School psychologists are essential members of the educational team, supporting students’ mental health, learning, and behavior. But what does a school psychologist do exactly? In this guide, we’ll explore their responsibilities, how they differ from other school professionals, and why their role is critical to student success. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or aspiring psychologist, this guide breaks it all down in simple terms.

What Is a School Psychologist?

A school psychologist is a highly trained mental health professional who plays a vital role in helping students grow, not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and behaviorally as well. Unlike psychologists who work in private practice or clinical settings, school psychologists are embedded within school communities. They understand the unique challenges that arise in educational environments and apply their knowledge of psychology and child development to help students thrive.

Their work combines psychological expertise with a deep understanding of how children learn. They partner with teachers, families, and school staff to create safe, supportive learning spaces where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.

Mental Health in the School Setting

Mental health is just as important as academics when it comes to a child’s ability to succeed in school. School psychologists recognize the early signs of emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or social withdrawal, that can affect concentration, behavior, and learning.

These professionals step in early with thoughtful, compassionate support to help students manage these challenges. Whether that means offering one-on-one counseling, recommending classroom strategies, or connecting families with outside services, school psychologists are often the first line of defense for student mental wellness.

Bridging Academics and Emotional Support

School psychologists should be the bridge between the academic side of school and the emotional well-being of students. They understand that a student who is struggling emotionally can’t fully engage in learning and they work to ensure no child is left behind because of unmet mental health needs.

They might help a child who’s acting out because of trauma, work with a teacher to support a student with ADHD, or design a plan to help a student ease back into school after a loss. Through it all, they bring a calm, steady presence that helps build trust and connection in the school community.

Key Responsibilities of a School Psychologist

Assessment and Evaluation

School psychologists conduct academic and emotional assessments to identify students’ strengths and challenges. These evaluations help diagnose learning disabilities, ADHD, emotional disorders, or giftedness. They also guide decision-making for special education eligibility.

Types of Assessments

• Cognitive testing for intellectual functioning
• Achievement testing to evaluate academic skills
• Behavioral assessments to understand patterns and triggers
• Social-emotional screeners to evaluate mental health

Counseling and Intervention

School psychologists also provide short-term counseling services to students dealing with anxiety, trauma, grief, or social skills deficits. Their interventions often include individual therapy, group sessions, and classroom-based strategies.

Common Counseling Topics

• Coping strategies
• Conflict resolution
• Bullying prevention
• Self-esteem and resilience building

Crisis Response and Prevention

Additionally, school psychologists play a key role in trauma-informed care in schools. They help prevent and respond to crises like natural disasters, school violence, or student deaths. Their work ensures that students and staff receive mental health support during critical times.

Crisis-Related Duties

• Conducting risk assessments for suicide or violence
• Leading post-crisis recovery planning
• Supporting staff and families during traumatic events

Collaboration and Consultation

In addition to direct services, school psychologists work closely with teachers, administrators, and families. They consult on classroom management strategies, behavioral supports, and academic interventions.

Supporting Special Education and IEPs

School psychologists are integral to special education services. As members of the IEP team, they evaluate students and provide expert insight on services and supports. Their assessments help ensure IEPs are data-driven and effective.

Role on the IEP Team

• Conduct eligibility assessments
• Present findings at IEP meetings
• Recommend accommodations and services
• Monitor progress over time

Creating Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs)

When a student consistently struggles with challenging behaviors that interfere with learning, either their own or that of others, a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) can be an essential support tool. School psychologists often take the lead in developing these individualized plans, especially for students receiving special education services.

A BIP is a proactive, research-based strategy designed to understand the root cause of a student’s behavior. It usually begins with a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), which identifies the triggers, patterns, and outcomes of the behavior in question. From there, the school psychologist works with teachers, families, and support staff to develop a plan that addresses those specific needs.

These plans include:

• Behavior goals that are specific, measurable, and achievable
• Environmental modifications such as seating changes, visual supports, or routine adjustments to reduce behavioral triggers
• Reinforcement strategies that encourage positive behaviors through praise, incentives, or consistent support
• Data collection methods to monitor progress, evaluate effectiveness, and guide ongoing adjustments

The goal of a BIP is to give students the tools they need to navigate their environment successfully. It’s a supportive process that promotes self-awareness, improves behavior over time, and helps build a more positive school experience for the student and their peers.

Supporting 504 Plans

Not every student with a disability qualifies for special education under IDEA, but many still need supports to succeed in the general education classroom. That’s where Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act comes in. A 504 plan ensures students with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit a major life activity, like learning, concentrating, or communicating—, eceive the accommodations they need to access education on an equal footing with their peers.

School psychologists play a valuable role in this process. While they may not always lead 504 teams, they often contribute by identifying student needs, recommending appropriate accommodations, and helping monitor the plan’s effectiveness over time.

How School Psychologists Support 504 Plans:

• Conducting assessments to determine whether a student’s disability substantially limits learning or other major life activities.
• Collaborating with teachers to suggest accommodations like extended time on tests, preferential seating, or visual aids.
• Participating in 504 meetings to provide insight on student behavior, academic performance, or social-emotional challenges.
• Training staff on how to implement accommodations consistently across settings.
• Monitoring student progress and making data-informed recommendations for adjustments.

504 plans help ensure equity in the classroom, but they only work when schools understand each student’s unique needs. School psychologists bring both expertise and compassion to this process, helping teams craft thoughtful plans that remove barriers and allow students to participate fully in their education.

 

How School Psychologists Help Students Thrive

School psychologists are proactive, not just reactive. Their work is grounded in prevention, early identification, and data-driven interventions.

Promoting Positive Behavior

Through programs like PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), school psychologists help foster respectful, safe, and inclusive school environments. They assist schools in implementing systems that reward good behavior and reduce disciplinary actions.

Supporting Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

MTSS is a framework that offers varying levels of support depending on a student’s needs. School psychologists help schools:

• Screen students for academic and behavioral concerns
• Analyze data to guide interventions
• Monitor response to interventions

Advocating for Equity and Inclusion

School psychologists also ensure that interventions are culturally responsive. They advocate for fair discipline practices, unbiased assessment, and services that respect students’ diverse backgrounds.

School Psychologist vs School Counselor

At first glance, the roles of school psychologists and school counselors may seem similar. They both work in schools, support students’ emotional needs, and help address challenges that impact learning. However, their training, day-to-day responsibilities, and areas of focus are distinct. Understanding these differences is important for families, educators, and school leaders working to connect students with the right kind of support.

School counselors tend to focus more on the academic and social development of students. They guide course selection, assist with college and career planning, and provide short-term counseling for everyday issues like peer conflict or stress. School psychologists, on the other hand, are more deeply involved in mental health assessment, special education evaluations, behavioral interventions, and systems-level support.

Both roles are essential. And when counselors and psychologists collaborate, they create a more comprehensive safety net that supports students from multiple angles: emotionally, academically, and behaviorally.

 

Role	School Psychologist	School Counselor
Focus	Learning, behavior, mental health	Academic guidance, college/career planning
Services	Assessments, evaluations, counseling, crisis response	Scheduling, college apps, social skills groups
Training	Ed.S. or Ph.D. in School Psychology	Master’s in School Counseling

 

When to Refer to Each Professional

• Refer to a school psychologist for evaluations, behavior plans, or emotional concerns
• Refer to a school counselor for academic planning, social issues, or short-term guidance

Education, Training, and Certification

Becoming a school psychologist requires extensive education and hands-on experience. These professionals are trained not only in psychology but also in education, child development, and systems-level intervention. Their expertise comes from years of focused study, practical application, and a deep understanding of how children learn and grow.

Most school psychologists hold either an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree or a Doctorate (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in School Psychology. While the Ed.S. is the most common path in school-based practice, those pursuing leadership roles, research, or university teaching often choose a doctoral track.

Graduate Program Components

School psychology graduate programs are rigorous and comprehensive. They typically include:

• Foundational coursework in areas like child and adolescent development, learning theories, abnormal psychology, and research methods
• Advanced assessment training covering cognitive, academic, social-emotional, and behavioral evaluations
• Instruction in evidence-based interventions for academic challenges, mental health concerns, and behavioral difficulties
• Cultural competency and equity training to ensure services are responsive to diverse student populations
• Legal and ethical practice modules with emphasis on special education law (IDEA, Section 504), FERPA, and confidentiality
• Supervised practica where students gain hands-on experience in schools under the guidance of licensed school psychologists
• A full-time internship, often lasting a school year, where students apply their skills in a real-world educational setting

This blend of academic learning and fieldwork prepares school psychologists to support students, collaborate with educators, and navigate complex school systems.

Licensure and Certification

To practice, school psychologists must be credentialed by the state in which they work. Certification requirements vary by state but often include:

• Completion of a NASP-approved graduate program
• A minimum of 60 graduate credit hours (for Ed.S.) or the equivalent in a doctoral program
• At least 1,200 hours of supervised internship (typically with at least 600 hours in a school setting)
• Passing the Praxis School Psychologist exam, a standardized test measuring knowledge and application of school psychology principles

Most school psychologists pursue the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential, awarded by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP). This voluntary certification demonstrates adherence to high professional standards and is recognized in many states for reciprocity.

Some may also choose to pursue board certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), particularly those in clinical or leadership roles. While not required for most school settings, it reflects an even higher level of professional achievement.

Lifelong Learning and Continuing Education

The field of school psychology is constantly evolving, and ongoing professional development is essential. School psychologists must stay up to date with the latest research, assessment tools, and legal updates. Many states require continuing education credits for licensure renewal, and professional organizations like NASP offer conferences, webinars, and training opportunities to help practitioners grow in their field.

Where School Psychologists Work

School psychologists work in a variety of settings, and their roles may differ depending on the age of the students they serve, the size of the district, and the unique needs of the community. While most are based in K–12 schools, their training allows them to support students across the full educational lifespan.

School-Based Settings

The majority of school psychologists are employed in public and private elementary, middle, and high schools. In these settings, they often work directly with students, teachers, and families to address learning and behavioral challenges, conduct assessments, and support school-wide mental health initiatives. Depending on the district’s resources, a school psychologist might be assigned to one school or travel between several campuses, especially in rural areas or smaller districts where specialists are shared.

Early Childhood and Postsecondary Environments

Some school psychologists specialize in early intervention and work in preschool or early childhood centers. Their role in these settings often involves developmental screenings, behavioral support, and helping families navigate early learning challenges. Others may work in colleges and universities, especially those transitioning from school-based to more clinical or research roles. In higher education, school psychologists might support students with learning differences, advise on accessibility accommodations, or teach future educators and mental health professionals.

Virtual School Psychologist Roles

As education becomes increasingly digital, virtual school psychology has emerged as a critical solution for meeting student needs, especially in remote or underserved regions. Teletherapy allows school psychologists to provide services such as online evaluations, counseling, behavior consultations, and participation in IEP meetings, all through secure digital platforms. These roles are growing rapidly, helping schools expand their support teams without being limited by geographic location.

Virtual school psychologists often collaborate with onsite staff, review digital academic data, and connect with families through video conferencing. With proper tools and training, they offer the same high-quality care as in-person professionals, ensuring that all students, regardless of where they live, have access to the mental health and learning supports they deserve.

 

Why School Psychologists Are Essential in Schools

From addressing trauma to supporting IEPs, school psychologists help students overcome barriers to learning. They work behind the scenes and directly with students to foster mental wellness and academic success.

Impact on School-Wide Outcomes

• Reduced suspension and expulsion rates
• Increased academic achievement
• Improved school climate

Supporting the Whole Child

School psychologists address the cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and social needs of students. This whole-child approach helps create nurturing learning environments where every student has a chance to thrive.

FAQs About School Psychologists

Q: Do school psychologists diagnose students?

A: Yes. School psychologists conduct assessments that may lead to diagnoses such as learning disabilities, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, or emotional disturbances. They use standardized tools and collaborate with other professionals when necessary.

Q: Are school psychologists therapists?

A: While school psychologists offer therapeutic support, their services are generally short-term and school-focused. They are not clinical therapists but can refer students to outside providers for long-term or specialized care.

Q: What students benefit from seeing a school psychologist?

A: Any student experiencing academic struggles, behavioral issues, mental health challenges, or social difficulties may benefit from working with a school psychologist. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

How Lighthouse Therapy Supports School Psychology Services

Lighthouse Therapy offers flexible, high-quality virtual school psychology services designed to meet the needs of your district and your students. Our team includes certified professionals who meet your state’s licensing and credentialing requirements, including School Psychologists, School Counselors, Licensed Mental Health Counselors, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and Board Certified Behavior Analysts.

We provide a full continuum of mental health and behavioral services that support diverse learners across PK–12, all delivered through secure, engaging platforms that make remote learning feel connected and personal.

What We Offer:

• Live remote psychoeducational evaluations using up-to-date digital testing materials from test publishers
• Consultation and collaboration with parents, guardians, and school teams
• Educationally Related Mental Health Services (ERMHS) including assessments and counseling
• Section 504 plan participation and support
• IEP planning, data collection, and attendance at meetings
• Individual and small group counseling aligned with MTSS or IEP goals
• Bilingual services to support diverse learners
• School staff in-service trainings to build capacity in mental health and behavioral strategies

Our Tools and Technology:

• HIPAA-compliant platforms for secure, live online sessions
• Engaging student-centered materials for all grade levels
• Interactive screen sharing and digital tools
• Online rating scales for parents and teachers that work on computers, tablets, and smartphones

Why Partner with Lighthouse:

• Access to certified and experienced professionals across disciplines
• Flexible scheduling that aligns with your district calendar
• Full compliance with IDEA, FERPA, and state-specific regulations
• Culturally responsive and bilingual support options

Whether you’re looking to fill a staffing gap, expand your student services, or ensure access to expert mental health care, Lighthouse Therapy is ready to partner with your district to provide compassionate, effective, and personalized virtual support.

Final Thoughts

School psychologists play a critical role in supporting the whole child. From assessments and counseling to IEP planning and trauma support, their impact touches every part of a student’s educational journey.

If you’re a school leader looking to strengthen your mental health services, consider how Lighthouse Therapy can help you bring experienced, compassionate school psychologists into your district.