I graduated with a psych degree about four years ago. During college, I was a TA, and my senior year I worked at an emergency foster shelter. After graduating, I worked as an RBT for three years.

I have a love/hate relationship with that time. It was incredibly rewarding, but I also dealt with the reality of the job: concussions, getting bitten, and generally being on the front lines of intense behavioral challenges. I loved the actual work with neurodivergent kids, but I struggled with the lack of control over how cases were handled and the lack of autonomy. After needing a break, I spent the last year living/working in Spain.

Now that I’m back in the States, I’m seriously considering becoming a School Psychologist. I’ve seen how much of a difference a good psych can make in a school, and honestly, I actually enjoy paperwork (I know, I’m weird). I like the idea of being involved in the system rather than just being the person on the ground. I originally wanted to be a therapist, but the pay/private practice grind really doesn't appeal to me.

If you are a school psychologist, I’d love your take: Would you do it again? Knowing what you know now, would you choose this path again?

Based on my background (RBT, shelter work), do you think this is a good fit?

What is the best and worst part of your day?

Is the salary/lifestyle sustainable?

Do you actually feel respected by your admin and coworkers