Psychology Courses

About psychology

Psychology is primarily involved with developing a better understanding of the way we think, act and feel, as well as what influences us to do so. A psychologist is responsible for providing care, support and treatments to patients who may be experiencing a psychological condition, through assessing their overall mental and emotional health.

This rewarding and invaluable industry provides help to individuals when they need it most and is responsible for bettering the lives of thousands of people every day. Psychologists can work in a number of different areas, including schools, clinics, hospitals or individual practices.

Skills and Responsibilities

There are so many areas of specialisation in psychology, including forensic, clinical, developmental, research and social psychology. While the skills and responsibilities seen in these career paths may change, the basic duties remain very similar. Psychologists will execute a number of responsibilities throughout their careers including;

• Assess the psychological health of a patient
• Counselling and lending support
• Determining treatment techniques
• Applying appropriate therapy practices to help patients
• Conduct scientific studies
• Research and identify behavioural and emotional patterns and triggers
• Promote positive changes to help better patients lives

Job Outlook

If you’re thinking of becoming a psychologist, then now is a good time to make your move into this rewarding and equally lucrative career. Employment in this industry has risen steadily over the past five years, with job prospects increasing due to a shortage of workers in new Zealand and an increase in demand for their services, according to Careers NZ. As of 2014, there were 2, 527 psychologists in the country, an increase of over 300 positions since the year before.

Psychologists’ pay is often determined by the level of experience, as well as what area they work in. According to Careers NZ, psychologists can expect a salary of:

• $51,000- $56,000 for interns under a District Health Board (DHB)
• $65,000-$91,000 for qualified psychologists
• $94, 000- $116,000 for senior psychologists working or a District Health Board

There is also a large portion of psychologists who work in private practice. These psychologists who work for themselves can earn up to $160 per hour for their sessions. many work usual business hours, however, this may change in some serious situations. Psychologists can be employed in a variety of areas such as businesses, hospitals, healthcare services and schools. There is also the tendency to travel to see clients in this career, who may be unable to travel themselves.

Career Outcomes

With psychological services and expertise being in demand in virtually every industry, there’s always a plethora of career opportunities. Many psychologists choose to specialise in a particular area, so let your interests guide you. Some of the common areas that psychologists work in include:

• Neuropsychology
• Counselling
• Development Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Industrial/ Business Psychology
• School Psychology
• Social Psychology