“What can I do with a psychology degree in the medical field?” Whether you’re just starting to consider psychology studies or already have several psych classes under your belt, it’s worth exploring how psychology studies can help you launch a rewarding healthcare career.
There are plenty of psychology jobs in hospitals and other healthcare settings as long as you know where to look.
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This guide to psychology careers in the medical field can help you discover the range of opportunities.
What Can You Do with a Psychology Degree in the Medical Field?
Psychology is a field of study that shares many ties to the medical field. After earning a psych degree, there are a variety of healthcare-related career options you could pursue.
In fact, you could even consider a degree specialization in health psychology. If so, you might be well-suited for a job in health education or healthcare management. Perhaps you’d also be ready to start working as a hospital social worker—or apply for a social work graduate program.
A psychology degree could also be worthwhile preparation for working as a psychiatric technician. The Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests supplementing your degree with a few certificate courses that focus on the specifics of this line of work.
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Other jobs for those with a bachelor’s degree in psychology could include working as a medical records specialist or, in some states, a substance abuse counselor. Many people find that getting a psychology degree offers good preparation for additional studies. For instance, you could apply for medical school if you’re interested in becoming a physician.
You could also pursue a master’s degree or a doctorate in psychology, occupational therapy, rehabilitation counseling, marriage therapy, or a related field. Then, you might qualify to work as a researcher, counselor, or clinical psychologist for a healthcare organization.
Integrating Psychology in Various Medical Fields
Psychology is practically applicable in various medical fields, and it can lead to a more comprehensive approach to healthcare.
In general, psychologists can collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals to address the mental and emotional well-being of patients alongside their physical health. The American Psychological Association (APA) highlights the significance of psychologists in identifying and treating mental health conditions.
The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) has published studies emphasizing the importance of early psychological intervention in pediatric settings. Some psychologists focus on helping children overcome developmental and behavioral challenges.
In the realm of neurology, your grasp of cognitive processes could offer insights into various neurological disorders. The APA supports the integration of psychological principles in understanding and managing these complex conditions. The APA also notes that psychologists are instrumental in managing pain, often using cognitive and behavioral strategies to alleviate suffering.
In rehabilitation, this expertise helps patients navigate the psychological impacts of injury or illness, an aspect underscored by numerous NCBI publications.
10 Things You Can Do with a Psychology Degree in the Healthcare Field
Here are 10 potential career paths for psychology majors in the medical field. These roles highlight the versatility of psychology in the medical field, each offering unique opportunities to apply psychological knowledge in healthcare settings.
1. Mental Health Technician
A mental health technician supports individuals with mental health issues, monitoring their wellbeing, assisting in therapeutic activities, and facilitating daily routines in clinical environments.
These professionals work under the guidance of mental health professionals, and their role is vital in ensuring effective and compassionate patient care.
2. Rehab Specialist
A rehab specialist may develop and implement rehabilitation programs for individuals with mental illnesses or disabilities.
They focus on enhancing daily living skills, promoting independence, and improving the overall quality of life for their patients.
3. Psychiatric Technician
As a psychiatric technician, you could work closely with psychiatric patients.
You might assist in their daily care, facilitate therapeutic activities, and monitor their progress in mental health facilities, playing a crucial role in the treatment process.
4. Case Manager
A case manager with a psychology degree may coordinate patient care in medical settings. They might oversee treatment plans, manage records, and act as a liaison between patients and healthcare providers.
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This role ensures efficient and personalized care, addressing both medical and psychological needs of patients.
5. Addictions Psychologist
An addictions psychologist specializes in treating individuals struggling with substance abuse and behavioral addictions.
They can develop comprehensive treatment plans, conduct therapy sessions, and provide ongoing support to help patients overcome addiction and maintain long-term recovery. Licensed psychologists hold a doctorate in the field.
6. Mental Health Counselor
A mental health counselor provides therapeutic support to individuals facing various mental health challenges.
They may conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and facilitate individual or group therapy sessions to promote mental and emotional well-being.
7. Pain Psychologist
With a psychology doctorate, you might consider a role as a pain psychologist, helping patients manage chronic pain.
This profession employs psychological techniques to alleviate pain-related distress, improve coping strategies, and enhance the overall quality of life for those suffering from long-term pain conditions.
8. Health Educator
A health educator with a psychology background could design and implement educational programs on health and wellness.
They focus on promoting healthy behaviors, raising awareness about mental and physical health issues, and providing resources and support to various communities or institutions.
9. Crisis Intervention Counselor
A crisis intervention counselor provides immediate support and counseling to individuals experiencing acute psychological distress.
They may assess crisis situations, offer emotional support, and develop strategies to navigate and resolve crises, often in emergency or high-stress environments.
10. Behavioral Health Consultant
A behavioral health consultant advises healthcare organizations on integrating psychological practices into patient care.
They can assess patient needs, develop mental health programs, and collaborate with healthcare teams to enhance treatment outcomes and overall patient well-being.
Psychology Careers and Salaries in Healthcare
If you’re interested in psychology and want to make a difference in the medical field, then there are a variety of jobs you could consider.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare practitioners earn a median annual salary of $77,760, and healthcare technicians make a median of $33,600 per year.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Psychiatrists | $226,880 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $104,830 |
| Occupational Therapists | $93,180 |
| Psychologists | $85,330 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | $60,280 |
| Marriage and Family Therapists | $56,570 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | $49,710 |
| Medical Records Specialists | $47,180 |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | $39,990 |
| Psychiatric Technicians and Aides | $37,330 |
Some healthcare jobs may be available to you right out of your undergraduate program in psychology. There are many others that could be available after you earn a graduate degree or complete medical school, but a psychology program can serve as good preparation.
Psychology Educational Path and Certifications
Licensing requirements vary by state, but here are some common steps toward becoming a licensed psychologist:
- Earn a doctoral degree. You’re typically required to earn a PhD in Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD).
- Complete clinical training. You’ll complete a specified number of clinical hours under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. This step is where theory meets practice.
- Pass the exam. Passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a crucial step toward becoming licensed.
- Maintain your license. The world of psychology is always evolving, and keeping up through continuing education is crucial.
You can also consider specializing with a certification, be it in clinical, counseling, or child psychology. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), health psychologists play a vital role in clinical settings, where they conduct clinical assessments of patients.
How Much Money Can You Make with a Psychology Degree?
The salary for healthcare jobs with a bachelors in psychology can vary depending on the position. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that the median salary for psychiatric technicians is $37,380, and medical records specialists have a median salary of $47,180.
For those who decide to pursue advanced education and become psychologists, the annual salary typically ranges between $48,010 and $141,910. The median salary for healthcare social workers can pay $60,280 per year, and the median wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors is $49,710.
Your psychology degree could also prepare you for occupational therapy school. OTs tend to earn between $63,320 and $123,870.
What Skills Do You Learn in Psychology?
Your college studies can help equip you with several useful skills for psychology careers in healthcare.
In classes on lifespan development and cognitive psychology, you will learn about working with people. As a result, you may be ready to help patients and their families. You might become particularly good at communicating information or encouraging healthy behavior.
Psychology students also learn to work with data and run experiments. Whether you want to work in a lab or another healthcare setting, that attention to detail and knowledge of clinical procedures could be useful. Plus, you’ll practice critical thinking, which can help with making healthcare decisions.
Is Psychology a Medical Field?
Technically, psychology is not a medical field, but there is some overlap. Psychologists often work alongside other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients.
Psychologists are not medical doctors, though. Physicians, including psychiatrists, go to medical school and complete residencies. In comparison, practicing psychologists study clinical practice and psychological theories as they earn doctoral degrees and complete one-year internships.
The American Psychological Association (APA) is advocating for psychology to be more fully regarded as a health discipline. The organization points out that mental health is critical for overall health, so it shouldn’t be thought of as a separate discipline.
Is Psychology a Good Major for Med School?
Yes, psychology is a good major for med school for many undergraduate students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the median annual salary for physicians and surgeons is $229,300.
A psychology major could help prepare you for working with patients and their families. You might become a better communicator with skills for encouraging healthy choices or providing support during stressful medical situations.
Choosing a pre med psychology path could help ensure that you complete the prerequisite coursework required for medical school. You might consider a psychology curriculum with multiple lab science courses and a class in biostatistics.
Is a Degree in Psychology Worth It?
Yes, a degree in psychology is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that there will be a 6% increase in positions for psychologists over the next decade, which is faster than average. In particular, an 11% growth rate is projected for clinical and counseling psychologists.
You may find that a background in psychology could be especially worthwhile if you want to work in the medical field. Healthcare is a booming sector, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects healthcare jobs to grow faster than the national average across all sectors.
Getting Your Psychology Degree Online
If you want to work with people and make a difference in the medical field, then you might consider earning a bachelors in psychology.
You can consider a number of healthcare jobs with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, as many roles can benefit from a psychology perspective and skill set. Plus, you may be well prepared for graduate or professional programs in psychology, medicine, occupational therapy, social work, or other areas related to healthcare.
To get started, you can take a look at online bachelor’s degree programs in psychology from accredited schools. You may appreciate the quality psychology education you can earn on your own schedule and from the comfort of your own home.
