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How Many Psychologist Jobs Are There

How Many Psychologist Jobs Are There

Thinking of a career in psychology? Get the scoop on how many psychologist positions exist, and what it takes to get in. Why is psychology great? Discover the resources to help you find the correct job!

Introduction

Mental health issues are becoming more common and so is the demand for psychologists. But, how many psychologist jobs are there in the United States?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2020, there were 181,700 psychologist jobs. Plus, this number is predicted to rise 3% by 2029. This means 5,300 extra psychologist jobs.

Most psychologist jobs are located in outpatient care centers with others in individual and family services, state and local government, and hospitals. The highest paying industries for psychologists are the federal government, hospitals and ambulatory healthcare services.

Psychology can be a very rewarding and fulfilling career. There are plenty of specializations and chances for growth.

What is Psychology?

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the science of human behavior and mental processes. It seeks to comprehend how people think, act, and feel in different scenarios, using various research techniques and theories. Psychology is a wide field that includes sub-disciplines such as social psychology, abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, and forensic psychology. It has broad uses in areas such as education, clinical practice, sports, and workplaces.

How Many Psychologist Jobs Are There?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says there were about 181,700 psychologist jobs in the U.S. in May 2020. Psychologist employment is expected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is around the average of all occupations. The need for psychologists will remain high as people become aware of the relationship between mental health and overall well-being. Psychologists work in various places, including hospitals, schools, private practices, rehabilitation centers, and government agencies.

Types of Psychologist Jobs

For those interested in psychology, there are numerous types of jobs to choose from. These include:

  • Clinical Psychologists: Diagnosing mental health disorders and creating treatment plans for patients.
  • Counseling Psychologists: Offering advice and help to individuals struggling with personal or professional issues.
  • School Psychologists: Working with students on their academic, social, and behavioral challenges.
  • Developmental Psychologists: Examining physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes throughout life.
  • Forensic Psychologists: Applying psychology to legal matters such as criminal investigations and court cases.
  • Industrial-Organizational Psychologists: Enhancing employee morale, productivity, and workplace culture in businesses and organizations.
  • Sport Psychologists: Assisting athletes to strengthen their mental game and manage competition pressures.
  • Neuropsychologists: Exploring the link between the brain and behavior.

These are just a few of the available psychologist roles.

Pro Tip: Try out different areas of psychology to find out which you’re most passionate about and enjoy the most.

Qualifications for Psychologist Jobs

How Many Psychologist Jobs Are There?

A variety of psychologist jobs exist, from research to clinical roles. To qualify for these jobs, you need:

  1. Education: A doctorate or master’s degree in psychology, counseling or related fields.
  2. License: To practice as a psychologist, you need a license. You must complete supervised work experience and pass a state exam to get it.
  3. Skills: Psychologists need strong communication, analytical thinking, problem-solving and empathy.

These qualifications and skills can help you get psychologist jobs in schools, hospitals, private practice, research facilities, and other places.

Demand for Psychologist Jobs

Psychologist jobs are in high demand, with a projected growth rate of 14% from 2018-2028 – much faster than other occupations! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 181,700 psychologist jobs in 2018 and the number is predicted to reach 207,100 by 2028.

Clinical psychology is still the largest area of psychologist employment. But, there is a rising demand for psychologists in other fields, such as schools, businesses and government agencies.

Also, there’s an increasing need for psychologists who provide teletherapy services, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Psychology has a wide range of career paths and a strong job outlook, making it a great choice for those interested in mental health and counseling.

Job Outlook for Psychologist Jobs

The job outlook for psychologists looks great! The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 3% increase in demand. This means around 11,000 new psychologist jobs by 2029.

Psychologists are sought after in many different places. Schools, hospitals, clinics and government agencies are just some of the places that need them.

This is because more people are aware of mental health issues. Qualified professionals are needed to help.

Psychology is a tough career, but the rewards are worth it. The median salary for psychologists is $80,370. You’ll need a doctoral degree to become one.

Benefits of Working as a Psychologist

Psychology is a coveted profession for those who care about mental health and human behavior. It has many advantages, such as:

  1. Potential to help others. A psychologist can make a real difference in people’s lives, by providing diagnostic and therapeutic services.
  2. Job security and demand. Psychology is growing quickly – with a 14% predicted rise in jobs over the next decade.
  3. Flexibility and autonomy. Psychologists can work in many settings, from private practice to hospitals, schools and government agencies. They can also specialize in different areas of psychology or work with different groups.

In the United States, there are around 181,000 psychologists. Most of them are employed in private practice or healthcare settings.

Tip: Research specialties and work settings, to find the best fit for you!

Conclusion

To wrap up, psychology offers plenty of opportunities. In 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics stated there were over 181,700 jobs in the USA. Plus, there’s an expected 3% growth of clinical, counseling, and school psychologist jobs from 2019 to 2029. Research, academia, and industrial-organizational psychology also offer plenty of employment chances.

If you’re interested in a psychology career, you need to get the right qualifications. This usually involves a doctoral degree in psychology or a related field, plus a state-issued license or certification. It’s a good idea to gain experience with internships or volunteering. With commitment and effort, psychology can be a satisfying and rewarding career.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many psychologist jobs are there in the United States?

There are over 180,000 psychologists employed in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2. What types of psychology jobs are available?

There are a variety of psychology jobs available in fields such as clinical, counseling, school, industrial-organizational, and neuropsychology, among others.

3. What education is required to become a psychologist?

To become a psychologist, you typically need a doctoral degree in psychology. However, some positions, such as school psychologists, may only require a master’s degree.

4. What skills are important for psychologists to have?

Psychologists should have strong interpersonal skills, as well as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to effectively work with clients and colleagues.

5. What is the job outlook for psychologists?

The job outlook for psychologists is favorable, with a projected 14% growth rate from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.

6. What is the average salary for a psychologist?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for psychologists was $80,370 as of May 2019. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as experience and specialty area.