Dr Julian Navarro PhD LCSW Portrait

Written by Dr. Julian Navarro, PhD, LCSW, Last Updated: October 30, 2025

Quick Answer

Psychology careers span from bachelor's-level roles earning $45,000-$60,000 (psychiatric technicians, case managers) to doctoral-level positions earning $90,000-$130,000+ (clinical psychologists, neuropsychologists). Career paths include clinical practice, research, education, counseling, and social work, with education requirements ranging from 4 to 12 years, depending on the specialty.

Choosing the right psychology career path starts with understanding your options. Whether you're drawn to direct patient care, research, education, or community support, the field of psychology offers diverse career trajectories that match a range of interests, education levels, and income goals.

This comprehensive guide explores 100+ psychology careers organized by role type. Each career profile includes education requirements, salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job responsibilities, and licensing information to help you make informed decisions about your future.

Use this guide to:

  • Match careers to your education level - Find roles available with your current or planned degree (associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral)
  • Compare earning potential - Review current BLS salary data across specialties and experience levels
  • Understand requirements - Learn about licensing, certification, and supervised hours needed for each path
  • Explore specializations - Discover niche fields you may not have considered, from sports psychology to forensic psychology

Many master's-level psychology careers require graduate education. For faster career entry, explore accelerated psychology master's programs that reduce your time to degree completion.

Your specialty choice at the doctoral level shapes your entire career trajectory. To understand how different specializations translate into job opportunities and salaries, explore our comprehensive analysis of PhD psychology career paths and employment outcomes.

Ready to start your psychology career journey? Return to our main site to explore accredited degree programs, compare specializations, and access career planning resources.

The careers below are organized into three main categories: Psychologists (research and clinical practice), Counselors and Therapists (direct patient care), and Social Workers (community and case management). Select any career to learn more about educational pathways, salary ranges, daily responsibilities, and steps to enter the field.

Select a psychology career profession below to learn more…

  • Professions Job Responsibilities
    Map of United States showing 50 top-ranked accelerated psychology master's degree programs across all states with university campus illustrations

    Accelerated master's programs in psychology compress 2-3 years of coursework into 12-18 months through intensive scheduling, year-round enrollment, and credit optimization. These programs serve working professionals and career changers seeking faster degree completion while maintaining accreditation standards. Costs range from $15,000-$45,000 total, with online and hybrid formats offering maximum flexibility.

    USA Flag on Military Person | Airforce Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Airforce Psychologist

    Quick Answer Air Force psychologists are commissioned officers who provide mental health services to airmen and their families, earning approximately $95,000-$210,000 annually in total compensation depending on rank and location. The career requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program in clinical or counseling psychology, state licensure, and completion of 5.5-week Commissioned Officer Training. Air Force psychologists Continue Reading


    Applied Psychologist

    Applied psychology covers everything from organizational psychology to neuropsychology and everything in between underneath its umbrella. But generally speaking, applied psychologist is the use of psychological methods and scientific results to solve real, tangible and practical problems that affect students and animals. It is a very general term and there are a great deal of professional psychologists who can call themselves applied psychologists.


    Army Psychologist

    Quick Answer Army psychologists are licensed clinical or counseling psychologists who serve in the U.S. Army Medical Department, providing mental health care to soldiers, veterans, and their families. To become one, you'll need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in clinical or counseling psychology, state licensure, completion of the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB), and military training. The median Continue Reading


    Biogerontologist

    Quick Answer Biogerontology is the scientific study of the biological causes and processes of aging. Biogerontologists research why organisms age, investigate age-related diseases, and explore methods to extend healthy lifespan. Entry-level positions require a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related science field, while most research roles require a master's or doctoral degree. Medical scientists (including biogerontologists) earn a Continue Reading

    Licensed child psychologist observing young boy during play therapy session in bright, welcoming therapy office with toys, building blocks, and child-friendly decor
    Child Psychologist

    Child psychologists are licensed mental health professionals specializing in treating children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. The career requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), 1,500-2,000 clinical hours, and state licensure. Clinical and counseling psychologists earn a median salary of $92,740 annually (May 2024 BLS) with 3% projected job growth through 2034. The complete path typically takes 8-10 years depending on whether you pursue a master's degree.


    Clinical Psychologist

    Learn how to become a clinical psychologist with this complete guide covering PhD vs PsyD programs, licensing steps, and salary data.


    Cognitive Neuroscientist

    Cognitive neuroscientists examine and understand brain functions and how they relate to behavior and development. Their primary job responsibility is to study and conduct research on how and why humans think and behave the way they do. They combine science and psychological knowledge to try and understand how behavior and actions are controlled by neural activity and functions.

    Digital illustration of a human brain rendered in luminous blue against a dark background, with interconnected neural pathways and mechanical gears of various sizes integrated throughout, symbolizing cognitive behavioral processes and mental mecanisms
    Cognitive Psychologist

    Cognitive psychologists study the human thought process by examining how people process and store information, especially in regards to subjects like language, decision-making, deductive reasoning, and problem-solving. Their research consists of intensive study of the aforementioned subjects and then applying that information so they can help solve real-world problems and help people understand their behavior and the behavior of others better.


    Community Psychologist

    Learn how to become a community psychologist. Explore education requirements, 2024 salaries ($117K median), degree programs, and career pathways.

    Gorilla Being Studied by a Comparative Psychologist in the Forest | Careers in Psychology
    Comparative Psychologist

    Quick Answer To become a comparative psychologist, you'll need a PhD in psychology, typically with a focus on animal behavior and cognition, and complete extensive research training including 3,000+ hours of supervised experience. Licensure may be required depending on your role—academic researchers often don't need a license, while those offering applied services typically do. The process takes 8-10 years after Continue Reading

    Happy Woman Choosing in Market | Consumer Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Consumer Psychologist

    Quick Answer Consumer psychologists study how people make purchasing decisions and what influences buying behavior. They typically need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology with specialized coursework in marketing, business, and consumer behavior. As of May 2023, professionals in this field earn a median annual salary of $111,340, working in advertising agencies, market research firms, tech companies, and consulting Continue Reading

    Professional counseling psychologist conducting therapy session with male client in modern comfortable office with natural lighting and calming environment
    Counseling Psychologist

    To become a counseling psychologist, you'll need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD in psychology), complete 2-3 years of supervised clinical training, and pass your state's licensing exam. The entire process—from undergraduate education through postdoctoral training—typically takes 8-10 years and leads to a median salary of $106,600 annually according to May 2024 BLS data.

    Criminal psychologist analyzing evidence and creating offender profile for law enforcement investigation
    Criminal Psychologist

    Also known as forensic psychologists, these professionals occupy a niche part of the field by helping law enforcement and investigators with important tasks like building psychological profiles, understanding motives, narrowing down potential suspects and examine evidence. They draw upon their psychological studies to understand criminal behavior and actions and help use that understanding to draw inferences and notice patterns in criminality.

    Cultural psychologist conducting therapy session with diverse clients in office with multicultural décor
    Cultural Psychologist

    Cultural psychologists study how culture and human behavior influence each other. They typically need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology with cultural specialization and earn an average of $99,560 annually, according to the BLS category for "psychologists, all other." Career opportunities span research, counseling, education, and public policy development across universities, healthcare facilities, and government agencies.


    Developmental Psychologist

    Quick Answer Developmental psychology is the scientific study of how humans grow, develop, and change throughout their lifespan, from infancy through old age. Developmental psychologists examine physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes to understand how people reach developmental milestones and navigate life transitions at different ages. From a baby's first steps to an adolescent's identity formation to an elderly person's Continue Reading

    Children in Elementary School | Educational Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Educational Psychologist

    Quick Answer Educational psychologists study how people learn in educational settings and develop research-based teaching methods to improve learning outcomes. Most positions require a master's degree in educational psychology or school psychology. As of 2024, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary of $84,940 for school psychologists. The career path typically takes 6-10 years of education and Continue Reading


    Engineering Psychologist

    Quick Answer Engineering psychologists design technology and products that match human capabilities, making everything from medical devices to smartphone apps easier and safer to use. They typically earn a median salary of $92,880 and need at least a master's degree in human factors or engineering psychology. Career opportunities span tech companies, government agencies, healthcare, and academia, with strong job growth Continue Reading

    Environmental psychologist presenting workplace design plans to architecture team in naturally-lit office with plants and city views
    Environmental Psychologist

    Environmental psychologists study how physical spaces affect human behavior and well-being. To become one, you'll need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology with a focus on environmental psychology, which typically takes 8-10 years after high school. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn't track environmental psychologists separately, they fall under "Psychologists, All Other" with a median salary of $117,580 annually.

    Girl on Computer Studying Experimental Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Experimental Psychologist

    Quick Answer Experimental psychologists use scientific methods to study human behavior, cognition, and learning through controlled research. Becoming one typically requires a PhD (8-10 years of education), with 2024 median salaries around $102,000. Most work in academic research, government agencies, or private research institutions, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings to advance psychological science. The human mind remains one Continue Reading

    CSI Team of Experts Inspecting a Dead Body | Forensic Psychology Careers
    Forensic Psychologist

    To become a forensic psychologist, you'll need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology with forensic specialization, complete 1-2 years of postdoctoral supervised experience (varies by state), and obtain state licensure. The process typically takes 10-13 years after high school and leads to a median salary of $117,580 according to 2024 national data.


    Geriatric Psychologist

    Complete guide to becoming a geriatric psychologist: education requirements, salary ($96K+ median), licensure steps, and job outlook. Start today.

    Happy elderly man enjoying outdoor activities in sunny garden, representing positive aging and senior wellness in gerontology
    Gerontologist

    Not to be confused with geriatrics, gerontologists study and research all the aspects of aging, including social, psychological, developmental, and biological influences. Gerontologists study the physical and social changes in people as they get older; they study the actual aging process; they study the importance of an increasingly aging population, and they identify, analyze, and attempt to understand the reasoning behind age-related disease.

    Female geropsychologist with stethoscope conducting therapy session with elderly male patient in warm, comfortable office setting
    Geropsychologist

    Geropsychology is a specialized field focused on the mental health and cognitive well-being of older adults, typically those 65 and older. Professionals in this field address age-related challenges, including dementia, depression, chronic illness adjustment, end-of-life concerns, and caregiver support. Career paths include clinical geropsychologist (requires doctoral degree and licensure, median salary $90,130), mental health counselor specializing in aging (master's degree required, median salary $53,710), and marriage and family therapist with geriatric focus (master's degree required, median salary $58,510).

    Beautiful Woman Enjoying Summer Outdoors| Health Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Health Psychologist

    Quick Answer Health psychologists study how mental, emotional, and social factors affect physical health. To become one, you'll need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in health psychology or clinical psychology with a health focus, complete 1,500-2,000 supervised clinical hours, and pass state licensing exams. Clinical psychologists in healthcare settings earn mean salaries ranging from $106,410–$136,500 depending on setting. Every Continue Reading

    Social Media Office Desk | Media Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Media Psychologist

    Quick Answer Media psychology studies how people interact with media and technology, examining effects on behavior, cognition, and social relationships. Media psychologists research topics such as the impact of social media on mental health, problematic media use, advertising psychology, and how media influences attitudes and decision-making. While many roles require a master's or doctoral degree, some applied positions in areas Continue Reading

    Female military psychologist in professional attire conducting therapy session with male service member in uniform in private counseling office
    Military Psychologist

    To become a military psychologist, you'll need to earn a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, complete 1-2 years of supervised clinical experience, pass the EPPP licensing exam, and commission as a military officer. The entire process typically takes 9-12 years after high school and offers median salaries starting around $92,000 annually for civilian psychologists, with military compensation including base pay plus benefits and bonuses.


    Navy Psychologist

    Navy psychologists earn $60,000-$120,000+ with bonuses and benefits. Learn education requirements, service commitments, and application steps for 2025.


    Neurologist

    Quick Answer To become a neurologist, you need to complete a bachelor's degree (4 years), medical school (4 years), pass the USMLE or COMLEX exams, complete a 1-year internship, and finish a 3-year neurology residency. Neurologists earn a mean annual salary of $271,470 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with Medscape reporting an average of $343,000. They diagnose and Continue Reading


    Neuropathologist

    Quick Answer Neuropathologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing diseases of the nervous system through tissue and laboratory analysis. The career requires 13-15 years of training: a 4-year medical degree, a 4-year pathology residency, and a 1-2 year neuropathology fellowship. Medical scientists (the BLS category that includes neuropathologists) earn a median annual salary of $100,590 as of May 2024, Continue Reading

    Doctor examines patient brain scan tomography for neuropsychology assessment
    Neuropsychologist

    Neuropsychologists study the relationship of abilities, behaviors, and cognitive functions of people. They are in charge of assessing, diagnosing, and then clinically treating abnormal development, medical, psychological, or neurological conditions and problems. They study brain anatomy, diseases, and dysfunction in hopes of better understanding neurological issues that afflict people everywhere.


    Organizational-Industrial Psychologist

    Discover how to become an industrial-organizational psychologist. Learn degree requirements, salary expectations, and career pathways in I/O psychology.


    Personnel Psychologist

    Personnel psychologists earn $147,420 median salary. Learn about I-O psychology careers, educational requirements, job outlook, and how to get started.


    Physiatrist

    Discover physiatry careers: medical doctors specializing in physical medicine earn $260K-$364K. Learn education requirements, job outlook & subspecialties.


    Police Psychologist

    Learn how to become a police psychologist with salary data, education requirements, and career paths. Median salary $137,590 as of May 2024.


    Positive Psychologist

    Explore positive psychology careers focusing on human strengths and well-being. Learn about education requirements, salary data, and career pathways.

    Diverse group of psychiatry professionals and mental health clinicians collaborating around conference table reviewing patient care materials and research in modern medical office
    Psychiatrist

    A psychiatrist's career combines medical training with mental health treatment, requiring an MD or DO degree, a four-year residency, and board certification. Psychiatrists diagnose mental disorders, prescribe medications, and provide therapy. The median annual salary is $226,880, with a projected 6% job growth through 2031.

    Psychological anthropologist taking field notes during ethnographic research in traditional cultural community setting with elders
    Psychological Anthropologist

    Psychological anthropology studies how culture shapes human thought, behavior, and mental health. To become a psychological anthropologist, you'll need at least a master's degree, though a PhD is strongly recommended. Median salaries range from $69,960 for anthropologists to $111,040 for psychologists in federal government roles, with job growth projected at 5-6% through 2033.


    Psychometrician

    Quick Answer To become a psychometrician, you'll need at least a master's degree in psychometrics, psychology, statistics, or a related field, though many positions require a PhD. Psychometricians design, develop, and validate psychological tests and assessments using advanced statistical methods. The career typically requires 6-8 years of education and offers median salaries around $99,000-$105,000 annually, with opportunities in education, healthcare, Continue Reading


    Rehabilitation Psychologist

    Learn how to become a rehabilitation psychologist: 8-10 year doctoral pathway, 3,000-5,000 clinical hours, licensure, $94K+ salary. Complete guide 2025.


    School Psychologist

    Quick Answer School psychologists work with K-12 students, teachers, and families to support academic success, mental health, and behavioral needs. You'll need a master's degree or specialist degree (containing 60 or more graduate credits), 1,200 internship hours, and state licensure. The median salary is $81,500 nationwide, with a projected 6% job growth through 2031. School plays a critical role in Continue Reading

    Social gerontologist with clipboard counseling smiling elderly Asian couple at community center table with laptop while diverse seniors participate in activities in background
    Social Gerontologist

    Social gerontology is an interdisciplinary field (not a licensed profession) where professionals work with older adults to improve quality of life through advocacy, care coordination, and community program development. Most positions require a master's degree in social work, gerontology, or related fields. According to the BLS May 2024 data, healthcare social workers serving elderly populations earn a median salary of $68,090, with experienced professionals earning $97,570 or more annually.

    Multiethnic Group of Friends | Social Psychology | Careers in Psychology
    Social Psychologist

    Discover how to become a social psychologist with our complete guide. Learn education requirements, salary data ($111,340 median), career paths, and job outlook.


    Spiritual Psychologist

    Explore spiritual psychologist careers, education paths, salaries, and accredited programs. Complete guide to becoming a spiritual psychology professional.

    Sports psychologist working with collegiate athlete on mental training and visualization exercises using digital performance tracking tools in university athletics facility
    Sports Psychologist

    Sports psychologists help athletes overcome mental barriers and enhance performance through counseling and mental training techniques. To become a sports psychologist, you'll need a master's or doctoral degree in psychology with a specialization in sports, state licensure for clinical practice, and optional certification (CMPC). Median salaries for psychologists were $94,310 annually in 2024, with specialized sports psychologists often earning $100,000-$150,000+.


    Transpersonal Psychologist

    Transpersonal psychologists use knowledge of the psychology of spirituality and the spiritual side of the human mind to help patients unlock enhanced capacity for thought, creativity, emotion, and compassion. It helps people better understand themselves and analyzes transpersonal experiences and what effect they have on the perception, emotions, and spiritual development of the person.

  • Professions Job Responsibilities

    Army Mental Health Specialist

    Quick Answer Army behavioral health specialists (MOS 68X) are enlisted mental health professionals who provide counseling, crisis intervention, and support to soldiers. You'll need a bachelor's degree in psychology or related field, an ASVAB score of 101+ in Skilled Technical, and approximately 20 weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Specialists typically earn $3,027-$3,675 per month base pay (E-4 rank) plus comprehensive Continue Reading

    Career counselor shaking hands with client in professional office setting during career guidance session
    Career Counselor

    Career counselors help prepare their clients for the start, change, or advancement of their career. They provide consulting, coaching, and counseling so that clients can explore their interests and options more in-depth. The counselors take things like personality, aptitude, interests, personality, and behavior into consideration as they help guide clients towards careers that will make them happy.


    Child Abuse Counselor

    Quick Answer Child abuse counselors are specialized mental health professionals who help children recover from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse or neglect through therapeutic interventions like play therapy and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. Becoming a child abuse counselor requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work, 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and state licensure. The median salary Continue Reading


    Child/Pediatric Counselor

    Quick Answer:To become a child counselor, you'll need a master's degree in counseling or psychology (2-3 years), complete 2,000-3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and obtain state licensure as an LPC, LMHC, or LMFT. The entire process takes 6-8 years from the start of your bachelor's degree. Child counselors earn a median salary of $59,190 annually and help children ages Continue Reading


    Conflict Resolution

    Explore conflict resolution careers with median salaries of $67,710. Discover education requirements, 20+ specializations, and job growth in mediation careers.


    Crisis Intervention Specialist

    Quick Answer Crisis intervention specialists provide immediate psychological support during acute emotional crises. Most clinical positions require a master's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology, plus state licensure (LCSW, LPC, or LMFT). Mental health counselors earn a median salary of $59,190 nationally, with strong job growth projected at 12% through 2032. When crisis strikes—whether through trauma, loss, mental health Continue Reading

    Professional depression counselor conducting therapy session with male client in warm, modern counseling office with natural lighting and plants
    Depression Counselor

    Depression counselors help individuals overcome clinical depression through evidence-based therapy, counseling, and comprehensive treatment planning. To become a depression counselor, you'll need a Master's degree in counseling or psychology, 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and state licensure (typically as an LPC or LMHC). The median salary is $59,190 nationally, with top earners making over $98,210 annually. Job growth is projected at 18% through 2032, much faster than average.

    Domestic violence counselor providing supportive therapy to survivor in private counseling office with warm natural lighting and empathetic body language
    Domestic Violence Counselor

    To become a domestic violence counselor, you'll need a master's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology, complete 2,000-3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience working with abuse survivors, and obtain state licensure. The full path to independent licensure typically spans 6-8 years, with median annual salaries ranging from $39,090 to $98,210 based on experience and location (2024 BLS data).


    Geriatric Counselor

    Quick Answer Geriatric counselors are licensed mental health professionals who specialize in helping older adults navigate aging-related challenges like depression, grief, chronic illness adjustment, and cognitive decline. Becoming a geriatric counselor requires a master's degree in counseling or social work, 2,000-4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and state licensure. Median salaries range from $59,190 to $69,480 annually, depending on credentials Continue Reading

    Professional grief counselor conducting therapy session with client in comfortable office with plants and natural lighting
    Grief Counselor

    To become a grief counselor, you'll need a master's degree in counseling, social work, or psychology, 2,000-3,000 supervised clinical hours, and pass your state's licensing exam (LPC, LCSW, or LMFT). The median salary is $59,190 annually, with experienced counselors earning $98,210+. The path takes 6-8 years from a bachelor's degree to full licensure.


    Pastoral Counselor

    Complete guide to pastoral counseling careers: education requirements, CPE certification, salary data ($59K-$98K), specializations, and career paths.


    School Counselor

    Quick Answer School counselors are licensed professionals who help students develop academically, socially, and emotionally from elementary through high school. They assist with course selection, college planning, behavior management, and mental health support. The career requires a master's degree in school counseling or a related field, state licensure, and typically 600-700 clinical hours. The median salary is $65,140 as of Continue Reading

    Person standing on mountain peak with arms raised toward sky at sunrise, symbolizing spiritual growth and personal transformation
    Spiritual Counselor

    Spiritual counselors deal with patients who have suffered spiritual trauma or dissatisfaction and they help these patients get in touch with their spirituality, understand what is afflicting them, and overcome or deal with that issue. These counselors combine their spiritual or religious knowledge with an in-depth understanding of the psychology behind the issues so that their patients can live happy and fulfilling lives.


    Suicide Intervention Counselor

    Suicide prevention counselors need a master's degree, licensure, and crisis training. Learn about education paths, $59K+ salary, and career opportunities.


    Veterans Counselor

    Quick Answer Veterans counselors help military service members transition to civilian life by addressing PTSD, depression, anxiety, and adjustment challenges. To become one, you'll need a master's degree in counseling, 2,000-4,000 supervised clinical hours, and state licensure. The median salary is $59,190 annually, with demand expected to grow 19% through 2032. Table of Contents What Is Veterans Counseling? Why Veterans Continue Reading

  • Professions Job Responsibilities

    Art Therapist

    Quick Answer To become an art therapist, you'll need a master's degree in art therapy, counseling, or marriage and family therapy with an art therapy concentration. This requires approximately 7-9 years total, including supervised clinical experience. You must complete 1,500-4,000 supervised clinical hour,s depending on licensure path and state, then pass licensing exams to become an LPC or LMFT. Licensed Continue Reading

    Cognitive psychologist providing supportive counseling to distressed female client during therapy session in bright office setting, illustrating clinical cognitive psychology practice
    Cognitive Behavioral Therapist

    Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that takes a practical and tangible approach to solving issues. CBT is designed to help people change the way they think and the way they behave in order to help ease or even solve someone's issues. It is used in a wide variety of cases including things like depression or relationship issues, but its effectiveness stems from its ability to help people think about how their attitudes and beliefs are affecting their behavior. Once that is understood, it can be used to help affect change in that behavior.

    Group of Friends Dancing | Dance/Movement Therapy | Careers in Psychology
    Dance / Movement Therapist

    Quick Answer To become a dance movement therapist, you'll need a master's degree in mental health counseling or a related field, plus specialized training through an ADTA-approved program or alternative certification route. The R-DMT credential requires supervised clinical experience and typically takes 6-8 years, depending on your educational background and training path. Dance movement therapists earn a national median salary Continue Reading


    Exercise Therapist

    Learn how to become an exercise therapist. Explore education requirements, 2024 salary data ($59K median), certification, job outlook & work settings.


    Existential Therapist

    Quick Answer Existential therapy is a philosophical approach to psychotherapy that helps clients explore fundamental questions about meaning, freedom, responsibility, and authenticity. Becoming an existential therapist typically requires a master's or doctoral degree in counseling or clinical psychology, state licensure (typically around 3,000 supervised hours, though requirements vary by state), and specialized training in existential-humanistic approaches. Mental health counselors who Continue Reading


    Life Coach

    Quick Answer To become a life coach, you don't need a license, but you should earn ICF or IAC certification through a training program. Most ICF-accredited programs require 60-200+ hours of training, with costs typically between $3,000 and $12,000. IAC has fewer rigid training hour requirements. Most successful coaches also pursue a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology, counseling, or Continue Reading

    Smiling Couple in Marriage and Family Therapy | Careers in Psychology
    Marriage Family Therapist

    Learn how to become an MFT with this complete guide covering education requirements, licensure steps, salary data, and career outlook for 2025.

    Man Listening to Music | Music Therapy | Careers in Psychology
    Musical Therapist

    Learn how to become a certified music therapist. Get details on AMTA programs, MT-BC certification, 1,200 clinical hours, salary, and career paths.

    Person Meeting with a Physical Therapist | Careers in Psychology
    Physical Therapist

    To become a physical therapist, you need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which takes 3 years after earning a bachelor's degree. You must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and obtain state licensure. The entire process typically takes 7-8 years, with median salaries of $97,720 annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2022 data).


    Psychiatric Nurse

    Quick Answer Psychiatric nurses are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who specialize in mental health care. To become a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse (PMHN), you need a master's degree in psychiatric-mental health nursing (MSN), APRN licensure in your state, and national board certification. The median salary for nurse practitioners is $132,050 as of 2024, with psychiatric NPs earning among the highest Continue Reading

    Psychotherapist conducting counseling session with female client in modern therapy office with calming decor
    Psychotherapist

    Psychotherapy careers include clinical psychologists (PhD/PsyD required, median $96,100), psychiatrists (MD required, median $249,760), marriage and family therapists (master's required, median $63,780), mental health counselors (master's required, median $59,190), and clinical social workers (MSW required, median $60,060). Most roles require 6-10 years of education, supervised training, and state licensure. Job growth ranges from 6% to 22% through 2034.

    Couple Laying on the Ground Surrounded by Hearts | Sex Therapy | Careers in Psychology
    Sex Therapist

    Quick Answer Sex therapists help individuals and couples overcome sexual difficulties through clinical counseling. To become a certified sex therapist, you'll need a master's degree in psychology, counseling, or social work (typically 6-8 years total education), complete 300+ hours of specialized sex therapy training, obtain AASECT certification, and secure state licensure. As of 2024, marriage and family therapists earn a Continue Reading


    Speech Pathologist

    Discover how to become a speech-language pathologist. Explore salary data ($95,410 median), education requirements, job outlook, and career pathways.


    Transpersonal Therapist

    Quick Answer Transpersonal therapists help clients explore spiritual dimensions of healing alongside mental and emotional health. This career requires a master's or doctoral degree in psychology or counseling, state licensure (with supervised hour requirements varying by state and license type—typically 2,000-4,000 hours), and specialized training in transpersonal methods. According to BLS data for the broader "Therapists, All Other" category, the Continue Reading

  • Professions Job Responsibilities
    Child welfare social worker conducting family assessment meeting with parents and two children in professional office setting with child-friendly environment
    Child/Pediatric Social Worker

    Child welfare social workers protect children from abuse, neglect, and unsafe living conditions. They investigate reports, assess home environments, coordinate family services, and, when necessary, arrange safe placements for at-risk children. The career typically requires a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW), though many roles—primarily licensed or supervisory positions—require a Master of Social Work (MSW) and state licensure. Median salaries are $58,570 annually. The work is emotionally challenging but deeply rewarding for those committed to child safety and family wellbeing.


    Family Social Worker

    Family social workers earn $50,820 median salary. Learn education requirements, licensing steps, and career paths. BSW to LCSW roadmap inside.


    Probation Officer

    Learn how to become a probation officer. Explore degree requirements, certifications, training, and salary data ($64,520 median) in this complete guide.


    Victim Advocate

    Quick Answer Victim advocates support crime survivors through crisis intervention, legal system navigation, and connection to essential resources. Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or criminal justice, with many advocates holding master's degrees. According to May 2024 BLS data, social workers in categories that include victim advocacy earn median salaries between $58,570 and $69,480 Continue Reading