. This exam will be given in two parts starting in January 2020.

The first part of the exam is made up of 175 scored multiple-choice questions It tests a candidate’s knowledge in:

The second part of the exam is made up of 170 questions multiple-choice that determines a candidate’s skill levels in:

In addition to these exams, those in specialized fields may be required to complete further testing to demonstrate clinical training and expertise in their discipline.

Psychologists also need to complete annual continuing education credits by pursuing designated professional development. The American Psychological Association maintains the standards and guidelines for the industry and keeps a list of eligible continuing education coursework opportunities. Complying with these requirements maintains licensure and ensures these professionals are up-to-date with theory, practice and developments.

Here are some commonly asked questions about becoming a psychologist to help you learn more about this career:

Psychologists should be adept in the following areas:

Psychologists can work in a variety of environments, but most work in office or clinical settings. They may have their own practice or work in one of the following settings:

Those in private practice can typically set their own hours, while those working for others are assigned hours or shifts depending on the employer. Most work will be indoors with hours of sitting required. Psychologists can expect to use a computer as well to log notes and conduct research.

A psychologist is a mental health professional who focuses on observing and assessing patients as well as counseling them through their behavioral and cognitive treatments. They can provide an objective diagnosis on a variety of mental health conditions as well. Psychologists complete education with a Ph.D. or Psy.D.

A psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor who uses psychology as a basis of their medical practice. These healthcare providers may also assess and diagnose patients, but they are also able to prescribe medication to patients whose treatment plans require it. In addition, these professionals earn their M.D. or D.O.