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Children Psychologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Psychologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Psychologist We are seeking a dedicated psychologist to join our team, offering a mix of telehealth ... Perform screenings and evidence-based outpatient evaluations for children and adolescents with ...

Psychologist We are seeking a dedicated psychologist to join our team, offering a mix of telehealth ... Perform screenings and evidence-based outpatient evaluations for children and adolescents with ...

Psychologist

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Psychologist We are seeking a dedicated psychologist to join our team, offering a mix of telehealth ... Perform screenings and evidence-based outpatient evaluations for children and adolescents with ...

Psychologist

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Psychologist We are seeking a dedicated psychologist to join our team, offering a mix of telehealth ... Perform screenings and evidence-based outpatient evaluations for children and adolescents with ...

Psychologist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Reporting to the Behavioral Health Director, the Psychologist will provide individual, group, and ... Comfort and competence working with patients across the lifespan-including children, adolescents ...

Psychologist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Reporting to the Behavioral Health Director, the Psychologist will provide individual, group, and ... Comfort and competence working with patients across the lifespan-including children, adolescents ...

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Showing results 1-20

Children Psychologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11.5K

$96.8K

$415.7K

How much do children psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for children psychologist in Riverside, CA is $96,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a children psychologist do?

A children psychologist specializes in diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioral issues in children and adolescents. They use a variety of techniques such as play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and counseling to help children cope with challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and developmental disorders. These professionals also work closely with families, schools, and other caregivers to support the child’s overall well-being and development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a children psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Children Psychologist, you need a solid background in child psychology, assessment methods, developmental theory, and typically a doctoral degree with state licensure. Familiarity with psychological testing tools, behavior intervention plans, and documentation software is essential. Strong communication, active listening, and empathy help build trust with children and families and facilitate effective interventions. These skills and qualifications are vital for accurately diagnosing issues, creating effective treatment plans, and supporting children's mental and emotional well-being.

What are some common challenges children psychologists face when working with young clients and their families?

Children psychologists often encounter challenges such as building trust and rapport with children who may be reluctant to share their feelings or experiences. Additionally, navigating complex family dynamics and ensuring confidentiality while engaging parents or guardians in the therapeutic process can be demanding. Managing emotional boundaries and balancing the needs of the child with the expectations of caregivers are also common hurdles. Effective communication, patience, and cultural sensitivity are essential for addressing these challenges and fostering positive outcomes.

What is the difference between Children Psychologist vs Child Therapist?

AspectChildren PsychologistChild Therapist
CredentialsDoctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), licensure requiredMaster's or doctoral degree, licensure varies by state
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, schools, private practicePrivate practice, clinics, schools, community centers
Industry UsageWidely used in mental health diagnosis and assessmentCommonly used for therapy and counseling services

Children Psychologists and Child Therapists both work with children to improve mental health, but psychologists typically have a doctoral degree and focus on diagnosis and assessment, while therapists often hold a master's degree and focus on counseling and therapy. Both roles are essential in child mental health care and often collaborate in various settings.

Is child psychology a good career?

Child psychology is a rewarding career that involves assessing and treating emotional, behavioral, and developmental issues in children. It typically requires a graduate degree in psychology, licensure, and strong communication skills. The field offers opportunities in clinical, school, or research settings with a growing demand for mental health services for children.

What are the career paths in children psychologist?

Children psychologists can pursue various career paths including clinical practice, school psychology, research, or specialized therapy such as play or developmental therapy. They may work in hospitals, schools, private practice, or research institutions, often requiring licensure and advanced degrees like a master's or doctorate in psychology.

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Children Psychologist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Children Psychologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Children Psychologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,829 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Neurodevelopmental Pediatric Psychologist, Thompson Autism Center (Grant Funded)

Orange, CA • On-site

CHOC Children's
Health Care and Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

$168K - $210K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide diagnostic and psychological assessment, intervention, treatment planning, consultation, crisis intervention, case management, and discharge planning for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.

  • Work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary treatment team including neurologists, psychiatrists, developmental and behavioral pediatricians, and other healthcare professionals.

  • Participate in supervision and training of students in psychology and related disciplines.


CHOC Children's rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Work Location

Orange, California

Work Shift

Day – 08hrs (United States of America)

Why CHOC?

At CHOC, we strive to be the leading destination of children’s health by providing exceptional and innovative care. We are responsible for the overall health of our community’s pediatric population in our hospitals, clinics, and practices. And because of our breadth of care, your career at CHOC can be as diverse and fulfilling as you determine. CHOC’s compensation structure, benefits offerings, and career development programs are geared to helping you achieve your professional and personal goals.

Environmental Sustainability Statement

Driven by the connection between children's health and a healthy environment, we commit to creating a healthcare model that incorporates environmental sustainability aligned with our mission to protect children's health and patient safety.

Job Summary

The Neurodevelopmental Pediatric Psychologist provides a full range of mental health services to patients and their families. Duties may include diagnostic and psychological assessment, intervention, treatment planning, consultation, crisis intervention, case management, and discharge planning for individuals with a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders. Children seen in the clinic range from infancy to late adolescence with a focus on children ages 16 months to 6 years. Will work collaboratively with a treatment team which includes neurologists, psychiatrists, developmental and behavioral pediatricians, medical sub-specialists, nurse practitioners, social workers, and other allied health care professionals (i.e., speech pathologists, occupational therapists). Provides evidence-based treatment/intervention of children with ASD and other comorbid psychiatric/medical/behavioral diagnoses including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and conduct problems. Participates in the supervision and training of students in psychology and other related disciplines.

Pay Range

Minimum $127,442 Midpoint $168,854 Maximum $210,267 Rate of pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to knowledge, skills, competencies, experience, education, as well as position requirements.

Experience
  • Required: Minimum one (1) year of experience in providing developmental and/or psychological/neuropsychological testing to young children and adolescents with suspected autism spectrum disorders and other related neurodevelopmental disorders including developmental delay, intellectual disability, anxiety disorders, behavioral disorders, and ADHD is required.
  • Preferred: One (1) year of mental health experience with children and families in a healthcare setting.
Education
  • Required: Ph.D. or Psy.D. from APA accredited doctoral program in clinical, school or counseling psychology. APA accredited internship.
  • Preferred: APA accredited internship with emphasis/specialization in pediatric psychology.
Training
  • Required: One (1) year of clinical training in pediatric or child clinical psychology at the doctoral or post-doctoral level.
  • Preferred: Post-doctoral fellowship in pediatric or child clinical psychology. Eligible for board certification in clinical and/or health psychology. Training and specialization in diagnostic instruments including Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) is preferred.
Specialized Skills
  • Required: Ability to relate and communicate positively and effectively in person, in writing, and on the telephone; think critically; work independently; manage multiple assignments; compose written material; work well under pressure; problem solve; organize and prioritize workload; pay close attention to detail. Work calmly and respond courteously when under pressure; lead, supervise, teach, and collaborate. Demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Preferred: Bi-lingual.
Licensure
  • Required: Basic Life Support (BLS); Psychology License: must have psychology license prior to start date, if psychology license is out of state (not California) must convert to a California psychology license within 6 months of hire date.
  • Preferred: Board certification in clinical and/or health psychology.
Work Environments

- Functional Demand: Sedentary - Very light energy level Lift 10 lbs. box overhead. Lift and carry 15 lbs. Push/pull 20 lbs. cart. Physical Activity Requirements: Bending, Carry Objects, Climbing, Keyboard use/repetitive motion, Pinching/fine motor activities, Push/Pull, Reaching forward, Reaching overhead, Sitting, Squat/kneel/crawl (Squad & Knee), Standing, Talk or hear, Taste or smell, Twisting, Walking, Wrist position deviation Physical Activity Lifting Lifting (Floor to waist level) - Constant 67 or more%, Lifting (Floor to waist level) - Frequent 36-66%, Lifting (Floor to waist level) - Occasional 0-35%, Lifting (Waist level and above) - Constant 67 or more%, Lifting (Waist level and above) - Frequent 36-66%, Lifting (Waist level and above) - Occasional 0-35% Sensory Requirements: Color Discrimination, Depth Perception, Far Vision, Hearing, Near Vision Environment Requirements: Airborn Communicable Disease, Bloodborne Pathogens, Chemical, Dust Particular Matter, Extreme Noise Levels, Extreme Temperatures, Radiation, Uneven Surfaces or Elevations

Non-Discrimination Statement

CHOC does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, genetic information, disability, sex, gender (including pregnancy, breastfeeding, childbirth, lactation or related medical conditions), gender identity or expression, medical condition, sexual orientation, veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or other protected characteristics in accordance with state and federal laws.

Support Information

If you desire support or accommodations throughout the Talent Acquisition process, please inform your Talent Acquisition Partner.

About CHOC

Recognized year after year as national leader in employee engagement, and named one of the best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report, this is an exciting time to be at CHOC. Our campus is constantly growing and offering new state-of-the art programs and services as we continue to meet the needs of more than 250,000 children annually, making the opportunities for career enrichment endless. We offer highly competitive salary levels and benefits, but the personal growth and fulfillment you’ll find at CHOC, coupled with an inspiring mission to nurture, advance, and protect the health and well being of children, are perhaps the most valuable payouts of all. We hope you will join our dedicated and talented team of associates committed to the highest standards of care and making a difference in the lives of children in Orange County – and beyond. Driven by the connection between children's health and a healthy environment, we commit to creating a healthcare model that incorporates environmental sustainability aligned with our mission to protect children's health and patient safety.

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