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Developmental Associates

Psychology Aide

Columbus, OH · On-site

D., Clinical-Developmental Psychologist, is seeking Psychology Aides to work with children and adults with developmental disabilities, specializing in individuals on the Autism Spectrum. This role ...

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How much do developmental psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for developmental psychologist in the United States is $81,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,500.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Developmental Psychologist?

A developmental psychologist studies human development and its relation to cognitive abilities and health. Because this field is so broad, many developmental psychologists focus on a specific stage of life. For example, some may assess young children with motor and speech skills delays and create treatment plans for their families to help the child overcome or manage these issues. Other developmental psychologists move into academia to conduct research and teach at the university level.

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

To thrive as a Developmental Psychologist, you need a doctoral degree in psychology, strong research methodology, and expertise in human development across the lifespan. Proficiency in statistical software such as SPSS, data analysis tools, and familiarity with diagnostic assessments are typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and empathy are vital soft skills for working with clients and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure accurate research, effective interventions, and meaningful support for individuals at various developmental stages.

What are some common challenges faced by developmental psychologists when conducting research with children?

Developmental psychologists often encounter challenges such as obtaining informed consent from both parents and children, ensuring ethical standards are met, and designing age-appropriate assessments. Building trust and rapport with young participants is crucial for collecting reliable data, and maintaining their attention during studies can be difficult. Additionally, psychologists must be mindful of developmental differences and tailor their methods to suit various age groups, which adds complexity to both planning and data analysis.

What are developmental psychologists?

Developmental psychologists are professionals who study how people grow, develop, and change throughout their lives. They focus on physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development from infancy through old age. Developmental psychologists conduct research, assess developmental issues, and may work in academic, healthcare, or educational settings to support healthy development. Their work helps improve understanding of learning, behavior, and mental health across the lifespan.

What is the difference between Developmental Psychologist vs Child Psychologist?

AspectDevelopmental PsychologistChild Psychologist
CredentialsDoctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), licensureMaster's or Doctoral degree, licensure often required
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, clinics, schools, hospitalsPrivate practice, clinics, hospitals, schools
Industry UsageResearch on development stages, assessment, interventionDiagnosis and treatment of childhood mental health issues
Common Search IntentDevelopmental milestones, research, assessmentsChild behavior, therapy, mental health treatment

Developmental Psychologists focus on research and assessment of developmental stages across the lifespan, including childhood. Child Psychologists primarily diagnose and treat mental health issues in children. While both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, their primary focus and job functions differ.

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Developmental Psychologist jobs near you
Developmental Psychologist

Developmental Psychologist

Southwest Human Development

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

A positive future for every child

Southwest Human Development is Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. The first five years of life are the most critical in a child’s development. At Southwest Human Development, our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time.

Your skills, experience, and passion are needed at one of the nation’s largest nonprofits dedicated to early childhood development. Join our team and experience a long-term career that brings joy and satisfaction in knowing you make a difference.  We offer over 40 programs and services to more than 140,000 children.

Why choose us?

  • Make an impact in a child’s life by promoting child health and development.
  • View benefits here!
  • Opportunities for continued professional growth and development.
  • Supportive and collaborative work environment.

Job title: Early Childhood Psychologist (additional Information found here) 

Psychologists will use clinical experience and expertise to work with young children ages birth to 5 (and their families) who have a wide range of developmental delays and disabilities. The ideal candidate should be knowledgeable about and committed to family-centered, team-based, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed service delivery models. As well as, have experience with an integrated medical, developmental, and mental health/behavioral health approach to supporting young children and their families.

In this role, you will:

  • Participate in transdisciplinary team assessments.
  • Administer, score, and interpret psychological and developmental tools for young children with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorder evaluations.
  • Assimilate information gathered from a variety of sources for a comprehensive and holistic view of the child, the family, and their needs.
  • Collaborate and consult with team members to synthesize assessment results into a comprehensive and integrated treatment plan.
  • Complete record reviews and select tools that are sensitive to age, culture, language, and developmental level.
  • Complete comprehensive reports that include treatment recommendations and connections to community services.
  • Counsel families regarding assessment findings and impressions.

 What it takes:

  • Doctorate in Clinical or School Psychology
  • A licensed Psychologist in the state of Arizona is required.
  • Post-doctoral experience to include training and experience in evaluations with children birth to 5 years.
  • Ability to work independently but also to work within a trans-disciplinary setting using a team-based approach.
  • Experience using relationship-based approaches to treatment and assessment.
  • Competency with the use of the following tools: Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), and Wechsler Scales.
  • Experience with family-centered and team-based approaches to assessment and service delivery.
  • Experience working with young children ages 0-5 with Autism is required.
  • Knowledge and assessment of trauma in young children is required.
  • Familiarity with the DIR® and the DIRFloortime® intervention is preferred.
  • A valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card OR must qualify for a valid Arizona Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card is required.

SWHD takes the health and safety of our employees and the communities we serve very seriously. We strongly believe vaccination is a critical safety measure to protect each of us and the communities we serve. COVID vaccinations have proven to be highly effective at protecting people from getting COVID-19 or from getting severely ill from it.

Learn more!

Our core values embody Southwest Human Development’s commitment to services that uplift the lives of children, families, and other care providers, and the communities in which they live. These values are intended to guide the professional development, ethical conduct, and skilled practice of all our staff, whatever their specific role within the agency. All staff are valued as making essential contributions to strengthening the foundation that Arizona’s children need for a great start in life. Learn more about our values and benefits here.

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