Psychology Careers in Hawaii

The economy of Hawaii has seen a vertical growth in the year 2011 specifically in the health care sector, agriculture, business and tourism. Similarly, psychology careers in Hawaii have witnessed a boost as a lot of graduates have started to work in tourism and recreation, which is one of the top employment sectors of the state. It requires strong communication skills and an ever-increasing passion to improve lives of people living in this state. According to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) there were 44,000 residents of the state suffering from various mental disorders.

Overview

In the near future, the demand of these psychologists will most likely grow compared to other occupations in this state. It has a population of 1.3 million and is home to many cultural events. Tourism impacts the social balance of the state significantly. The aim of psychologists is to enhance the quality of life of people by integrating, encouraging and applying various strategies. They seek to strengthen public relations, develop solution for mental illnesses and respond properly to the multiple cultures of Hawaii.

Moreover, 93% of the relationships are reported as unsatisfactory. Consequently, people seek help of mental health professionals who have specialized in relationship therapy. Clinical psychologists could have a sky-high career, where they can resolve these issues that result from cultural diversity.

On the other hand, individuals in this state have been affected by family violence, drug abuse, crime and alcohol, which have increased the number of school psychologists for counseling. Education and health care industries employ the highest number of qualified professionals. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 30.4% people reported suffering from poor mental health in Hawaii.

Education Requirements

Individuals who have earned a graduate degree in psychology are well equipped to acquire a career that mainly focuses on human behavior. It is the basic requirement of employers throughout the state, whereas, those with a masters degree concentration have a higher chance of success. With an educational or clinical psychology degree, you can easily get a job in the education or health care sector. Moreover, a PhD is not only the minimum requirement to be qualified as a professional psychologist in clinics and schools in Hawaii, but it also shows your drive and dedication to employers.

License Requirements

After completion of a doctoral degree, individuals must complete 1900 hours or one year of work experience under supervision. More information regarding licensure can be collected from Hawaii Psychology Board Document. Following, your application will be reviewed for Hawaii psychologist Licensure, after which you will be qualified for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Career Opportunities

Since 1980, the state has been experiencing aging population which has increased employment opportunities in areas like human services, health care, case management and counseling in nursing and retirement homes. Job prospects are great in private sectors in the most populated city of the state, Honolulu, where graduates are involved in market and consumer insight research, advertising and comprehending human behavior.

There are tremendous opportunities in this state to build a career in clinical psychology. These experts are needed to treat a large population suffering from mental disorders in Hawaii. According to NAMI, 445 of the residents find proper treatment from Hawaii’s public mental health system, which shows a great need of clinical psychologists to take care of an overwhelmed system. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job prospects are projected to increase by 2016, whereas the employment level is 550.

Salary

According to salary.com, the average annual salary of a psychologist in Hawaii is $90,891.