A career in psychology is one that is filled with challenges and fulfilling opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Some psychologists choose to start their own practice and cater to the needs of their patients on a one-to-one basis. Others opt for positions that allow them to make a difference within their community. The fact of the matter is that there are so many career options available to psychologists today that students of psychology might not know just how to find the path that is right for them.
If you are in such a situation and are looking for the right career path for you in the field of psychology, here are three excellent options that are worth considering:
1. Behavioral Specialist
The field of psychology is one that has evolved greatly over the last few decades. While there was once a certain way of approaching the treatment of those who suffer from mental disorders and conditions, these days some of the most promising results are with patients working with behavioral specialists.
The most current research and information available indicates that some of the best methods of treating such patients involves working on altering and changing behaviors in order to intercept and alter the negative thoughts and behaviors that lead to disorders such as anxiety and depression. A behavioral therapist works to evaluate patients in order to tailor treatment specifically to the individual so as to achieve better results overall.
Becoming a behavioral specialist doesn’t involve an advanced degree necessarily. Through programs like the Marian University BS in Psychology, you can pursue this career path by earning your bachelor’s degree.
2. Child Welfare Specialist
Some people make the decision to pursue a degree in psychology for the sole purpose of being able to advocate for and assist some of the most vulnerable members of society. There are a great many communities that are in need of skilled and passionate child welfare specialists.
Such specialists work to develop treatment plans on a case by case basis for children who are suffering from mental conditions. A child welfare specialist might also be called upon to write official reports and testify in court cases so as to ensure the overall safety and wellness of a child. Many of the children that you work with might be within the foster care system and in great need of an advocate who can help them to live their best life.
3. Licensed Psychologist
If you already possess a bachelor’s degree but see yourself owning your own practice as a licensed psychologist, then you should consider returning to school in order to earn a graduate degree. With such a degree, you can choose to specialize in a particular area of psychology and work with patients who are suffering from specific types of disorders or conditions.
The ability to work one-on-one with patients in such a setting can give a psychologist the insight that they need to make a positive difference in the lives of their patients.
