School Psychologists

About the Role

School psychologists are trained professionals who help students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally, primarily within educational settings.

Other Common Titles

Educational Psychologist
School Counselor
Child Psychologist
Mental Health Consultant
Behavioral Specialist

Typical Tasks

Conduct psychological assessments to determine the needs of students
Develop individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with learning disabilities
Provide counseling and support for students facing social or emotional challenges
Collaborate with teachers and parents to implement effective interventions
Monitor student progress and adjust strategies as needed
Educate staff and families on mental health issues and resources
Participate in crisis intervention and response planning within the school
Conduct workshops and training sessions on behavioral management and bullying prevention

Notable People

Dr. Raymond Cattell – Pioneer in personality psychology; contributed to the development of tests used in school psychology.
Dr. Lorna T. H. Williams – Influential in promoting culturally responsive school psychology practices.

Recommended Resources

School Psychology: A Social/Behavioral Perspective
A comprehensive guide on various aspects of school psychology, emphasizing social and behavioral approaches.
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
A leading organization that provides resources, professional development, and advocacy for school psychologists.
The School Psych Podcast
A podcast discussing topics pertinent to school psychology and featuring various professionals in the field.
SchoolPsychology.com
A resource hub for school psychologists, offering articles, tools, and forums for sharing information.