How School Psychologists Make A Difference In The Lives Of Kids

School psychologists typically use psychological principles in school settings to support children's academic, social, and emotional development. They frequently collaborate with teachers, school administrators, and parents. While they often work with children experiencing trauma or mental health challenges, they may also proactively work with kids with developmental difficulties before they become a serious hindrance to their success in school. In addition to a child receiving support from a school psychologist, their parents can often benefit from working with a therapist to learn how to best support them.

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What does a school psychologist do?

The responsibilities of school psychologists may vary depending on their work settings and students’ needs. Below, you’ll find the four primary duties of school psychologists.

A school psychologist assesses students' mental health and academic needs

Evaluating a student's mental health often involves a combination of methods to assess each aspect of a child's development and well-being. 

Typically, the first step is to speak with the child's parents about their strengths, areas where there may be opportunities for growth, and any other concerns. Often, this first step involves asking the parents to complete a questionnaire about the child's developmental, social, academic, and medical history. In many cases, the psychologist will also speak with the parents and child together.

Next, the child may take a series of tests in a one-on-one environment that examines their educational, cognitive, emotional, and social function. These tests usually include the following:

• Intelligence tests
• Achievement assessments
• Memory and attention tests
• Behavioral, emotional, and social development assessments
• Personality tests

It may be worth noting that not only do school psychologists use assessments to identify the root causes of behavioral or academic struggles in school, but they can also use them to rule out any suspected conditions the child may have. 

Support students' academic needs

Depending on how they perform academically, school psychologists may refer the child for special education curriculums or programs based on the student's individual needs, the standards established by The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and any local or statewide policies regarding IEPs (individualized education program). In many cases, school psychologists work with teachers to establish goals and timelines to monitor student progress.

Support students' mental health and behavioral needs

School psychologists may offer individual and group therapy to students. They may work with groups to build social, behavioral, and academic skills, as well as one-on-one with students who can benefit from individualized support for personal and mental health challenges.

Support teachers and administrators

School psychologists often partner with teachers in a one-on-one capacity to discuss how they can better manage students with behavioral or mental health challenges in their classrooms. In some cases, teachers may need help positively interacting with students who need extra attention due to behavioral problems while creating a productive, supportive learning environment for the other students.  

They might also consult with school administration and staff on education guidelines, recognizing potential trauma or abuse in the home, determining when a child should be referred for testing, and when to involve social and mental health services. 

Support parents and families

When a school psychologist determines that a child could benefit from supplementary help in school with academic, behavioral, or psychological concerns, they typically involve the parents and family as much as possible in the process. 

As they do with teachers and administrators, school psychologists often offer a structured report to the child's caregivers, including a list of recommendations for supporting the child's development in school and at home. This might include establishing goals and timelines to give caregivers a framework for monitoring their child's developmental benchmarks and progress. 

In some cases, school psychologists may provide referrals for outside assistance from child and adolescent psychiatrists, child welfare organizations, parental education resources, and social programs that support families. 

Where do school psychologists work?

What type of knowledge and education does a school psychologist need?

School psychologists may pursue different types of education and expertise depending on the scope and breadth of their roles. 

Educational requirements and licensure

According to The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), most states require candidates to complete 60 hours of graduate semester credit in a specialist-level program in school psychology, including a 1,200-hour internship. 

If a candidate chooses to further their education by obtaining a doctoral degree in school psychology, they typically need to complete five to seven years of graduate work, 1,500 internship hours, and a doctoral dissertation. 

To practice any type of psychology, professionals generally must obtain licensure in the state where they work. The licensing standards often vary between jurisdictions but typically involve completing a set amount of internship hours, school credit fulfillment, and graduate program curricula. 

Skills necessary for school psychologists

In addition to meeting academic requirements and possessing soft skills, such as patience, empathy, and emotional intelligence, school psychologists usually must have training and expertise in several areas, including, but not limited to, those listed below:

• Child and adolescent development
• Psychology and education
• Psychology and special education
• Psychological and academic testing administration, evaluation, and analysis
• Knowledge and application of APA (American Psychological Association)/NASP (National Association of Student Personnel Administrators) ethical guidelines 
• Participation in ongoing professional development activities
• Cultural sensitivity and awareness

School psychologist vs. school counselor

School psychologists and school counselors usually have similarities and differences in their job descriptions and skills. However, depending on the circumstances, psychologists and counselors might work together to develop an intervention plan tailored to a student's needs.

Similarities in school psychology

In general, both school psychologists and school counselors must have an advanced understanding of and experience in working with child and adolescent mental and developmental health. They may both collaborate with school staff, families and caregivers, and other professionals involved in caring for a child's well-being. 

School psychologists and counselors may both identify students in high-risk situations and perform crisis interventions. Furthermore, both can support students as they develop better wellness, mental health, and academic achievement.

Finally, both tend to be responsible for cultivating positive school climates where kids, teachers, and administrators can work together to help the school's youth succeed academically and socially. 

Differences 

The roles of school psychologists and counselors usually differ in a few areas.

Focus

Counselors typically have a broader focus on delivering essential mental health services to students and teachers. In contrast, psychologists normally have a more specialized approach to providing services to students struggling with cognitive and behavioral health. 

School counselors tend to focus more on improving mental health and behavioral symptoms through individual and group counseling and education. They usually serve the entire school population. School psychologists may focus on understanding behavioral symptoms and academic challenges via tests, research, and assessments. They may work with a few select students with specific, targeted concerns.

Scope of responsibility

School psychologists might work with multiple schools or an entire school district, while schools typically have one or more counselors on staff in the building. Counselors might request assistance from a school psychologist in some cases if they believe the child requires a more intensive mental health evaluation. 

Education 

In general, school psychologists must obtain a minimum of a master's degree in psychology or other specialized areas like educational or school psychology. They must also complete a certain number of training hours and meet specific state licensure requirements. 

School counselors usually must earn a master's degree in counseling or a related discipline and qualify for licensure. Most states require counselors to complete a certain amount of teaching hours. 

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Seeking mental health support as a parent

If you’ve realized that your child may benefit from professional help, you may be unsure as to how you can best support them. Reaching out to a therapist may provide you with the necessary insight and guidance. If you’re experiencing mental health concerns of your own, it may be even more important to reach out for support.

Benefits of online therapy for better mental health

However, parents often have busy schedules, and it can be challenging to fit another obligation into your week. Attending therapy sessions in person may not always be feasible. Online therapy may be a more convenient, accessible option, as it generally empowers you to connect with a licensed mental health professional from any location with an internet connection. In addition, online therapy platforms typically allow for more flexible scheduling options.

Effectiveness of online therapy

A 2023 study investigating the efficacy of online parenting interventions noted that they often “have positive effects on reducing emotional symptoms in children and adolescents.” In addition, evidence suggests that online therapy can effectively treat a range of mental health disorders and challenges, so if you’re living with any difficulties of your own, online therapy may be a valid form of treatment.