What does a school psychologist do?

Many schools have an on site psychologist working within the premises. This may provide benefits for both students and staff, however, some will no doubt have certain objections to the presence of a psychologist. Some students may also react negatively to being asked to attend a psychologist’s session. On the other hand, there may be those who profit greatly from regular or irregular interaction with a psychologist, particularly if that student has a negative viewpoint with regard to schooling.

Role

Psychologists can be of significant help to students with regard to issues they may feel unable to talk about with their parents or guardians. It is often easier for students to talk about certain issues with those with whom they are not personally acquainted. For instance, problems with sexuality and other such private problems may be easier to discuss with a psychologist.Assessment

A large part of the psychologist’s role involves the assessment and evaluation of students, both concerning personality and schoolwork. Psychologists may examine a student’s emotional quotient, or they may seek to bring any learning abilities or disabilities to the attention of parents and teachers, should these attributes become evident. Also examined may be social behavior, comprehension, concentration levels and logical and communication abilities.

Assistance

The psychologist, upon assessment of a student, will analyze the observations and data that he or she has made and collected. Efforts will be made to understand the cause of any problems that may arise and if necessary, the psychologist may look to assist the student in overcoming these obstacles. A decision will be made on the approach to take; if a psychological problem arises, the psychologist may address it personally, while any cognitive difficulties will be referred to a specialized professional.InterventionIntervention may be necessary should a student’s academic performance be unduly affected. The psychologist will look to find out the reason for any sudden change in academic performance and will try to determine an appropriate solution. There may be reasons that are associated with a student’s home life, such as domestic abuse, divorce and other such home-affecting problems. If this is the case, the psychologist will try to find a solution to these problems.

A psychologist is also useful for counseling purposes. This is a broad term that encompasses a wide variety of tasks. They may be required to provide simple academic advice, career guidance depending on the individual request of the student. Mostly, counseling will involve problem-solving on the part of the psychologist, however in certain cases, a psychologist may be approached with a more complex request. For example, a student may require counseling for emotional trauma as a result of the loss of a loved one or other such serious issues. The psychologist will attempt to provide positive advice and assistance with regard to the maintenance of a positive approach to life, as well as advice on handling certain stressful situations.