What Does a School Psychologist Do?

School psychology is an area that involves applying clinical psychology principles to educational settings and those interested in this field may inquire about what a school psychologist does. School psychologists are members of academic staff that provide support to students and teachers to help maximize teaching and learning potential. They use their expertise in mental health to help promote the academic, social, and emotional well being of children. They commonly work in elementary and secondary school settings, but some work at even college levels. The main tasks of school psychologists include consultation, intervention, and assessment.

Consultation

School psychologists provide services to students at all levels, from very young children to young adults. They offer consultation to students and their caregivers to provide assistance for a variety of issues, including low self-esteem, bullying, disabilities, behavior problems, social anxiety, and issues in the home. They listen to the concerns regarding academic, social, or emotional issues and help establish a course of action and goals to improve the issues and situations. They help students process the issues and encourage positive reactions. Often times, school psychologists meet with teachers and parents to discuss issues and provide recommendations on ways to help individual students. Additionally, school psychologists also provide consultation to teachers to establish interventions for students in the classroom to increase success of certain students who are struggling. A school psychologist helps the teacher identify issues, establish certain goals, and brainstorm interventions.

Intervention

School psychologists play a major role in the implementation of academic, social, and emotional interventions in the classroom and other areas of the school environment, according to the National Association of School Psychologists. They commonly use systematic approaches that proactively promote positive behaviors in the learning environment. They assist with designing interventions that support students and improve their overall well being within the academic atmosphere. They help create positive learning outcomes by providing targeted services to students in need. They also monitor the interventions for assessment of effectiveness and make recommendations for the necessary modifications. Most schools implement problem-solving systems that involve providing interventions and services to students at varying intensities depending on the severity of issues. These systems focus on high quality teaching and behavioral support, evidence-based interventions, continuous monitoring and gathering of data, constant collaboration of an academic team, and parent participation and involvement.

Assessment

Assessment is an important function of what a school psychologist does. They evaluate students who are suspected of having a disability or special needs. They do this to determine if a student is eligible for special services provided by the school district or the community. The school psychologist administers a variety of tests to determine the level of intellectual functioning and learning potential. The tests also provide a better understanding of both the strengths and weaknesses of the student. A school psychologist may also use personality evaluations to gather information about the emotional and behavioral functioning of a specific student. School psychologists collaborate with teachers and caregivers throughout the assessment to provide a solid recommendation for interventions for students with disabilities and special needs.

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The main objective for school psychologists is to work with educators, administrators, students and their families to promote a health academic atmosphere that meets the needs of children. Those who have a passion for psychology and the development and well being of children should research further of what a school psychology does.