School Psychologists

School psychology is generally acknowledged as a general practice and health service provider specialty of professional psychology that is concerned with the science and practice of psychology with children, youth, and families; learners of all ages; and the schooling process. The basic education and training of school psychologists prepares them to provide a multitude of psychological services: psychological diagnosis, assessment, intervention, prevention, health promotion, and program development and evaluation services with a special focus on the developmental processes of children and youth within the context of schools, families, and other systems. School psychologists are prepared to intervene at the individual and system level, and to develop, implement, and evaluate preventive programs. In these efforts, school psychologists conduct ecologically valid assessments and intervene to promote positive learning environments within which children and youth from diverse backgrounds have equal access to effective educational and psychological services that promote healthy development.

School psychologists provide a variety of services for gifted, talented, and creative students. One of the most important is assessment. For schools that require intelligence testing for admission to gifted education programs, the school psychologist is usually the professional who administers and interprets the tests. In addition, school psychologists may be called on to consult with teachers and parents in designing individualized educational programs for gifted students who need special provisions to enhance their academic progress. Finally, twice-exceptional gifted students may need the services of school psychologists for the identification and treatment of and the referral for learning disabilities and psychological disorders.

This entry describes the background, education and training, and roles and functions of school psychologists.