How to Become a Health Psychologist
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Health psychologists examine the relationships between physical and mental health. They need a doctoral degree in psychology with a specialization in health psychology and a state license to practice.
Discover what health psychologists do, their key responsibilities, and how to become one in this guide. You’ll also learn about licensure requirements, job outlook, and salaries.
What Is a Health Psychologist?
Health psychologists focus on ideal health and recovery from chronic conditions or illnesses. Goals include uncovering causes of illness or disease, developing prevention methods, examining behavioral aspects, and improving health policies. They work in hospitals, clinics, universities, and private practices. Their tasks include conducting research, developing programs, and providing therapy to promote healthy habits. Learn more about degrees in health psychology. Health psychologists often collaborate with other health professionals to offer complete care.
Responsibilities
Health psychologists study health behaviors and treatments. They create programs to encourage healthy living. They offer therapy for people with long-term illnesses. They advise healthcare teams to improve patient care. They teach patients how to handle stress and change their lifestyles.
How to Become a Health Psychologist
Becoming a health psychologist typically requires a bachelor’s degree. After finishing a bachelor’s degree, individuals can pursue a master’s degree followed by a doctoral degree in psychology. This may require 8-12 years of study. Specific licensure requirements vary by state due to differing regulations and standards. Check your state’s requirements to ensure compliance.
- 1
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Those aiming to become health psychologists should get a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. Courses in biology, statistics, and social sciences are also helpful. - 2
Earn a Master’s Degree in Psychology
You can get a master’s in psychology, focusing on health, clinical, or counseling. These programs boost your knowledge and skills. Some students choose combined master’s and doctoral programs for more intensive study. - 3
Earn a Doctoral Degree in Psychology
To become a health psychologist, you must earn a Ph.D. or Psy.D. in clinical or counseling psychology These degrees provide the necessary research, clinical skills, and qualifications for licensure. - 4
Satisfy Internship and Supervised Clinical Requirements
Complete internships or post-doctoral experiences in health psychology. State requirements for licensure vary, usually between 1,500 and 6,000 hours. - 5
Pursue State Licensure
Most states require prospective health psychologists to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Some states may also require more exams. For example, the jurisprudence exam tests knowledge of state laws and ethics.
Health Psychologist Licensure
To become a licensed health psychologist, you need a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in clinical or counseling psychology from an accredited program. In addition, you must complete 1,500 to 6,000 hours of supervised clinical experience. Passing the EPPP is also necessary.
You must renew your license every one to three years and meet continuing education requirements. Be sure to check your state’s rules for specific requirements.
Health Psychologist Outlook and Salaries
Health psychologists can expect strong earning potential and job growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for psychologists is about $92,700. Salaries range from $52,430 to over $151,880, depending on experience and location. Those in healthcare or hospitals earn a higher average salary exceeding $102,000 per year.
The career outlook for health psychologists is good. Employment of health psychologists is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all jobs. Advancement opportunities in healthcare include academia, research, and higher administrative roles. Health psychologists have various career options, including clinical practice, consulting, and program development.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Health Psychologist
Health psychologists treat patients by addressing the psychological factors that influence their health. They use techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and stress management. They also use behavioral interventions to promote healthy habits and improve overall well-being.
