Salary Information for Psychologists

---

Working as a psychologist can be a rewarding occupational choice. Psychologists spend their entire career helping others. Their typical job duties include assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. In addition, psychologists have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments, including clinics, hospitals, mental health centers, private practices, schools, government agencies, and more.

Since psychologists are needed in such a wide variety of settings, the salaries for psychologists generally reflect the overall high demand for the position. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for psychologists was $69,280 during May 2012.

Average Salary for the Field

Of course, with so many specialty areas available, salary amounts vary depending on where a psychologist works. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also stated the median salary for industrial/organizational psychologists was $83,580 during May 2012. Clinical, counseling and school psychologists brought home $67,650 while all other psychologists averaged $90,020 overall.

Both Ends of the Salary Spectrum

On the low side of the pay scale, salaries for psychologists in poor economic areas or in entry level positions averaged $38,720. Those with extensive experience that had the benefit of working in the right location rounded out the top ten percent with salaries of over $110,880.

Job Outlook for New Students

The job outlook for the field of psychology is promising. Overall, there is an expected growth rate of 12% through the year 2022. Clinical, counseling, and school psychologists are expected to grow by 11% over the same time period. Growth in all areas of psychology should continue to be steady as technology and an ever increasing population will ensure a constant need for the services of qualified psychologists.

Steady Competition

Although steady growth is expected, so is a higher level of competition for existing jobs. For that reason, those considering pursuit of a career as a psychologist should focus on receiving a quality education, excellent training, and extensive on-the-job experience in order to stay ahead of the pack.

Work Environment (Choosing a Specialty Area of Focus)

Salaries for psychologists depend greatly on the type of specialty they choose to pursue. For instance, those who work as industrial psychologists earn more than their counterparts who choose to become counselors. Industrial psychologists earn an average median salary of $53,000 while counseling psychologists only average around $42,000. Of course, those numbers vary depending on location as well. Psychologists of any kind should expect to earn a higher salary if they choose to live and work in a large city or wealthy area rather than in a poor socio-economic area.

Education Matters in This Profession

In the field of psychology, education matters. Salaries for psychologists with a doctorate degree rather than just a master’s degree can expect to increase their salary by over 45%. Psychology is a career built on commitment and a willingness to work through stressful situations with dedication and a positive attitude. This is evident, first and foremost, with the educational requirements needed to get started in the field.