5 Career Paths in Psychopharmacology

What is Psychopharmacology?

Psychopharmacology is the scientific study of the effects drugs can have on a wide range of mental illnesses and how they affect behavior. This field combines both natural and social sciences, as it requires a well-developed understanding of both medicine and psychology.

Psychopharmacology is also the study of drug-induced deviation in thinking, mood, and behavior. A psychopharmacologist must understand the mechanisms of drugs and the body’s reaction to each drug choice. Additionally, they should also have the skills to build and navigate a working relationship with each patient.

5 Career Paths in Psychopharmacology

Students that earn their graduate degree in psychopharmacology have a wide range of career fields to enter into. Here are five such career paths, each with their own specialized roles and places within organizations

1. Physician assistant

As a physician assistant or PA, a psychopharmacologist works under a doctor’s supervision in a clinic, health care facility, or hospital.

With a specialization in psychopharmacology, a physician assistant can prescribe drugs, specifically those treating mental health and behavior. In this role, a psychopharmacologist must have excellent knowledge of pharmacodynamics (what drugs do to the body) and pharmacokinetics (how the body processes a drug).

2. Psychiatrist

With a background in psychopharmacology, you may study further to become a licensed psychiatrist. A clinical psychopharmacologist in a psychiatric role will have the knowledge, qualifications, and skills required to determine the necessary drugs of choice for a particular patient’s mental illness and offer therapy for further care and complex disorders.

3. Mental Health Counselor

A mental health counselor works with a selected population such as children, college students, families, individuals, couples, and families to provide mental health therapy.

A psychopharmacologist is fit for this job because a mental health counselor must have a holistic knowledge of the different drug types that can treat mental conditions and emotional instabilities such as grief, depression, anxiety, and anger.

4. Clinical Psychologist

A clinical psychologist works in health care facilities and mental health centers where they diagnose and treat patients with psychological problems. Those with a background in psychopharmacology understand the workings of the brain and its relationship with various prescription drugs that are often used in therapy settings. With this knowledge, clinical psychologists can accurately diagnose and treat psychological conditions effectively.

5. Researcher

The field of psychopharmacology requires consistent research, upkeep, and trial work to ensure that mental health drugs are on par with medical advancements and current practices. A researcher specialized in psychopharmacology can focus on mental health deviation, the effects of various drugs on behavioral patterns and cognitive reasoning, the use of natural therapy, and more.

Psychopharmacology Graduate Programs

Graduate programs in psychopharmacology involve specializations in different psychopharmacology fields. At The Chicago School, we offer three degree programs in psychopharmacology.

Our M.S. in Clinical Psychopharmacology is a two-year online degree program that will help develop your competence and enhance your expertise in assessment and diagnosis of mental health-related conditions and their link to drug use and effects.

Our M.S. in Clinical Psychopharmacology Illinois Prescriptive Authority Preparation Track is suitable for those currently practicing clinical psychology and seeking to broaden their knowledge in the field of psychopharmacology as well as the medical conditions relevant to mental health care.

Upon finishing an M.S. in Clinical Psychopharmacology, those seeking licensure will still need experience with clinical rotations. This is the time to integrate academic knowledge with live clinical and ethical practice.

Our M.A. in Psychopharmacology provides broad insight into the field and a better understanding of mental health care. The 18-month online program is suitable for students with an undergraduate or graduate background in mental health, psychology, or counseling who are looking to build careers in health care or clinical social work.

Learn more about psychopharmacology programs at The Chicago School or other available degree programs by filling out the form below to request more information.