Spiritual psychologists counsel people and help them achieve emotional, spiritual and mental well-being. Patients who seek their advice are usually going through a spiritual crisis and need a non-judgmental environment to share their problems.

Should I Become a Spiritual Psychologist?

Education Required Master’s or Doctoral degree
Major Requirement Psychology
Training Required
Licenses/Certifications Required
Key Skills Analytical Skills, Communication Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Observational Skills, Patience, Interpersonal Skills and Integrity.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $98,230 (Psychologists, All Other)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 14% (Psychologists)

Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics

A spiritual psychologist helps people explore the spiritual side of their life. These professionals usually recommend activities like meditation so the concentration level of their patients could be improved. They may also recommend close examination of their own, as well as alternate beliefs. All these activities allow patients to better understand their own values and beliefs.

Career Outlook

As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for psychologists are expected to increase by 14% from 2018-2028. The demand for psychologists will increase in the coming years as people would be coming to them more often as compared to the past. The competition for employment in the field of psychology varies with the specialization. Spiritual psychologists usually find employment in churches, rehabilitation centers, mental Spiritual centers and educational institutes.

Steps to Become a Spiritual Psychologist

  1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree
    2. Aspiring spiritual psychologists have to get an undergraduate degree in psychology as a first step. This program typically involves taking courses like clinical psychology, transpersonal psychology, creative consciousness, developmental psychology and counselling psychology. Students who want to pursue their career in spiritual psychology are also recommended to take courses like theology and religion.

  1. Obtain a Master’s Degree
    2. The second step to become a spiritual psychologist is to get a master’s degree. A master’s degree usually covers topics in counseling, theology and the Bible. Students also have the choice to concentrate on subjects like concepts of Jungian psychology, spirituality in the work place, spiritual psychology or consciousness. Various methods, such as independent learning, group discussions and classroom seminars, are used to teach students during this program. A master’s program also includes an internship.

  1. Get a Doctorate Degree

    2. Some students choose to get a doctorate degree to advance their career. They usually get a doctorate degree in spiritual psychology or an advanced degree in counselling psychology with focus on spirituality.

  1. Obtain Licensure

    2. All practicing psychologists need to be licensed.

  1. Get Certified

    2. There are no accredited bodies that offer certification for spiritual psychologists. However, professionals who are pursuing their career in this field can receive independent certification from other organizations. The International Coach Federation offers a certificate for life coaches, while a certification for spiritual doctors is offered by the Spiritual Directors International.

    The American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) does not offer certification in spiritual psychology but candidates can obtain a certificate in clinical psychology.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Spiritual Psychologist?

Prospective spiritual psychologists have to complete a 2-year master’s degree after completing a 4-year bachelor’s program. Some students opt for a doctoral degree as well. Since there are no recognized bodies that offer certification, a few students obtain independent certification.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Spiritual Psychologist?

Following are the requirements to become a spiritual psychologist:

  • Get a bachelor’s degree
  • Get a master’s degree and complete an internship
  • Obtain a doctoral degree
  • Look for employment

How Much Can I Make After Becoming a Spiritual Psychologist?

As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists other than clinical, counseling, school and industrial psychologists were getting an annual mean salary of $98,230 in 2019.