How Being a Psychologist Can Benefit You

Find Meaning in Helping Others

One of the major attractions of becoming a psychologist is the opportunity to help others. If you enjoy working with people, a career in psychology is a great choice. While the job can be stressful at times, many psychologists describe their jobs as gratifying and fulfilling.

Have a Flexible Work Schedule

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Department of Labor, 29% of psychologists are self-employed with a median pay of around $79,000 per year. If you operate your own therapy practice, you can basically set your own hours.

Psychologists who work in hospitals or mental health offices may not have as flexible work schedules as their self-employed counterparts, but there are still plenty of opportunities to set hours that work with your life and family demands.

Earn a Potentially High Salary

While money isn't the only reason to choose a certain career, psychologists are generally well-compensated for their time and effort. On average, psychologists earn between $43,800 to $129,250 annually.

It is important to note these salaries reflect professionals who hold advanced degrees in their fields. Those who have earned an undergraduate degree in psychology cannot refer to themselves as psychologists, as it is a legally protected title. Those with bachelor's level degrees also face lower salaries and fewer job options than those with more training.

Run Your Own Business

If you enjoy working for yourself and have an entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a psychologist can be an excellent career choice. Establishing your own private therapy practice gives you the opportunity to have full control over your career.

Psychologists working in specialized fields such as industrial-organizational psychology, educational psychology, and forensic psychology may also find opportunities for self-employment as private consultants.

Encounter Plenty of New Challenges

The field of psychology is both diverse and challenging, so no matter which type you choose to pursue, you probably won't find yourself bored very often.

Clinical psychologists face constant challenges from clients who need their help in solving problems. Other specialty areas such as sports psychology and forensic psychology face their own unique demands and obstacles. Being a psychologist might be stressful at times, but the profession presents intellectual challenges that keep the job interesting.

Meet a Wide Variety of People

If you enjoy working with people and helping them achieve their full potential, then becoming a psychologist can be extremely rewarding.

Whether you are working exclusively with children, adults, married couples or families, you will have the opportunity to meet and help people from all walks of life.