School Psychology Career Research Paper

I researched the career of school psychology. I chose this profession because I am seriously looking to go into this field of study. I have always been interested in working with children and teenagers and a school psychologist has unprecedented access to this specific group. I am also interested in the healthy mental development of children and adolescents and as a school psychologist, children would have easy access to my help; I would be able to help them with many of their problems including issues in school, at home, and with their social life. I think that being a school psychologist provides a unique opportunity to work with a variety of children and their specific needs. I enjoy being in a school setting as well so that adds to the

They help teachers teach their students in the most effective ways to maximize learning. The National Association of School Psychologists says, “they apply expertise in mental health, learning, and behavior, to help children and youth succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally.” School psychologist help students of all ages, from kindergarteners to college students. These professionals also work with the parents and families of students and other school officials to make safe and supportive learning environments for all students. The American Psychological Association says, “School Psychology is a general practice and health service provider specialty of professional psychology that is concerned with the science and practice of psychology with children, youth, families; learners of all ages; and the schooling

As reported by NASP, “to become a school psychologist, you will need to complete a graduate school program that awards a degree (specialist-level and/or doctorate) specifically in school psychology.” In general, students starting graduate school after earning a bachelor’s degree can earn their master’s while they work towards a specialized degree such as an Ed.S (Education Specialist). The specialized degree of an education specialist is highly recommended for people who are going to be a school psychologist. Most school psychologist earn their masters and then a specialized degree such as the Ed. S, but the Ed. S can be taken a step further to become an Ed.D (Doctor of Education). Not all states require professional certification from the NASP but most do so it is recommend that on going into school psychology should get National Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credentials. On the website www.learnhowtobecome.org, it says, “requirements for the NCSP credential include a graduate degree in school psychology… a 1,200-hour internship program, of which at least 600 hours must be in a school setting, and a passing score on the Praxis II school psychology examination.” To maintain this certification, the psychologist has to do some Continuing Professional Development (CPD)