What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a psychologist?

Answer 1

To answer this, it should be clarified that Psychologists are a diverse group. One may work in the clinical practice of Psychology, evaluating, diagnosing, and, as indicated, engaging in one or more of the numerous approaches designed to assist individuals, couples, families, and groups with any of an essentially infinite kinds of presenting issues causing them distress that usually exceeds the more common disruptions of daily living. Such Psychologists, who are designated as Clinical or Counseling Psychologists, need to have earned a Ph.D. or Psy.D from a college/university accredited by the American Psychological Assoc. (APA) and a similarly accredited one-year supervised internship and additional year of collegial supervision. They must pass a national licensing exam and, most often, a state licensing exam where they practice. Thereafter, they are required to earn a specified number of Continuing Education Units each year and apply for relicensure every two years. They must also know and abide by highly stringent ethical standards as put forth by the APA.

It should become obvious from the above that many Clinical and Counseling Psychologists have what may be seen as the disadvantage of such time-consuming and rigorous training along with studying for and passing of national and state exams. Not only is it a very costly process, but the time it requires cuts into years of wage-earning that other professionals need not sacrifice. Another disadvantage is that the average yearly income for a Clinical Psychologist ranges from about $30K to $75K, which pales in comparison to many other professionals who have less training.

Others work as Forensic, Industrial-Organizational, Behavioral Health, Research, or teaching Psychologists (and more). In general, they all face the disadvantages of comparatively low wages, high expectations from others, having to stay current with emerging research and modes of practice, and being held to a higher social standard than many other professionals.

Perhaps the greatest advantage of being a Psychologist is the privilege and satisfaction derived from helping others, which is the very reason so many chose to start the journey and see it through. The respect that most people have for Psychologists is another advantage. A Psychologist's training and experience also most often helps them to recognize and take steps to resolve some of their own life difficulties or to better know when to seek outside help.

Answer 2

Advantages: rewarding work helping others, opportunities for personal growth and self-reflection, diverse career paths in various settings.

Disadvantages: emotionally demanding work, burnout and compassion fatigue risk, navigating ethical dilemmas and boundaries with clients.