School Psychologist

Overview

Who is School Psychologist?

A School Psychologist is a trained professional who is focused on supporting students, to ensure their mental and academic success. They cater to the needs of students of all educational levels, from school to universities. They provide psychological interventions for emotional, social, and learning problems. A school psychologist shall address issues such as learning difficulties, developmental disorders, behavioural issues, performance anxiety, social anxiety, low self-esteem as well as poor academic performance, and bullying. They act as advocates for the students and assist them in processes issues to ensure they reach their most optimal mental and emotional well-being. School psychologists are trained professionals that aim to create a positive learning experience for the students. They work in collaboration with the students as well as their parents and the school’s teaching staff, to address the student’s concerns and facilitate the development of a supportive learning environment.

Typical day at work

What does School Psychologist do?

School psychologists assist children and adolescents in achieving academic, social, and emotional success. They have a diverse set of talents that enable them to meet the requirements of students and improve school support systems. School psychologists conduct psychological examinations and counsel teachers and principals about the learning, behaviour, and settings of kids. They also offer counselling and individual and group therapies. Working with children and adolescents, both individually and in groups, motivates school psychologists. Their first responsibilities include counselling, educational and personality assessments, and the treatment of behavioural issues and learning difficulties. Their ultimate objectives are to improve academic achievement as well as to address emotional, personal, and social concerns. They can also help in crisis circumstances and with issues like alcohol and drug misuse.

A school psychologist's job consists of the following tasks: 

• Assess, evaluate and monitor the progress of students on an individual level.
• Promote healthy learning environments to facilitate the academic development of the students.
• Design and conduct activities aimed at the skill development of children.
• Research, design, and implement learning programs.
• Counsel the parents/ caregivers of children about the academic, emotional, behavioural, and social problems.
• Provide counselling sessions to the students facing academic, emotional, behavioural, and social problems to help them process their emotions.
• Refer students to relevant resources and professionals as needed.
• Assist the teachers to use effective teaching strategies and recommendations for classroom interactions.
• Develop and implement methods for catering to children with special education needs.

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become School Psychologist?

A School Psychologist must be equipped with excellent communication skills  - both verbal and written - and interpersonal skills to address the issues of individuals of diverse temperaments and comprehension abilities. Some of the other elements that are crucial for a school psychologist includes sharp observational skills and strong reasoning and problem-solving abilities in order to effectively gather information, connect the dots, and draw inferences to guide the intervention process. Familiarity with and adherence to the legal and ethical codes are important for the school psychologist to ensure the safety and well-being of the students. An individual who has an affinity towards children and the ability to provide psychological interventions with care and patience makes for a good school psychologist. Time management and organization skills are important too. Since they shall be working with children and students, they should be able to

Courses

Which course I can pursue?