What do adolescent psychologists do

Take the GRE. Look up minimum admittance score requirements for your school. Practice taking the test multiple times. Consider a paid GRE prep course if your scores are low. Schedule your test date, leaving enough time to re-test if you need to try again for a higher score. Get reference letters. Maintain a friendly relationship with your professors. Make an effort to stand out.

They will remember you when it's time to start requesting references. If you've fallen out of touch with your instructors or academic acquaintances, don't feel intimidated about contacting them. Most likely, they will ask about your goals and interests to learn about your background and aspirations. Choose a graduate school.

Use our psychology database to find the best child psychology graduate programs. The school you select is directly related to your employment prospects post-graduation.

Choose a school with both a recognized child psychology program and a strong alumni network. I'm Pursuing a Graduate Degree Come up with a thesis.

This will create the framework of your early career. Ideally, you will already have decided where your interests lie. If not, don't hesitate to select a research topic. Input from professors can help flesh out a full hypothesis from your initial idea. Find an internship.

Aim to be working while you are in school. Internships can lead directly into jobs and networking opportunities, as well as strengthen your qualifications. Network with professors and professionals in the field. Networking is the most important part of the job-search process. Hone your interview skills with the help of your school's career services department.

Professional communication and networking skills will prove advantageous throughout your entire career. Maintain a professional, relevant and interesting resume.

Ask trustworthy friends or colleagues to proofread your resume and make suggestions for improving it. Remember to update your resume frequently to include your most recent experience. Start sending out job applications. Expect a long and laborious process from application and potential employment. Those with a systematic method will have the best chances of finding a job.

Each phase seeks a healthy balance or "competence" in handling specific tasks in each phase. Adolescence overlaps with three of Erikson's phases:.

Many teens begin to question what they were taught by their parents, leading to challenges in the parent-child relationship as the teen develops a sense of autonomy. A common question for parents is, "How do I know what is typical teen behavior? Parents might struggle with balancing enforcing healthy boundaries and fostering a positive relationship with their teens. There is no minimum threshold to seek some extra support. The primary physician is an excellent resource for what behavior is developmentally appropriate as well as for referrals for an appropriate therapist.

If a parent wonders if therapy could be helpful, or if a teen has asked to see a therapist , it can be beneficial to at least seek an initial consultation with a therapist to address these concerns.

Because adolescent brains are different than adult brains, therapy with adolescents does not look the same as therapy with adults. Things parents can keep in mind if their adolescent is in therapy include:. Adolescents have needs that differ from both younger children and adults. When determining their psychological needs and providing appropriate care, it is important to understand their unique phase of life and meet them where they are.

Ever wonder what your personality type means? Sign up to find out more in our Healthy Mind newsletter. Sacks D. Age limits and adolescents. Grinder RE. The concept of adolescence in the genetic psychology of G. Stanley Hall. Child Development. Blakemore S-J. Imaging brain development: The adolescent brain. Piaget J. Intellectual evolution from adolescence to adulthood. Human Development. Huitt W, Hummel J.

Educational Psychology Interactive. Erik Erikson and psychosocial development. This means I have to stay up-to-date on the trends and the issues. Each presenting problem is unique. While some treatments are straightforward, others require me to get creative in order to be effective. Working with young people is also challenging because it means working with their parents.

Sometimes parents are involved and will do whatever it takes to support their child's treatment, which can be incredibly rewarding. Other times, parents refuse to participate and expect me to "fix" their child despite the chaos and consistent dysfunction in the home.

That presents a significant challenge to my effectiveness with helping their child. I love working with young people. I find it incredibly rewarding.

They are real and genuine. They don't wear all the masks that adults seem to wear. They tell it as they see it, and I respect what they have to say. And when they get better, it's visible!

It shows in the home, in school, in their social life, and personally. You have more training than the average person. You won't know everything, and that's OK.

The majority of effectiveness is the relationship. Just never stop learning! Resources for child and adolescent psychology majors and professionals include memberships in professional organizations, open-source online courses, and academic and industry journals. Professional organizations may offer mentoring services and educational awards.

Open courseware allows you to explore topics in child psychology and review key theories and principles. Publications provide access to the latest information and studies related to your field. American Psychological Association : Serving approximately , psychology practitioners, researchers, educators, and students, APA is the largest psychology professional association in the U.

APA members can access career advice and job listings, attend research conferences and networking events, and review research on issues specific to child and adolescent psychology, such as bullying and the media's influence on youth.

The society hosts webinars and resources, publishes a scholarly journal and a monthly newsletter, and organizes special interest groups around topics like gender variance and the transition into adulthood.

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry : AACAP promotes the healthy development of children and the professional interests of child and adolescent psychiatrists. The academy provides career planning and work-life balance guides to early-career psychiatrists and maintains an online education center with disorder-specific resources.

AACAP has also established a code of professional ethics. National Association of School Psychologists : NASP represents approximately 25, school psychologists, graduate students, and related professionals in the United States and around the world. In addition to offering research guides, policy briefs, a career center, and resources specifically for psychology students, the association administers a national certification program for members and nonmembers.

Association for Child and Adolescent Counseling : ACAC works to ensure that all children have access to comprehensive mental health services, regardless of their ability to pay. Alongside philanthropic efforts, the association publishes the Journal of Child and Adolescent Counseling, hosts an annual research and networking conference, and publishes a newsletter and blog to disseminate news relevant to youth counselors.

Association of Educational Therapists : Founded in , AET sets the standards for the professional practice of educational therapy. The association convenes a national conference, regional workshops, and study groups for its members. AET also offers professional certification, an online resource library, a profile of career paths in educational therapy, and a searchable listing of professional therapists for parents and educators.

American School Counselor Association : ASCA supports the efforts of counselors working to equip their students with the skills needed to succeed in school and beyond. The association hosts a webinar series, in-person and online training in specialized disciplines, and an individual coaching program.

ASCA also provides resources on subjects like creating a school-based mentor program and fostering internet safety. In addition to annual and special topic meetings on subjects like child abuse and economic inequality, the society publishes regular research reports, policy briefs, and press updates. The society's website also features a career center.

American Psychiatric Association : APA boasts about 40, global members working in psychiatric practice, policy, and research. The association's learning center provides access to videos, transcripts, journal articles, and online training modules. APA also offers guidance on seeking national board certification in specialties like child and adolescent psychiatry and neurodevelopmental disabilities. Association for Psychological Science : APS advances psychological science through teaching, research, and practice.

Each year, the association hosts both a national and international convention. APS also publishes six scholarly journals and a magazine. In addition, members can review job openings and postdoctoral fellowship opportunities through the association's employment and career portal.

Introduction to Psychology - Massachusetts Institute of Technology : This course provides learners with an introduction to critical theories and principles related to the study of human behavior. The class includes sessions on multiple specialties within psychology, including developmental psychology.

The session on child development reviews developmental milestones for infants through adolescence. Introduction to Child Psychology - The Open University : This course explores research methods that can be used to assess childhood development — physically and cognitively. Students consider various theories on what influences a child's development and the tools that child psychologists use.

The techniques work with children and adolescents. The instructor also dispels myths and misconceptions about parenting and explains the science behind these often simple modifications, such as changing the tone of voice used with children. Modules include discussions of sensory regulation and evidence-based interventions. The course can benefit educators, clinicians, counselors, and family members, providing practical tools to help identify triggers and communicate feelings.

Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry : This interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed journal focuses on clinical aspects of child and adolescent therapy. Popular articles cover topics like the link between childhood maltreatment and borderline personality disorder and reactive attachment in children with autism.

Journal of Child Psychology : This open-access journal publishes new research on child psychology, cognitive development, infant behavior, and language development.

Writers focus on development from infancy through childhood. Content includes clinical and laboratory research papers, case series, reviews, and practice manuscripts. Journal of Experimental Child Psychology : Elsevier publishes this academic journal monthly. Articles include psychological research on the social, physical, and cognitive development of children.

A new format presents empirical articles followed by scholars' discussions on theoretical or analytical issues raised in the paper. Developmental Psychology : This academic journal publishes research papers investigating developmental psychology, reviews, and articles on theories or methodologies.

Child Development : Established in , this journal covers research on child development from infancy through adolescence. Articles cover timely topics like the impact of social media on child well-being and the science of learning and teaching at home. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders : Published monthly, this peer-reviewed journal explores autism and related developmental disorders.

The journal also reports on health policy, legislation, and advocacy. It also contains book and media reviews and an "Ask the Editor" column that addresses current issues. Autism : This academic journal highlights research to advance the quality of life for people living with autism and related disorders.

The journal uses a peer-review process and contains interdisciplinary articles that discuss interventions, training, education, and diagnosis. This international publication releases eight editions each year. A degree in child and adolescent psychology prepares you for a career that helps people live happier, healthier lives.

The communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills built throughout your coursework are highly important to employers. Careers for child and adolescent psychology majors are available in areas related to counseling, market research, and academia. Many counseling careers require a master's degree. Additionally, becoming a licensed clinical psychologist requires a doctorate in psychology and a state-issued license. A worker's education level, industry, and location all impact their salary potential.

View the most relevant school for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to find your college home.

Child and Adolescent Psychology Career Paths 3. Resources for Child and Adolescent Psychology Majors 9. Frequently Asked Questions Child and Adolescent Psychology Careers. Ready to start your journey? Share on Social.

How to Switch Your Career to Child and Adolescent Psychology Switching to a career in child and adolescent psychology generally requires a return to the classroom for a graduate degree in counseling, behavior analysis, or psychology. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming. Interview With a Professional in Child and Adolescent Psychology Laura Braziel is a licensed professional counselor, marriage and family therapist, and public speaker.

Is attending college in the Golden State the right choice for you? Our guide explores the most popular reasons to study in California. Real estate appraisers are in demand. Learn about how to become an appraiser, including education and certification requirements. Studying for the GMAT? Here are the best GMAT prep courses to help you ace the exam and impress business schools. Compare your school options. Behavior Therapist.

Mental Health Counselor. School Counselor.