What is an Inpatient Psychologist?

A psychologist is an expert, or a specialist, in the field of psychology. Psychologists work in a variety of settings, from research positions to private counseling practices. When a person is hospitalized for mental illness, they will work with a team of practitioners to stabilize their psychological and physiological well-being. One member of that team is typically an inpatient psychologist. This career can be stressful, but the rewards greatly outweigh any strain. Think you have what it takes to become a caring, compassionate, certified inpatient psychologist? Read on to learn more about the job and how to meet your goals of becoming one!

What Is An Inpatient Psychologist?

When you hear the term inpatient psychologist, you may think of the person that talks about a person’s problems and prescribes medications. That is the job of an inpatient psychiatrist, a job that requires a medical degree. Inpatient psychologists do not need to have a medical degree to practice. They don’t prescribe medications. Psychologists are more interested in studying, analyzing and recording cognitive thoughts and behaviors. In an inpatient facility, psychologists:

  • Work with patients to get to the heart of their emotional problems through talk and play therapy
  • Administer tests, practicing as a psychoanalyst
  • Conduct group, family, and individual therapy sessions
  • Intervene in a patient’s crisis situation
  • Lead educational groups about emotional wellness and substance-abuse
  • Evaluate new patients coming in to the facility

Though this is only a short list of the duties an inpatient psychologist would oversee on any given day, it does show the amount of work these doctors have to complete on the front lines at an inpatient facility.

Inpatient Psychology Degrees

In order to become a psychologist, there is a fairly rigid educational path that must be followed. Students typically complete the following education requirements to become a certified, licensed psychologist.

  • Earn an undergrad degree in Psychology (B.A or B.S)
  • Attend a graduate program to earn a Master’s degree in a psychology concentration
  • Earn a PhD in a psychology concentration
  • Complete (a minimum of) two years as a clinical intern
  • Pass examinations/meet requirements for licensure in your individual state

It is important to note that though most positions require candidates to possess a PhD, there are some opportunities in the field for individuals possessing their Master’s.

Inpatient Psychology Job Outlook and Salary

In 2015, Psychologists in the United States earned a median annual salary of $72,580, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job opportunities as psychologists are expected to grow by 19% through 2024, a growth rate that is much faster than average. In fact, it is expected that through 2024 there will be an employment change of 32,500.

Related Resource: What is a Counseling Psychologist?

Act Now

If inpatient psychology sounds like the right field for you, get working towards that doctoral degree, today. Your first step is an associates or bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field from an accredited higher learning institution. There are many great opportunities for all learning styles on-campus and online in the field of inpatient psychology.