School Psychologist

By: LaRyia Ferrie

Photo Credit: nasponline.org

What is a school psychologist? They are qualified members of a school who help in supporting students ability to learn, and teachers ability to teach. They apply their knowledge in health, mental ability, and behavior in order to help children and students succeed academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally. School psychologists partner with many people such as families, students, teachers, school administrators, and other professionals to create a healthy and safe learning environment throughout the school. They also promote connections between the home, school, and community.

School psychologists need training. In order to be a school psychologist, one must receive specialized   advanced graduate preparation involving both psychology and education. This preparation includes coursework and practical experiences. They typically complete a specialist - level degree program or a doctoral degree. Both programs include a year long 1200 hour supervised internship. Graduate preparation develops knowledge in many aspects such as:

• Mental Health Interventions 
• Assessment
• Progress Monitoring 
• Data Collection and Analysis
• Special Education Services 
• Prevention and Intervention Services
• School-wide Practices 
• Academic/Learning Interventions
• Research and Program Evaluation
• Family-school-community collaboration 
• Behavioral Interventions

It is required that school psychologist be credentialed by the state in which they are working in. They must also be nationally certified by the National School Psychology Board (NSPCB) The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) sets standards for graduate preparation, credentialing, professional practice and ethics. 

School psychologist can work in a variety of places. Some of these locations include: private schools, preschools, universities, school mental health centers, juvenile justice programs, and independent private practices. 

School psychologists provide direct support and interventions to students, families, teachers, and other school-employed mental health professionals such as counselors. They work to improve strategies, give support, improve school practices and polices, and provide needed services. School psychologists successfully improve academic achievement, promote positive behavior and mental health, support diversity, create safe environments, and strengthen family-student relationships. Every school needs one as they help students and youth thrive in school. 

Photo credit: pdresources.org

I learned this information through researching among many days because I one day hope to become a school psychologist. I did online researching and read articles about the career, as well as watch some YouTube videos on people's experience of being a school psychologists. I learned that having a school psychologist can really benefit a school as they promote healthy behaviors. Anyone in need of help can talk to their school psychologist about almost anything. They are there to help not only the students, but teachers as well. Everyone included in a school setting may need advice or guidance at some point and that is what the school psychologist is there for.

Works Cited: https://www.nasponline.org/about-school-psychology/who-are-school-psychologists