4 answers
Sienna
Student
Elkton, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
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What psychology related jobs can you do as a teenager?
Hello! I am fifteen, sixteen in less than a week, and I want to be a clinical psychologist. I love helping people, and while I'd do it for fun. I want something that I can put on a resume or application, especially (but not specifically) if it pays. As someone who struggles with my mental health as well, I know what it's like and it's easy for me to empathize with others. I'm also taking AP Psychology, and I get decent grades, mainly B's with the occasional A, but overall I have a weighted GPA that's over 4.
The issue isn't that I don't want to do the research, but that most things relating I what I want to do, rightfully, are for those eighteen and up. It's understandable, because the profession can be very draining, but I still want the experience, not just for college, but to help more people.
Is there anything I could do?
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4 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Sienna,
You’ve got an amazing drive, Sienna, and honestly, that’s half the battle when it comes to psychology. The passion you have for helping others, combined with your empathy and lived experience, is exactly what makes a great clinical psychologist. And I get it—finding actual psychology-related jobs as a teenager is tough, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start gaining experience right now. You just have to get a little creative.
Roger had a great point about volunteering. It’s one of the best ways to gain real-world experience, especially since many psychology-related positions require you to be 18 or older. Look for opportunities with crisis hotlines, peer support groups, or mental health organizations. Even if you’re not directly counseling people, you can still help with outreach, awareness campaigns, or behind-the-scenes support. The key here isn’t just to do something for the sake of your resume, but to actually be around people who are struggling and learn how different mental health systems work.
Giuseppe gave some deep, philosophical wisdom, and I love his point about empathy and relationships being powerful tools. Psychology isn’t just about what you learn in textbooks—it’s about understanding people, their emotions, and how they interact with the world. One of the best ways to do this as a teenager is by working with children, elderly individuals, or vulnerable populations. You could mentor younger students, tutor kids who need extra help, or volunteer at an after-school program. These experiences will sharpen your ability to connect with others, read emotions, and support people in different ways—all of which are crucial in clinical psychology.
If you’re feeling ambitious, another option is reaching out to local colleges or psychology professors to see if they have any research opportunities for high school students. Some universities allow high schoolers to assist with data entry, literature reviews, or even remote projects. Even if they say no, just asking shows initiative, and you might find someone willing to let you shadow or participate in a study.
Another creative route is starting your own psychology-related initiative. Maybe a blog, podcast, or social media page where you discuss mental health topics, share research, or even document your own learning journey. This not only helps educate others but also showcases your passion in a tangible way. Plus, when it comes time to apply for college or jobs, having something like this on your resume makes you stand out big time.
On top of all this, keep learning on your own. Books, online courses, psychology podcasts—anything that deepens your understanding of the field will give you an edge. Websites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy have great psychology courses, and they can help you go beyond what you're learning in AP Psych.
At the end of the day, psychology is all about people. The more experiences you have interacting with different kinds of people in different settings, the better prepared you’ll be for a future in clinical psychology. And don’t stress too much about having the perfect job right now. Even if it’s just working at a community center, a summer camp, or a nonprofit, those experiences will shape you into the kind of psychologist who truly understands and connects with others.
Keep that passion alive, and you’ll go far. All the best Sienna. Don't hesisitate to ask if you got anything else in that head! 🤗
You’ve got an amazing drive, Sienna, and honestly, that’s half the battle when it comes to psychology. The passion you have for helping others, combined with your empathy and lived experience, is exactly what makes a great clinical psychologist. And I get it—finding actual psychology-related jobs as a teenager is tough, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start gaining experience right now. You just have to get a little creative.
Roger had a great point about volunteering. It’s one of the best ways to gain real-world experience, especially since many psychology-related positions require you to be 18 or older. Look for opportunities with crisis hotlines, peer support groups, or mental health organizations. Even if you’re not directly counseling people, you can still help with outreach, awareness campaigns, or behind-the-scenes support. The key here isn’t just to do something for the sake of your resume, but to actually be around people who are struggling and learn how different mental health systems work.
Giuseppe gave some deep, philosophical wisdom, and I love his point about empathy and relationships being powerful tools. Psychology isn’t just about what you learn in textbooks—it’s about understanding people, their emotions, and how they interact with the world. One of the best ways to do this as a teenager is by working with children, elderly individuals, or vulnerable populations. You could mentor younger students, tutor kids who need extra help, or volunteer at an after-school program. These experiences will sharpen your ability to connect with others, read emotions, and support people in different ways—all of which are crucial in clinical psychology.
If you’re feeling ambitious, another option is reaching out to local colleges or psychology professors to see if they have any research opportunities for high school students. Some universities allow high schoolers to assist with data entry, literature reviews, or even remote projects. Even if they say no, just asking shows initiative, and you might find someone willing to let you shadow or participate in a study.
Another creative route is starting your own psychology-related initiative. Maybe a blog, podcast, or social media page where you discuss mental health topics, share research, or even document your own learning journey. This not only helps educate others but also showcases your passion in a tangible way. Plus, when it comes time to apply for college or jobs, having something like this on your resume makes you stand out big time.
On top of all this, keep learning on your own. Books, online courses, psychology podcasts—anything that deepens your understanding of the field will give you an edge. Websites like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy have great psychology courses, and they can help you go beyond what you're learning in AP Psych.
At the end of the day, psychology is all about people. The more experiences you have interacting with different kinds of people in different settings, the better prepared you’ll be for a future in clinical psychology. And don’t stress too much about having the perfect job right now. Even if it’s just working at a community center, a summer camp, or a nonprofit, those experiences will shape you into the kind of psychologist who truly understands and connects with others.
Keep that passion alive, and you’ll go far. All the best Sienna. Don't hesisitate to ask if you got anything else in that head! 🤗
roger rosser
Laborer
4
Answers
Morgan Hill, California
Updated
roger’s Answer
I would suggest volunteering in anyway possible, feel free to put yourself out there and watch how others interact with each other. If psychology is what your career path is to be let people naturally show you how to start guiding you down that path
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1207
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Sienna,
People like you, who are truly passionate about helping others—are rare, and it’s amazing that you’re already so dedicated to psychology at such a young age. Your empathy, combined with your hard work in AP Psychology, is a strong foundation for a future career in clinical psychology. I completely understand how frustrating it can be that most opportunities are for those 18 and older, but it’s great that you’re eager to gain experience now.
There are still plenty of ways to build your resume and make a difference. You might consider volunteering with mental health organizations, peer support groups, or even crisis text lines, some allow volunteers under 18. Tutoring, mentoring younger students, or working in community outreach can also help you develop the listening and communication skills that are essential in psychology.
If possible, you could reach out to local therapists or psychologists to see if they’d allow you to shadow them or share insights about their work. Some clinics, hospitals, or nonprofits offer teen leadership programs focused on mental health advocacy. You might even start a mental health awareness club at school, organize events, or contribute to online platforms that promote mental wellness.
While direct clinical experience is limited at your age, anything that involves emotional support, active listening, or mental health education will be valuable. Plus, these experiences will show colleges and future employers that your passion goes beyond academics. Keep following your curiosity and compassion, you’re already on an incredible path!
Wishing you the best, and happy early birthday!
People like you, who are truly passionate about helping others—are rare, and it’s amazing that you’re already so dedicated to psychology at such a young age. Your empathy, combined with your hard work in AP Psychology, is a strong foundation for a future career in clinical psychology. I completely understand how frustrating it can be that most opportunities are for those 18 and older, but it’s great that you’re eager to gain experience now.
There are still plenty of ways to build your resume and make a difference. You might consider volunteering with mental health organizations, peer support groups, or even crisis text lines, some allow volunteers under 18. Tutoring, mentoring younger students, or working in community outreach can also help you develop the listening and communication skills that are essential in psychology.
If possible, you could reach out to local therapists or psychologists to see if they’d allow you to shadow them or share insights about their work. Some clinics, hospitals, or nonprofits offer teen leadership programs focused on mental health advocacy. You might even start a mental health awareness club at school, organize events, or contribute to online platforms that promote mental wellness.
While direct clinical experience is limited at your age, anything that involves emotional support, active listening, or mental health education will be valuable. Plus, these experiences will show colleges and future employers that your passion goes beyond academics. Keep following your curiosity and compassion, you’re already on an incredible path!
Wishing you the best, and happy early birthday!
Giuseppe Rotolo
Medical doctor, psychotherapist in Italy
7
Answers
Palermo, Italy
Updated
Giuseppe’s Answer
Dear Sienna,
Your desire to care for others is truly valuable to us psychologists. That passion is the extra drive that will allow you to enjoy your work and achieve excellent results. Enhance your empathetic and relational skills; they are powerful tools. There are many ways to practice psychology, and well-used relationships and empathy are excellent instruments.
I am an older medical doctor and Gestalt psychotherapist, turning 62 next month. For me, Gestalt psychotherapy and then phenomenological psychotherapy allowed me to express myself fully, achieving what I desired in life. Put passion into what you do, rediscover and express your beauty. The Greek philosopher Plato said that beauty, goodness, and justice coincide. Plato argues that beauty and justice are particular manifestations of the Good. In other words, what is beautiful and what is just participate in the Idea of the Good, reflecting its perfection.
Trust in your beauty. Your beauty will guide and support you in making the best choices. I wish you a happy life.
Your desire to care for others is truly valuable to us psychologists. That passion is the extra drive that will allow you to enjoy your work and achieve excellent results. Enhance your empathetic and relational skills; they are powerful tools. There are many ways to practice psychology, and well-used relationships and empathy are excellent instruments.
I am an older medical doctor and Gestalt psychotherapist, turning 62 next month. For me, Gestalt psychotherapy and then phenomenological psychotherapy allowed me to express myself fully, achieving what I desired in life. Put passion into what you do, rediscover and express your beauty. The Greek philosopher Plato said that beauty, goodness, and justice coincide. Plato argues that beauty and justice are particular manifestations of the Good. In other words, what is beautiful and what is just participate in the Idea of the Good, reflecting its perfection.
Trust in your beauty. Your beauty will guide and support you in making the best choices. I wish you a happy life.
Loved reading this, thanks!
Cecilia