What can you do with an accredited certificate in child psychology?
Earning a certificate in child psychology alone doesn't qualify you to become a child counselor or therapist. However, it can help you better enhance your professional skills if you already work with children or even provide you with an understanding of psychology that can be beneficial in your personal life.
What qualifications do you need to be a child psychologist?
To become a child psychologist, you must first earn a bachelor's degree. Generally, those pursuing this career will major in psychology or a related field. After graduating, you'll then need to pursue a graduate-level degree. A master's or doctoral degree (PhD) in child psychology is typically required to work in the field. To work in your own practice, you will usually be required by licensing regulations to hold a doctorate. Many of these programs require students to complete a supervised internship before earning their degree. Finally, you need to become licensed in your state and become board certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP).
Is there a demand for child psychologists?
As more people recognize the importance of mental health and well-being, especially in early childhood and adolescence, the need for child psychologists can be expected to grow. Psychologists aren't just needed to help parents and children navigate psychological disorders; they can help children better understand the world around them and build appropriate, effective methods of dealing with stress and anxiety.
What is the difference between a child psychologist and a child psychiatrist?
While psychologists and psychiatrists have similar functions, there are some differences in what they do. Child psychologists focus on helping children build life skills that can help them navigate trauma, stress, and their emotions. Child psychiatrists do the same, but may also incorporate medication into the plan. This means psychiatrists must earn a medical degree and have advanced knowledge of pharmacology. Psychologists, on the other hand, do need to earn a graduate-level degree or doctorate but do not have to earn a medical degree.