<ul><li>One of the major attractions of becoming a psychologist is the opportunity to help others. </li></ul><p><strong>If you enjoy working with people, a career in psychology is a great choice. While the job can be stressful at times, many psychologists describe their jobs as very gratifying and fulfilling</strong>.</p>

1. Find Reward In Helping Others

<ul><li>One big advantage of <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-become-a-psychologist-2794942">becoming a psychologist </a>is that you can have a rewarding career and still have plenty of time to spend with your friends and family.</li></ul><p><strong>Psychologists who work in hospitals or mental health offices may not have work schedules that are as flexible as their self-employed counterparts, but there are still plenty of opportunities to set hours that work with your life and family demands.</strong></p>

2. Have A Flexible Work Schedule

<p><strong>Some individuals opt to work part-time, still earning a respectable income while leaving time to care for children and fulfill other personal obligations.</strong></p><ul><li>It is important to note that these salaries reflect professionals who hold advanced degrees in their fields.</li><li> Those who have earned an undergraduate degree in psychology cannot refer to themselves as psychologists, as it is a legally protected title. </li><li>Those with <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-bachelors-degree-in-psychology-2794943">bachelor's level degrees </a>also face lower salaries and fewer job options than those with more training.</li></ul>

3. Earn A Potentially High Salary 

<p>If you enjoy working for yourself and have an entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a psychologist can be an excellent career choice. <strong>Establishing your own private therapy practice gives you the opportunity to have full control over your career.</strong></p><ul><li>Psychologists working in specialized fields such as <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/industrial-organizational-psychology-careers-2795653">industrial-organizational psychology </a>, educational psychology, and <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/forensic-psychology-careers-2795639">forensic psychology </a>may also find opportunities for self-employment as private consultants.</li></ul>

4. Run Your Own Business

<p><strong>The field of psychology is both diverse and challenging, so no matter which field you choose to pursue, you probably won't find yourself bored very often. </strong></p><ul><li>Clinical psychologists face constant challenges from clients who need their help in solving problems.</li><li>Other specialty areas such as sports psychology and forensic psychology face their own unique demands and obstacles. Being a psychologist might be stressful at times, but the profession presents intellectual challenges that keep the job interesting.</li></ul>

5. Find Plenty Of New Challenges

<p><strong>If you enjoy working with people and helping them achieve their full potential, then becoming a psychologist can be extremely rewarding.</strong></p><ul><li>Whether you are <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/child-psychologist-2795637">working exclusively with children </a>, adults, married couples or families, you will have the opportunity to meet and help people from all walks of life.</li></ul>

6. Meet A Wide Variety Of People

<h1>
How Being a Psychologist Can Benefit You
</h1><div dir="ltr">
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<span dir="ltr">By</span>
<div data-tooltip="<p>Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author and educational consultant focused on helping students learn about psychology.</p>" data-inline-tooltip="true" data-tooltip-position-x="left" data-tooltip-position-y="top" dir="ltr">
<a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/kendra-cherry-2794702" dir="ltr">Kendra Cherry</a>

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<div dir="ltr">Updated on November 15, 2020</div>
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<span data-tooltip="Verywell Mind content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. <a class=&quot;review-descriptor-tooltip__learn-more&quot; href=&quot;/our-editorial-process-4778006&quot;>Learn more</a>." data-inline-tooltip="true" data-tooltip-position-x="left" data-tooltip-position-y="top" dir="ltr">
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<a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/emily-swaim-4798013" dir="ltr">Emily Swaim</a>

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What are some of the key benefits of being a psychologist? It's a question that any student aspiring toward the career should ask themselves. Before you decide on this career, it is important to ask yourself whether or not you will enjoy a career as a psychologist.
</p><p>
There are many benefits to being a psychologist. In addition to working in a field that you love, you will have the opportunity to explore new challenges, help people grow as individuals, and learn new things about yourself.
</p><div dir="ltr">
<span dir="ltr">1</span>
</div><h2><span> Find Rewards in Helping Others </span></h2><figure><img alt="Young woman in therapy" width="2161" height="1389" srcset="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/GRTKSExM4wtsMuAgpZ9DnP7-ou8=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/112504460-56a792563df78cf772973ea5.jpg 300w, https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/KrU-TMUl4DzN7kbiSza-qmgS5Aw=/378x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/112504460-56a792563df78cf772973ea5.jpg 378w, https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/v3AD-QV7y7U6PEZgzHzI_Ixi58Q=/456x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/112504460-56a792563df78cf772973ea5.jpg 456w, https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/fcM3uzhwJhOS3nuxqzIyT9Lktm8=/614x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/112504460-56a792563df78cf772973ea5.jpg 614w" src="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/lKuVdcMBwQYsWkeR99h-pMrIaRg=/2161x1389/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/112504460-56a792563df78cf772973ea5.jpg"><figcaption dir="auto">Peter Dazeley/Photographer's Choice/Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p dir="ltr">
One of the major attractions of becoming a psychologist is the opportunity to help others. If you enjoy working with people, a career in psychology is a great choice. While the job can be stressful at times, many psychologists describe their jobs as very gratifying and fulfilling.<span data-id="#citation-2" dir="ltr">1</span>
</p><div dir="ltr">
<span dir="ltr">2</span>
</div><h2><span> Have a Flexible Work Schedule </span></h2><figure><img alt="Work schedule" width="3867" height="2578" src="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/-KaVcBhi12LBxLH47GhcdKqACEw=/3867x2578/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-170402047-56b74ff33df78c0b135f8aab.jpg"><figcaption dir="auto">Albert Mollon / Moment / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p dir="ltr">
According to the <em dir="ltr">Occupational Outlook Handbook</em> published by the U.S. Department of Labor, 29% of psychologists are self-employed with a median pay of around $79,000 per year.<span data-id="#citation-3" dir="ltr">2</span> If you operate your own therapy practice, you can basically set your own hours.
</p><p dir="ltr">One big advantage of <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-become-a-psychologist-2794942" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="internalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">becoming a psychologist</a> is that you can have a rewarding career and still have plenty of time to spend with your friends and family.</p><p>
Psychologists who work in hospitals or mental health offices may not have work schedules that are as flexible as their self-employed counterparts, but there are still plenty of opportunities to set hours that work with your life and family demands.
</p><div dir="ltr">
<span dir="ltr">3</span>
</div><h2><span> Earn a Potentially High Salary </span></h2><figure><img alt="Stacking money" width="3870" height="2576" src="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/469OYIm8wtVrQiEif5IAV2w03c4=/3870x2576/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-503847901-56a8e1f43df78cf772a197ec.jpg"><figcaption dir="auto">JGI/Jamie Grill / Blend Images / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p dir="ltr">
While money isn't the only reason to choose a certain career, psychologists are generally well-compensated for their time and effort. On average, <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/psychologist-salaries-2794925" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="internalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">psychologists earn</a> anywhere from $43,800 to $129,250 annually.<span data-id="#citation-3" dir="ltr">2</span>﻿
</p><p>Some individuals opt to work part-time, still earning a respectable income while leaving time to care for children and fulfill other personal obligations.</p><p dir="ltr">
It is important to note that these salaries reflect professionals who hold advanced degrees in their fields. Those who have earned an undergraduate degree in psychology cannot refer to themselves as psychologists, as it is a legally protected title.<span data-id="#citation-3" dir="ltr">2</span>﻿ Those with <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-bachelors-degree-in-psychology-2794943" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="internalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">bachelor's level degrees</a> also face lower salaries and fewer job options than those with more training.
</p><div dir="ltr">
<span dir="ltr">4</span>
</div><h2><span> Run Your Own Business </span></h2><figure><img alt="typing APA references with multiple authors" width="5000" height="3333" src="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/eoAPit3tBjzJD7howGoThF0xyZY=/5000x3333/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-540202887-56b4bc4e3df78c0b1353da6b.jpg"><figcaption dir="auto">Eternity in an Instant/The Image Bank/Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p>
If you enjoy working for yourself and have an entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a psychologist can be an excellent career choice. Establishing your own private therapy practice gives you the opportunity to have full control over your career.
</p><p dir="ltr">According to the U.S. Department of Labor, an estimated 29% of all psychologists are self-employed.<span data-id="#citation-3" dir="ltr">2</span>﻿</p><p dir="ltr">
Psychologists working in specialized fields such as <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/industrial-organizational-psychology-careers-2795653" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="internalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">industrial-organizational psychology</a>, educational psychology, and <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/forensic-psychology-careers-2795639" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="internalLink" data-ordinal="2" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">forensic psychology</a> may also find opportunities for self-employment as private consultants.<span data-id="#citation-2" dir="ltr">1</span>﻿
</p><div dir="ltr">
<span dir="ltr">5</span>
</div><h2><span> Find Plenty of New Challenges </span></h2><figure><img alt="Psychologist" width="5616" height="3744" src="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/STYHbJ_fGIuDLneKHZM09wTIwGY=/5616x3744/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-538891889-56b4ac555f9b5829f82c8386.jpg"><figcaption dir="auto">Willie B. Thomas/Taxi/Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p>
The field of psychology is both diverse and challenging, so no matter which field you choose to pursue, you probably won't find yourself bored very often. Clinical psychologists face constant challenges from clients who need their help in solving problems.
</p><p dir="ltr">
Other specialty areas such as sports psychology and forensic psychology face their own unique demands and obstacles. Being a psychologist might be stressful at times, but the profession presents intellectual challenges that keep the job interesting.<span data-id="#citation-2" dir="ltr">1</span>﻿
</p><div dir="ltr">
<span dir="ltr">6</span>
</div><h2><span> Meet a Wide Variety of People </span></h2><figure><img alt="Therapist leading a group therapy session" width="4367" height="2285" src="https://www.verywellmind.com/thmb/iZdbutGWwKOGz-JreKsmO9Iq2_I=/4367x2285/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/GettyImages-554392663-568a85363df78ccc153bb0dd.jpg"><figcaption dir="auto">Tom Merton / Caiaimage / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p>
If you enjoy working with people and helping them achieve their full potential, then becoming a psychologist can be extremely rewarding.
</p><p>While you will often face challenges, seeing your clients make real progress and work towards their goals can give you a feeling of accomplishment.</p><p dir="ltr">
Whether you are <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/child-psychologist-2795637" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="internalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">working exclusively with children</a>, adults, married couples or families, you will have the opportunity to meet and help people from all walks of life.
</p><div>Was this page helpful?</div><div data-click-tracked="true"><span>
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Learn more about some of the six great reasons you might want to choose a career as a psychologist.

<p>What are some of the key benefits of being a psychologist? It's a question that any student aspiring toward the career should ask themselves. Before you decide on this career, it is important to ask yourself whether or not you will enjoy a career as a psychologist. </p>

<p>There are many benefits to being a psychologist. In addition to working in a field that you love, you will have the opportunity to explore new challenges, help people grow as individuals, and learn new things about yourself. </p>

<p>One of the major attractions of becoming a psychologist is the opportunity to help others. If you enjoy working with people, a career in psychology is a great choice. While the job can be stressful at times, many psychologists describe their jobs as very gratifying and fulfilling.<span>1 </span> </p>

<p>According to the <em>Occupational Outlook Handbook </em>published by the U.S. Department of Labor, 29% of psychologists are self-employed with a median pay of around $79,000 per year.<span>2 </span>If you operate your own therapy practice, you can basically set your own hours. </p>

<p>One big advantage of <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-become-a-psychologist-2794942">becoming a psychologist </a>is that you can have a rewarding career and still have plenty of time to spend with your friends and family. </p>

<p>Psychologists who work in hospitals or mental health offices may not have work schedules that are as flexible as their self-employed counterparts, but there are still plenty of opportunities to set hours that work with your life and family demands. </p>

<p>While money isn't the only reason to choose a certain career, psychologists are generally well-compensated for their time and effort. On average, <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/psychologist-salaries-2794925">psychologists earn </a>anywhere from $43,800 to $129,250 annually.<span>2 </span>﻿ </p>

<p>Some individuals opt to work part-time, still earning a respectable income while leaving time to care for children and fulfill other personal obligations. </p>

<p>It is important to note that these salaries reflect professionals who hold advanced degrees in their fields. Those who have earned an undergraduate degree in psychology cannot refer to themselves as psychologists, as it is a legally protected title.<span>2 </span>﻿ Those with <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/what-can-you-do-with-a-bachelors-degree-in-psychology-2794943">bachelor's level degrees </a>also face lower salaries and fewer job options than those with more training. </p>

<p>If you enjoy working for yourself and have an entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a psychologist can be an excellent career choice. Establishing your own private therapy practice gives you the opportunity to have full control over your career. </p>

<p>According to the U.S. Department of Labor, an estimated 29% of all psychologists are self-employed.<span>2 </span>﻿ </p>

<p>Psychologists working in specialized fields such as <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/industrial-organizational-psychology-careers-2795653">industrial-organizational psychology </a>, educational psychology, and <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/forensic-psychology-careers-2795639">forensic psychology </a>may also find opportunities for self-employment as private consultants.<span>1 </span>﻿ </p>

<p>The field of psychology is both diverse and challenging, so no matter which field you choose to pursue, you probably won't find yourself bored very often. Clinical psychologists face constant challenges from clients who need their help in solving problems. </p>

<p>Other specialty areas such as sports psychology and forensic psychology face their own unique demands and obstacles. Being a psychologist might be stressful at times, but the profession presents intellectual challenges that keep the job interesting.<span>1 </span>﻿ </p>

<p>If you enjoy working with people and helping them achieve their full potential, then becoming a psychologist can be extremely rewarding. </p>

<p>While you will often face challenges, seeing your clients make real progress and work towards their goals can give you a feeling of accomplishment. </p>

<p>Whether you are <a href="https://www.verywellmind.com/child-psychologist-2795637">working exclusively with children </a>, adults, married couples or families, you will have the opportunity to meet and help people from all walks of life. </p>

Bite-sized knowledge
to upgrade
your career

The 6 Benefits of Being a Psychologist

1. Find Reward In Helping Others

2. Have A Flexible Work Schedule

3. Earn A Potentially High Salary

4. Run Your Own Business

5. Find Plenty Of New Challenges

6. Meet A Wide Variety Of People

IDEAS ABOUT

MORE LIKE THIS

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What Is Behind the Psychology of Positive Thinking?

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It's time to

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LIKE

A PRO!

Bite-sized knowledgeto upgradeyour career

The 6 Benefits of Being a Psychologist

1. Find Reward In Helping Others

2. Have A Flexible Work Schedule

3. Earn A Potentially High Salary

4. Run Your Own Business

5. Find Plenty Of New Challenges

6. Meet A Wide Variety Of People

IDEAS ABOUT

MORE LIKE THIS

Community Psychology Explains How Individuals Relate to Society

What Is Behind the Psychology of Positive Thinking?

6 Psychological Strategies for Success in Life

It's time to

READ

LIKE

A PRO!

Bite-sized knowledge
to upgrade
your career