Psychologist Working Conditions

Psychologists held about 173,900 jobs in 2014. The industries that employed the most psychologists were as follows:

Some psychologists work alone, which may include independent research or individually counseling patients. Others work as part of a healthcare team, collaborating with physicians, social workers, and others to treat illness and promote overall wellness.

Physical working conditions vary widely for psychologists. Many clinical and counseling psychologists in private practice have their own offices and can set their own schedules. Other typical workplaces include clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, and community and mental health centers. Research psychologists typically work in colleges and universities, government agencies, or private research organizations. Most school psychologists work in public schools, ranging in level from nursery school through college. They also work in private schools, universities, hospitals and clinics, community treatment centers, and independent practice.

Psychologists in private practice can often set their own hours, and many work part time as independent consultants. However, they often offer evening or weekend hours to accommodate clients. Those employed in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities also may have evening or weekend shifts. Most psychologists working in clinics, government, industry, or schools work full-time schedules during regular business hours.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition

Find additional occupational information below:

Psychologist Duties
Psychologist Work Conditions
Psychologist Employment
Psychologist Training
Psychologist Job Outlook
Psychologist Earnings