Careers in Rehabilitation Psychology
Many students first become attracted to Rehabilitation Psychology during graduate school. Interest may be piqued by rehabilitation oriented clinical experiences: practicums, internships, or postdoctoral fellowships. Students, early career psychologists, and mid-and later-career psychologists may also become intrigued by Rehabilitation Psychology through research and networking, as well as clinical opportunities and experiences. In fact, for students and practicing psychologists, networking can provide much information about the exciting field of Rehabilitation Psychology. Division 22 hosts the Mid-Winter Annual Conference – an inviting, friendly gathering of psychologists with whom one can discuss career goals and opportunities. This conference is open to all and offers networking dinners for psychologists at different career stages and settings (e.g. students, early career psychologists, private practice). To get plugged into Rehabilitation Psychology career mentoring, we also recommend joining Division 22, following the Division 22 email list, and contacting the Division 22 student and/or early career psychologist representative. Division 22 also has a specific Mentoring Program for those at any point in the career path (students thru mid-career mentees).
There are an infinite career paths and types of employment in Rehabilitation Psychology. The "What is Rehab Psych?" section of the website highlights the diversity of work settings. Below are reflections from rehabilitation psychologists, who ranged from 2 to 34 years in practice: