Child psychology is an area within the field of clinical psychology. It focuses on working with children, and assisting them in understanding and coping with a number of psychosocial, emotional and developmental and issues. Child psychologists analyze the development of mental, emotional, and social abilities in children. They treat young children and help them get over problems that affect their development.
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The employment of psychologists is expected to grow by 22% during the next decade, faster than the average for all occupations. Forbes has revealed that being a psychologist is one of the happiest jobs in the US. If you wish to do the kind of work that can help you make a difference in the lives of others, a career in child psychology is the right profession for you. In addition to providing work that is elf-fulfilling, it can also prove to be a fruitful career for you.
Child psychologists design and administer various psychological tests to evaluate children, diagnose disabilities and measure their potential to master learning processes. These professionals also evaluate causes of behavioral issues. To become a child psychologist, you need to earn a degree.
Education
A PhD degree is required to pursue a career as a child psychologist. Students can enroll in the PhD in psychology, a research degree that entails an exam and a dissertation or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.), a clinical degree based on practical work.
Some of the courses students can pursue in these programs are psychological growth and development of children, perception and personality development, emotional development of children, behavior therapy and child psychopathology. Students are also required to complete an internship to gain practical experience in the field.
Certificate in Developmental and Child Psychology
Certificate programs are also available in developmental and child psychology. These programs are designed for the ones who already have a bachelor's or advanced degree in psychology and seek to have advanced credentials to improve their career prospects. Admissions requirements vary, and some certificate programs require students to have completed a doctoral program or training in developmental psychology. The certificate programs can be completed in about 12 months typically.
In addition to regular schools, some online institutes also offer certificate programs in child psychology. The online programs are useful for working professionals who cannot attend regular classes due to professional commitments.
License and Certification
Child psychologists may also need to get a license or certification. The requirements for licenses vary by state, but in general, a doctorate in psychology and an internship is required to get one. Candidates may also need to have professional experience and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology.
Employment Opportunities
As the demand for psychologists with specialization in development and child psychology is soaring, pursuing this line of work can help students in building up a strong career. Other than good career prospects, this occupation entails jobs with above average pay, emotional satisfaction as well as prestige.
Child psychologist can make between $39,000 and $111,000 a year. They can find work in clinics or schools. Some also opt to have their own practice. The compensation is subject to experience, qualification and location of the respective job positions.
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Certificate in Developmental and Child Psychology?
Many schools in the United States, such as the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and the Erikson Institute, are offering a certificate program in Child Psychology. Students can enroll in a certificate program in Early Childhood Mental Health or Developmental and Child Psychology. The length of these programs can be anywhere around 5 months to 2 years. If you love children and are passionate about improving their lives, then this program is ideal for you.
What Are the Requirements to Complete a Certificate in Developmental and Child Psychology?
In order to obtain a certificate in Child & Adolescent Psychology, program participants have to complete approximately 9-18 credit hours. They have to study courses like Family Systems & Family Therapy, Trauma & Crisis Intervention, and Psychology of the Life Span. These modules train students to diagnose and cure a number of psychological, emotional, behavioral and developmental disorders in children.
How Much Can I Make after Completing a Certificate in Developmental and Child Psychology?
After obtaining a Certificate in Developmental and Child Psychology, individuals can pursue their careers as School Psychologists, School Counselors, and Child Psychologists. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median pay of School and Career Counselors was $56,310 in 2018. The number of jobs available in this field in 2018 was 324,500. Also, the employment in this field is expected to grow by 8%.