5 Reasons Why Every School Needs a School Psychologist: A Perspective from the Field

As we celebrate School Psychologist Appreciation Week, it’s a fitting moment to explore the benefits that school psychologists bring to campuses nationwide. In an age where schools are tackling not only academic achievement but also mental health, resilience, and social-emotional learning, school psychologists are more essential than ever. Here are five research-backed benefits of having a school psychologist on campus—and a couple of innovative ways we could put our expertise to even greater use.

1. Supporting Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

It’s no secret that students today face more mental health challenges than previous generations. Anxiety, depression, and trauma are becoming more prevalent, often affecting academic performance and personal growth. School psychologists are trained to provide individual counseling, lead group interventions, and work collaboratively with teachers to create environments where students feel safe and supported. Research confirms that early mental health support is critical, and students with access to school psychologists are more likely to seek help and develop emotional resilience.

2. Enhancing Academic Achievement

School psychologists understand that academic achievement isn’t just about intelligence; it’s about creating an environment where all students can thrive. By assessing and supporting students’ learning needs, we help identify specific obstacles—whether it’s a learning disability, attention issue, or other cognitive challenges—and guide interventions. Studies show that individualized strategies, often devised with the insights of a school psychologist, lead to greater academic progress and more positive attitudes toward learning.

3. Promoting Positive Behavioral Support

Behavioral issues can disrupt not only a child’s learning but also the entire classroom’s dynamics. School psychologists are uniquely qualified to implement Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), a research-backed approach that reduces disruptive behavior and promotes a positive school climate. By focusing on reinforcing positive behaviors and teaching social skills, we help students develop self-control, empathy, and respect for others.

4. Providing Crisis Intervention

When a crisis hits—whether it’s a personal tragedy affecting a single student or a larger-scale event like a school-wide trauma—school psychologists play an essential role. Trained in crisis intervention and recovery, we offer immediate support to students, staff, and families. Studies on post-crisis intervention show that early, skilled support from professionals like school psychologists can dramatically improve long-term outcomes, helping students and teachers return to a sense of normalcy.

5. Encouraging Family and Community Connections

The role of a school psychologist extends beyond students to their families and the broader community. By building relationships with families, we help bridge the gap between home and school, empowering parents to support their children’s educational journeys. Community connections also enable us to link students and families to additional resources, which studies have shown to improve student attendance, academic performance, and overall well-being.

Two Innovative Uses for School Psychologists on Campus

1. Teaching “Brain Break” Classes for Self-Regulation Skills: Imagine a 20-minute session where students practice mindfulness, breathing exercises, and techniques for emotional regulation. School psychologists can design and lead these sessions, equipping students with lifelong skills for managing stress and emotions. Research supports the benefits of mindfulness in schools, showing improvements in students’ focus, self-control, and emotional resilience. This innovative approach can fit into daily routines, helping students handle academic pressure and social dynamics.

2. Implementing “Student Voice” Panels to Foster Inclusion: School psychologists can facilitate “Student Voice” panels, where students discuss issues impacting them, from academic pressures to social concerns. Research supports the idea that students thrive when they feel their voices matter. Through these panels, psychologists can gather valuable insights into student experiences and use this information to shape school policies, ensuring that school climates remain inclusive and responsive.

As School Psychologist Appreciation Week reminds us, the value of a school psychologist lies in the unique blend of academic, emotional, and social support we bring to students, families, and staff. We’re here to help all students succeed—not just in school, but in life.