Child Psychologist
By: Amber Dalton
Definition of a child psychologist
A child psychologist specializes in a field that involves the basic principles of clinical psychology combined with child, adolescent and family development and developmental psychopathology. A child psychologist looks at how social structures, such as families or schools, affect psychological, cognitive and behavioral adaption and functioning.
Duties and Responsibilities of a child psychologist
- Assessment and diagnosis of developmental disorders
- Treat learning delays or psychological disorders
- Administer personality or other psychological tests
- Help children and adolescents dealing with social and family-related problems
Education and licenses Required
Doctoral degree -- either a PhD in psychology or a Psy. D -- that includes coursework in child and adolescent psychology. Also they may need to complete a one-year internship providing direct services to children in a mental health or related setting. The licenses vary upon the state you are in.
Expected Salary
The median annual salary for clinical, counseling and school psychologists was $67,880
The median annual salary for psychologists across all areas of specialization was $90,010