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Is Counselling Psychology a good Career? Everything you need to know

Author : Pooja Manchanda

July 14, 2024

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Readers’s Digest: Do you believe that you are a reasonable listener and observer? Do you wish to support those who are struggling with behavioral or emotional issues? If so, you ought to consider pursuing a profession in counseling psychology.

Counselors in psychology are experts who offer direction and advice to a person or group that needs it. Psychologists that provide counseling assist clients in overcoming emotional health issues. Given the increasing recognition of mental health importance, careers in counseling psychology offer fulfilling opportunities to positively impact people's lives. 

Counselors in psychology would handle issues such as:

  • Concerns about the environment at work or school
  • Choosing a career path
  • Relationship guidance (friends, family, and married)
  • Issues with learning capacities
  • Emotional problems
  • Examination of personality and many other things 

Topics to be covered: 

  • What is Psychology?
  • Benefits of a Career in Psychology
  • Types of Psychology 
  • Roles and Responsibilities of a Counselling Psychologist
  • How to Become a Counselling Psychologist in India 
  • Career Prospects of a Career in Counselling Psychology 
  • Top Colleges to Study Counselling Psychology
  • Is Psychology a good Career? 

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What is Psychology? 

  • The scientific study of the mind and behavior is known as psychology. It investigates the intricate mechanisms behind human motives, feelings, ideas, and behaviors. 
  • Psychologists study people's perceptions, thoughts, and behaviors in relation to their environment.
  • They investigate a range of topics related to human behavior, such as social relationships, mental health, personality, development, and cognitive processes.
  • Psychologists seek to understand human behavior via research, utilizing psychological theories and methods. They then use this understanding to improve mental health, promote well-being, and address social challenges.
  • Numerous subfields fall under the umbrella of psychology, including social psychology, cognitive psychology, clinical psychology, and counseling psychology. 

Benefits of a Career in Psychology 

Benefits 

Description 

Assisting Others 

Being able to assist people in enhancing their mental health and leading satisfying lives is among the most satisfying aspects of a job in psychology. 

Diverse Career Opportunities 

Professionals in psychology have access to a diverse array of job options due to the large number of subfields within the field. 

Personal Growth and Self-Reflection 

Psychology is always changing, providing opportunities for lifelong learning and continual intellectual stimulation. 

Flexibility and Autonomy 

Jobs in psychology frequently allow for schedule and work environment flexibility. Psychologists have various employment options, including corporate settings, government offices, hospitals, schools, and research facilities. 

Competitive Salaries and Job Security 

Psychologists often offer competitive pay, though exact remuneration may vary based on experience level and field. 

Contribution to Society 

By supporting mental health, fighting for better wellbeing, and tackling societal concerns, psychologists make a positive contribution to society. 

Read More: Benefits of Career Planning for Students 

Types of Psychology 

Type  Focus 
Clinical Psychologists  This subspecialty of psychology is concerned with the evaluation, identification, and management of psychological disorders. 
Counseling Psychology   Like clinical psychology, counseling psychology is concerned with supporting people in overcoming emotional and personal obstacles. 
Developmental Psychology  This area of study examines how people develop from early childhood to old age. 
Educational Psychology  Psychologists that specialize in education examine how people grow and learn in learning environments. 
Social Psychology  Social psychology studies how other people's presence and social interactions affect people's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. 
Cognitive Psychology  Cognitive psychology is the study of mental functions like perception, memory, attention, problem-solving, and decision-making. 
Industrial-Organizational Psychology  Industrial psychology is incorporated in industrial-organizational psychology. Researchers in industrial-organizational psychology study topics like employee motivation, leadership, hiring procedures, and organizational behavior. 
Forensic Psychology  Forensic psychology is the application of psychological concepts to legal and criminal justice contexts. 
Health Psychology  The relationship between mental and physical health is the main area of study for health psychologists. 
Sports Psychology  To improve mental health, motivation, and overall performance, sports psychologists collaborate with athletes and sports teams. 

Read More: Psychology as a Career After 12th 

Roles and Responsibilities of a Counselling Psychologist 

  • Using methods including case history analysis, standardized testing, and interviews, comprehensive evaluations of clients' psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues are carried out. 
  • Individual counseling is meeting with clients one-on-one to provide support, direction, and interventions specific to each person's needs and objectives.
  • Group counseling is leading therapy sessions with clients to address shared issues, encouraging interpersonal development and peer support.
  • Working together with clients to create individualized plans that include timetables for progress, therapy objectives, and tactics.
  • Crisis intervention involves providing those experiencing severe psychological distress or crises—such as trauma or suicide thoughts—with prompt support and interventions.
  • Teaching patients and their family coping mechanisms, self-care techniques, and mental health concerns to improve resilience and well-being. 
  • Speaking out for patients' needs inside the healthcare system and directing them to other specialists or services, like community services, support groups, or psychiatrists, as needed. 
  • Upholding, in accordance with moral and legal requirements, accurate and private records of client evaluations, progress notes, and treatment plans. 
  • Working together to coordinate care and offer clients interdisciplinary support from mental health specialists like psychiatrists, social workers, or school counselors. 
  • Maintaining current knowledge of new findings, treatment approaches, and moral standards in the field through continuous instruction, supervision, and professional development activities. 

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How to Become a Counselling Psychologist in India? 

To give you a brief idea of your future possibilities, below is a list of psychology degrees you can pursue.

You'll also get a little closer to the answer to the question of whether psychology is a wise career choice for kids to pursue following their senior year of high school. 

Undergraduate Degrees  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology 
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology 
Postgraduate Degrees  Master of Arts (M.A.) in Psychology 
Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology 
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Counseling 
Master of Science (M.S.) in Counseling 
Certificate and Diploma Programs  Postgraduate Certificate in Psychology 
Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology 
Doctoral Degrees  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology 
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) 
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Counseling 
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in School Psychology 

 Career Prospects of a Career in Psychology 

  • A career in psychology offers a wide range of prospects across various fields due to the growing recognition of mental health importance and the increasing demand for psychological services. 
  • Psychologists can work in a variety of places, including private practices, schools, hospitals, and research facilities. 
  • Clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology are some of the specializations they can pursue.
  • There would be a growing need for psychologists, which will present prospects for fulfilling employment, high pay, and the ability to positively influence people and communities. 

Career Oppurtunities in Counselling Psychology 

  • Adolescent Psychologist 
  • Career Counselor 
  • Child Psychologist 
  • Counselor 
  • Educational Psychologist 
  • Psychologist 

Salary and Demand for Counselling Psychologist 

Demand  High 
Salary Level  High (For freshers average salary is more than 5 Lacs) 
Fees level  Medium (3 to 4 Lakhs.) 
Level of preparation for Counselling Psychology Medium (Students spend 1 Year to prepare for entrance test of Counselling Psychology.) 

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Top Colleges to Study Counselling Psychology 

For Graduation 

College Name  Location 
Lady Shri Ram College for Women - [LSR]  New Delhi 
Christ University  Bangalore 
Presidency College  Chennai 
Keshav Mahavidyalaya  New Delhi 
Ashoka University  Sonepat 
DAV College - [DAVC]  Chandigarh 
St. Xavier's College  Mumbai 
Fergusson College  Pune 
Indraprastha College for Women - [IP]  New Delhi 
Jamia Millia Islamia University - [JMI]  New Delhi 

For Post Graduation 

College Name  Location 
Lady Shri Ram College for Women - [LSR]  New Delhi 
Christ University  Bangalore 
Presidency College  Chennai 
DAV College - [DAVC]  Chandigarh 
Fergusson College  Pune 
Indraprastha College for Women - [IP]  New Delhi 
Banaras Hindu University - [BHU]  Varanasi 
Jamia Millia Islamia University - [JMI]  New Delhi 
Modern College of Arts Science and Commerce - [MCASC]  Shivajinagar, Pune 
Shri HK Arts College  Ahmedabad 

Is Psychology a good Career? 

  • Deciding whether psychology is a rewarding career path involves considering various factors, including personal interests, professional goals, and the evolving landscape of the field. 
  • Psychology offers a diverse range of opportunities for individuals passionate about understanding human behavior, promoting mental health, and making a positive impact on society. 
  • Whether working as a clinical psychologist providing therapy to individuals in need, conducting research to advance knowledge in the field, or advocating for mental health awareness and access to resources. 
  • Psychologists play a crucial role in supporting the well-being of individuals and communities. 
  • Moreover, psychology offers versatility in career paths. From clinical practice to academia, from organizational consulting to forensic analysis. 
  • This flexibility allows individuals to tailor their careers to align with their passions and strengths. 
  • Additionally, psychology is a field that continually evolves, presenting opportunities for lifelong learning and professional growth.
  • Advances in research, technology, and treatment modalities provide psychologists with the chance to stay at the forefront of innovation and contribute to the development of best practices in their respective areas of specialization. 
  • A career in psychology also comes with its challenges. It requires dedication, empathy, and resilience to navigate the complexities of human behavior and address the diverse needs of clients or research participants. 
  • Psychologists may also face obstacles such as limited resources, ethical dilemmas, and burnout, which necessitate self-care and ongoing support. 

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Read More: 15 Super Careers You Should go for after 12th 

Conclusion 

  • The field of counseling psychology is highly significant and honorable. 
  • Depending on each person's goals, principles, and level of dedication, psychology may or may not be a fulfilling career.
    To know your interests, check thisHow to Know Your Career Interests? 
  • Psychology may be a very rewarding and significant career choice for people who are enthusiastic about learning about the human mind, assisting others in overcoming obstacles, and advancing society. 
  • A graduate degree in clinical psychology, applied psychology, or counseling psychology is required to work in the field of counseling psychology.
  • It's a journey full of chances for development, education, and improving the lives of others around you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which skills are necessary for a successful psychology career?

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How can psychology support development on both a personal and professional level?

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Is there a need for counseling psychologists?

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What does counseling psychology's future hold?

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Is a career in psychology promising?

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Which is preferable, counseling psychology or clinical psychology?

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Can I stay with my therapist forever?

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