The School Psychology Profession

Last Updated: 11/06/2008

About The Profession:

School psychologists typically work within k-12 public and private schools. Most school districts employ psychologists full time. School Psychologists primarily work with individual students and groups of students to address behavioral problems, academic difficulties, the impact of specific disabilities like autism, head injury or emotional disturbances on daily functioning, the implementation of school-wide prevention programs and other issues. They also work with teachers and parents to identify, develop and implement strategies to deal with home and classroom behavior. Other tasks include training students, parents, and teachers how to respond to and manage crisis situations, how to help students regulate emotions and self control and how to address other issues like social/peer relationships, divorce, death, bullying and other disability related problems.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Association of School Psychology (NASP), there are five major areas where school psychologists provide services: (1) consultation, (2) evaluation, (3) intervention, (4) prevention, and (5) research and planning. School psychologists also act as educators by helping others understand more about child development, behavioral problems, and evidence based behavior management techniques. While most work in elementary and secondary schools, school psychologists also find employment in private clinics, hospitals, state agencies, and universities. Some school psychologists also go into private practice and serve as consultants, particularly if they have advanced training, appropriate credentials and a doctoral degree in school psychology.

A more complete description of the school psychology profession may be found at the following websites affiliated with the American Psychological Association and the National Association of School Psychologists:

http://www.indiana.edu/~div16/goals.html#archivalprofession
http://www.nasponline.org/about_sp/whatis.aspx