Staff assistant psychologists provide support to psychologists and other licensed professionals. They observe behavior, make assessments, and prepare records and reports on clients facing a wide range of mental health challenges. Preparing for a career as a staff assistant psychologist may begin with enrolling in a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology program.
Staff Assistant Psychologist: Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the overall employment category of psychologists will experience 19% growth between 2014 and 2024. That’s nearly three times faster than the national average of 7% for all occupations during that period.
Employment growth will vary by specific occupation and discipline; generally, prospects should be stronger for candidates with advanced education and specialized training.
Job Duties
Staff assistant psychologists help plan and evaluate patient treatment programs for individuals, couples, families and children. Their duties also include conducting assessments and administering other testing.
Often, staff assistant psychologists will collaborate with physicians and social service agencies to meet a patient’s needs. They also provide consultation to primary care providers and health educators on matters relating to mental health.
Preparing written records and statistical representations of client behavior also is an important aspect of a staff assistant psychologist’s work.
Potential Salary Range
Nationwide, the average annual wage for the category of professionals listed as clinical, counseling and school psychologists was $78,690 as of May 2016, according to BLS statistics.
Earning potential, like employment opportunities, are determined by numerous factors, including a candidate’s work history and educational attainment, as well as specific job title, employer type and size, and regional market conditions.
Education and Training
The path to a staff assistant psychologist career can begin with a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology with a concentration in clinical psychology. Coursework typically includes introduction to psychology, multicultural issues, crisis and conflict resolution, and physiological psychology.
Employers should expect graduates of an applied psychology program to be able to:
- Understand applied psychology concepts including theory, trends and empirical findings
- Identify practical solutions to human behavior issues
- Critically examine clinical assessment methods
- Value the key concepts and complexity around socio-cultural diversity.
Many employers offer opportunities for continuing education. It’s possible for eligible employees to gain an entry-level assistant psychologist job with a bachelor’s degree and use tuition assistance to pursue a master’s degree for career advancement.
Considering a Staff Assistant Psychologist Career?
If you enjoy analyzing human behavior and helping others, then working as a staff assistant psychologist could be a rewarding career. Along with excellent communication skills, you’ll need emotional stability, sensitivity, and the ability to lead and inspire others to be effective. A bachelor’s degree in applied psychology with a concentration in clinical psychology can be an important first step to a fulfilling career in this diverse and complex field.