Academic psychologists, also known as school counselors, work in elementary, middle, and high schools to support students’ psychological needs related to academic challenges, learning styles, peer social interactions, family environments, and possible learning disabilities. Academic psychologists are school counselors who have received training and education in psychology and counseling, as opposed to counselors who have a social work background. Academic psychologists use both formal and informal treatment plans to coordinate the actions and goals of students, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders. They are frequently in charge of creating and coordinating school-wide educational programs, such as those dealing with bullying or sexual abuse, as well as counseling individual students who are dealing with family problems or developmental changes. These counselors are also in charge of coordinating the development of individualized educational plans (IEPs) for students with learning disabilities or behavioral issues in some school systems.
Teachers who suspect a learning disability, principals who recognize chronic behavioral issues, and parents seeking answers to their children’s poor performance or dislike of school frequently seek the help of an academic psychologist. The academic psychologist then determines the actions necessary to identify the problem after meeting with the child, depending on the school system policy. Outside referrals to physicians in the area, such as child psychiatrists, ophthalmologists, ENT specialists, or pediatric neurologists, may be made to determine possible organic causes for the child’s reported difficulties. Other evaluations are usually done within the school or school system, and may include learning disability diagnostic screenings or academic exams to assess a child’s current grade level performance. A child’s IEP will be developed by an academic psychologist, who will also organize group meetings with the student, teachers, parents, and other staff to confirm the plan’s effectiveness.
An academic psychologist may also be in charge of system-wide or school-wide programs on significant social issues. An academic psychologist may develop or implement established education and awareness programs on issues such as bullying, sexual abuse, racism, or sexism based on current issues of concern and administrative direction. The level of the school — elementary, middle, or high school — and the demographics of the school determine the details and methods of communicating the message. Collaborating with the teaching staff on these school-wide programs can help to reinforce the message of the program.