If you would like to work with basically normal people who are experiencing relatively brief developmental problems or problems with their jobs, marriages, or other life situations . . .

Identify Master's or doctoral programs in counseling psychology.

You will need a minimum of one year (usually two) of graduate training beyond the Bachelor's degree for a Master's, and at least three (usually more) for a doctorate. Your training will also involve an internship of at least one semester.

Obtain catalogs and other materials that will help you identify the undergraduate course work needed to make you an attractive candidate for selection by the graduate programs of your choice.

Make sure that your undergraduate program includes courses in research design and statistics, which will help you immeasurably with your doctoral dissertation. Also take courses in abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, learning, cognition, and personality. Consider an undergraduate field experience or internship course, if your institution offers one.

Discuss your plans with your faculty advisor.

Some states require professional licensure, which will require state or national certification before you can advertise your services as a psychologist.

Join the American Psychological Association, the American Psychological Society, and/or your regional psychological association as a student member. Attend a convention, if possible.

Get to know other psychology majors and the professors in your psychology department. Join the psychology club or psychology honorary society in your psychology department. Look for announcements of psychology activities to which students are invited. Attend as many as you can.

See clinical psychology

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