8 Exciting Career Paths in Child Psychology
Discover rewarding child psychology careers where you can apply your psychology degree to positively impact children's lives. Explore diverse roles and their educational and salary details.
CloseKendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation expert, psychology instructor, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."
Overview
Child psychology offers a meaningful way to utilize your psychology degree by supporting children facing emotional, developmental, social, academic, or behavioral challenges. Some promising career options in this field include:
- Child psychologist
- School psychologist
- Developmental psychologist
- School counselor
- Family therapist
- Animal-assisted therapist
- Art therapist
- Social worker
Let's explore each profession’s responsibilities, required education, and typical salaries.
Working with children combines fun and challenge, ideal for those passionate about helping kids thrive. These careers allow you to make a genuine difference, especially for vulnerable or at-risk youth.
If you seek a fulfilling profession, consider these child psychology roles focused on nurturing children's physical, mental, educational, and social well-being.
Child Psychologist
Child psychologists specialize in addressing children's psychological, behavioral, social, and emotional needs. They work in diverse environments such as schools, private practices, hospitals, and research institutions.
In schools, they support children with behavioral challenges; in private practice, they diagnose and treat mental health disorders.
Education
While some roles accept a master's degree, most opportunities require a doctoral degree for broader career options.
Salary
As of 2024, the median annual salary for child psychologists is approximately $72,862, varying by location, education, and experience.
School Psychologist
School psychologists help students excel academically, socially, and emotionally by collaborating with educators, administrators, counselors, and families.
They provide counseling, identify learning difficulties, foster positive school climates, and develop behavioral strategies.
Education
Most states require a specialist degree (EdS) in school psychology, involving two years of graduate study plus a supervised internship; some states license master’s degree holders.
Salary
The average annual salary for school psychologists in elementary and secondary schools was $82,770 as of May 2021.
Developmental Psychologist
Developmental psychologists examine human growth and development, with some focusing specifically on childhood stages.
They research language acquisition, moral development, and early attachments, or directly assess children for developmental delays or disabilities.
Education
A PhD or PsyD in developmental psychology is typically required.
Salary
Median annual pay ranges from $64,440 to $86,309 as of 2024, depending on experience and location.
School Counselor
School counselors support students academically and personally, offering guidance on educational planning, career choices, and social challenges.
They assist with class selection, college exploration, conflict resolution, and skill development.
Education
Most states require graduation from an accredited master’s program, supervised clinical experience, and passing state licensure exams.
Salary
The median salary for school counselors was $65,930 in 2022.
Family Therapist
Family therapists work with children and families to diagnose and treat mental health issues, addressing emotional, social, cognitive, and behavioral challenges.
They provide individual and family counseling to improve relationships and well-being.
Education
Requirements vary by state; many hold master's degrees in counseling or social work, with some possessing doctoral degrees.
Salary
Median annual earnings were $56,570 as of May 2022.
Animal-Assisted Therapist
Animal-assisted therapy integrates pets into therapeutic interventions, proven to enhance emotional, cognitive, social, and physical health.
Practitioners often specialize in supporting children with developmental challenges such as autism or physical delays.
Education
A bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, nursing, or education is the minimum; advanced degrees in counseling, occupational therapy, or psychology improve prospects. Specialized training or certification in animal-assisted therapy is recommended.
Salary
Income varies widely; physical therapists average $97,720, while psychologists earn around $85,330.
Art Therapist
Art therapists use creative expression to support individuals facing psychological distress, combining psychotherapy with art to promote mental health.
They often work with children experiencing anxiety, developmental delays, or trauma.
Education
Licensure requirements vary, typically involving a master's or doctoral degree in counseling, psychology, or social work. The Art Therapy Credentials Board offers certification programs.
Salary
The median salary for art therapists in 2024 is approximately $49,760, influenced by experience and location.
Social Worker
Social workers often specialize in child welfare, assisting with behavioral issues, connecting families to community resources, advocating for children, and facilitating foster care or adoption.
They provide counseling and support to children and families in need.
Education
A bachelor's degree in social work is the entry point, but a master's degree increases job availability and earning potential.
Salary
The median salary for social workers was $55,350 in 2022, with master's degree holders earning about $13,000 more annually than bachelor's degree holders.
Summary
These diverse child psychology careers offer opportunities to make a meaningful impact on children's lives. While challenging, they provide rewarding experiences for those passionate about child development and well-being.
Explore more about therapist and psychologist salaries and career paths in psychology and student resources.
Payscale. Average child psychologist salary.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. School psychologists: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021.
Salary.com. Developmental Psychologist Salary in the United States.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Psychologists.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Marriage and Family Therapists.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH News in Health: The Power of Pets.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Physical Therapists.
Van Lith T. Art therapy in mental health: A systematic review. The Arts in Psychotherapy. 2016;47:9-22.
Payscale. Average Art Therapist Salary.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Social workers: Pay. Occupational Outlook Handbook.
National Association of Social Workers. Social Work Salaries.
By Kendra Cherry, MSEd
Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."
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