About The Field of School Psychology
School Psychologists are experts in learning, behavior, mental health, and school systems.
They Provide
- academic and behavioral interventions
- mental health supports
- evaluation, assessment, and data analysis
- consultation with teachers and families
- culturally responsive services
- crisis prevention and response
They Support
- struggling and diverse learners
- academic achievement
- positive behavior and mental health
- safe and supportive learning environments
- school-family-community partnerships
- school-wide data-based decision-making
They Serve In
- public and private schools
- early childhood centers
- universities
- juvenile justice facilities
- clinics and hospitals
- independent practice
The vast majority of school psychologists work in K-12 public schools.
School psychologists can make a positive, lasting difference in children’s lives. They are a vital part of the effort to unlock each child’s potential for success. School psychology is an ideal career for individuals that are interested in:
- Working directly with children and adolescents
- Supporting students with mental health needs by providing counseling, skill instruction, and learning and support plans
- Assessing and evaluating individual differences to identify intervention strategies
- Working collaboratively with parents and teachers to support children’s success
- Changing practices and policies to improve school outcomes
- Engaging in challenging and diverse activities that change from day to day
- Using research to inform practices
- Developing strong team member and leadership skills
- Promoting appreciation and support for human diversity
- Demonstrating the highest standards for ethical and professional behavior
- Helping students thrive at home, in school, and in life
(NASP, 2023)
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022) reports that the national average annual salary for School Psychologists is $87,550. The average salary for school psychologists in Rhode Island is $84,230, and the average salary in Massachusetts is $92,730.
National Wage Estimates for School Psychologists
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022)
Percentile | 10% | 25% | 50% Median |
75% | 90% |
Annual Salary | $ 53,040 | $ 64,880 | $ 81,500 | $ 103,890 | $ 128,800 |
We recommend visiting the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) website for an overview of the field. Our program courses and training experiences align closely with NASP Standards and the 2020 NASP Practice Model.