Clinical Psychologist Career Outlook

Clinical Psychologist Career Outlook

Feb 6, 2015 | 10:00 am

Psychology has evolved to become a highly important field of study, largely because of its unique way of dealing with human behavioral problems. Virtually all of the various human spheres need the help and expertise of a psychologist. And, clinical psychology is one of the most crucial specialized areas of psychology as a field of study. Life can bring unexpected outcomes often come with stressful and even unbearable moments. Therefore, clinical psychologists and other psychologists engage their highly superior training in helping people overcome and deal with such life-changing issues. Other aspects that clinical psychologists deal with include helping people diagnosed with psychological disorders and mental ailments to manage their conditions.

Clinical Psychology Career Outlook

Different sources such as the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics and Occupational Outlook Handbook show that the demand for clinical psychologists and psychologists as a whole will keep moving upwards in the years to come. This is simply because of the growing distressing issues that come with the vicissitudes of life. Virtually every sector such as companies, schools, colleges and rehab centers require the expertise of an expert in psychology such as a clinical psychologist.

What is the Expected Salary of a Clinical Psychologist?

The information from Payscale shows that the remuneration of a clinical psychologist is rewarding, plus the fulfilling experience that comes with helping people put their lives together again. Typically, a clinical psychologist can earn between $45,000 and $72,000 annually or even more (up to $102,000).

Some of the Career Areas of a Clinical Psychologist

In our previous posts, you will find list of career options for a clinical psychologist. Other options would include the following:

Mental Health Social Workers

A clinical psychologist can choose to become a mental health and substance abuse social worker. The job descriptions of this set of clinical psychologists include these:

•Group counseling
•Crisis intervention
•Social rehabilitation
•Outreach to people battling with substance-abuse issues or mental problems
•Dealing with work related issues
•Dealing with personal problems

These specialists may also apply to work at out-patient/in-patient facilities, including employee-assistance programs.

Therapy and Counseling

Also, clinical psychologists work as therapists and counselors, supervising and participating in group and individual therapy sessions in order to determine the root causes of mental illness, stress, or other psychological disorders in patients. These clinical psychology experts also opt to work in physical rehab centers as well as other medical outfits.

Teaching

People with certification in clinical psychology can also take up a teaching job in universities, on courses about behavior medicine and mental health. Their task will include carrying out research for academic publications.
Substance Abuse Counseling

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Handbook shows that clinical psychologists also undertake substance abuse counseling task. There are different licensing criteria required for this position. Depending on the state, a bachelor’s degree may be a sufficient requirement for becoming a substance-abuse counselor. Obviously, the career outlook for a clinical psychologist is bright, both in terms of the career options available and the remuneration. More importantly, there’s an enriching satisfaction that comes with helping people go through life challenges.