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Video Transcript

Listening to the feelings, experiences, fears, and hopes of other people is part of daily life-on- the-job for psychologists. As they work with their clients, psychologists study each person’s thought patterns, emotions, and interactions to help them improve their quality of life. Psychologists gather information through assessments, surveys, interviews and reviews of scientific studies. They look for ways to help individuals understand themselves, their behaviors, and relationships. Some psychologists conduct research and write articles, research papers, and reports to share findings and educate others. Many psychologists share the qualities of being trustworthy, observant, compassionate, and analytical. There are many different types of psychologists, including social, school, counseling, and industrial-organizational. While most work individually with clients, some collaborate with doctors and social workers. Psychologists work in colleges and schools, for government agencies, in clinics, private agencies, and hospitals. Work hours may include evenings and weekends to accommodate client schedules, and round-the-clock facilities such as hospitals or urgent care settings. Nearly one-third of psychologists are self-employed. A doctoral degree or master’s degree in psychology is required to enter the field, along with a professional license for most positions. Helping people make sense of life’s most difficult experiences and emotions gives meaning to the work of psychologists.