Five Unique and Interesting Careers in Psychology

1. Aviation Psychologist

Airline pilots face significant stress, which is why aviation psychologists specialize in helping them manage their emotional health and well-being.

What exactly is an aviation psychologist? These specialists conduct research in cognitive psychology to improve the mental health of pilots and assist airlines in identifying suitable candidates for the profession. For example, aviation psychologists who specialize in pilot selection conduct aptitude tests and interview applicants to decide who airlines should hire.

When it comes to performance, aviation psychologists also evaluate whether pilots have the reaction times and psychological skills to fly commercial jets.

To pursue a career in aviation psychology, a solid foundation in psychology is required, and a background in aviation can help. For clinical or counseling roles, a doctorate and a psychology license are also necessary. Although aviation psychologists work closely with pilots and other airline personnel, the majority of their work is conducted in an office setting.

2. Media Psychologist

How does technology affect human behavior? Is social media harmful for children? The media landscape has evolved rapidly in the past few decades thanks to technology. Media psychologists research the intersection of media, technology, and psychology.

Specialists in media psychology conduct experiments, research the impact of media on people of all ages, and consult for tech firms. The field of media psychology encompasses cognitive psychology, social psychology, neuropsychology, and many other subfields. Media psychologists focus their work in areas, such as mass media, social media, educational technologies, or virtual reality.

As media technologies expand their reach, media psychologists can find unique career paths, including within marketing, education, and entertainment. Because media psychologists work in so many industries — and because "media psychologist" is not a common term on job search ads — you need to get creative about how to market yourself.

As with any other career in psychology, roles that include clinical or research responsibilities typically require a doctorate.

3. Sports Psychologist

Want to work in the exciting world of sports? Consider becoming a sports psychologist. In this specialty, you can apply psychological research to improve human performance and boost confidence.

Sports psychologists conduct psychological assessments and train athletes of all ages on key mental health skills. They also consult with athletes, coaches, trainers, and organizations on a wide range of mental well-being issues.

Brush up on cognitive psychology, human behavior, and team building to enter this unique career path. It is also helpful to research talent development, leadership, and performance planning to become a sports psychologist.

You need a doctorate in psychology to work as a licensed sports psychologist in clinical or research roles. However, you can work in sports psychology with a bachelor's or master's in psychology.

And if sports psychology isn't unique enough, consider becoming a circus psychologist. These specialists counsel gymnasts and aerial performers on issues, such as overcoming fear, fatigue, and the pressure of performing.

4. Neuropsychologist

How does the brain influence behavior? Careers in neuropsychology investigate the relationship between the brain and cognitive functioning. Neuropsychologists also research brain disorders to create treatment plans. For example, neuropsychologists may work closely with patients experiencing learning disorders, traumatic brain injuries, or brain cancer. Many also specialize in researching dementia.

In this unique branch of psychology, specialists need strong research skills. Neuropsychologists conduct interviews, administer tests, and measure cognitive functions. They may also review medical records to better understand neurological challenges. Neuropsychologists often work in clinical or research settings, where they meet with patients and conduct tests.

You need an in-depth understanding of brain structures and systems to work in neuropsychology. Neuropsychologists work closely with neurologists, physicians, and psychiatrists to treat patients. Careers as a neuropsychologist require a doctorate and clinical training to qualify for psychology licensure.

5. Wilderness Therapist

Wilderness therapists combine their clinical skills with an appreciation for the outdoors to provide a unique setting for counseling clients.

Like animal-assisted therapy, wilderness therapy leverages the power of nature to help people address negative thinking, manage mental health conditions, and build self-confidence. During sessions, groups may hike or camp, exploring their emotional and behavioral patterns in a natural setting.

Psychologists who specialize in wilderness therapy may work with teens or adults, and some specialize in family wilderness therapy. The Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Research Cooperative ensures that wilderness therapy programs meet high standards, including for therapists and psychologists who treat patients in the programs.

Wilderness therapists typically need at least a master's degree to receive a counseling license. Those practicing wilderness therapy under the title of psychologist must have a doctorate.