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Entry Level Psychologist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

All JobsEntry Level Psychologist JobsEntry Level Psychologist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Entry Level Psychologist information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$40.1K

$138.9K

$280.5K

How much do entry level psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level psychologist in Rio Rancho, NM is $138,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,900.00 and $201,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the entry level for a psychologist?

The entry-level position for a psychologist typically requires a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and completion of supervised internship or practicum. Many entry-level roles involve providing therapy, assessments, or research under supervision, and licensure is usually required to practice independently.

What does an entry level psychologist do?

An entry level psychologist typically assists with psychological assessments, conducts research, and provides support to licensed psychologists or senior staff. Their work may involve administering standardized tests, collecting and analyzing data, and helping to develop treatment plans under supervision. Entry level psychologists often work in settings such as clinics, hospitals, schools, or research institutions, and their responsibilities help them gain valuable experience for further licensure and independent practice.

Is 25 too late to become a psychologist?

Entry level psychologists typically complete a bachelor's degree, followed by a master's or doctoral program, which can take several years. Starting at age 25 is common and feasible, as many individuals pursue psychology careers after gaining experience or changing fields; age does not generally limit entry into the profession. Licensing requirements also involve supervised practice and exams, which can be completed at various ages.

What Does an Entry-Level Psychologist Do?

An entry-level psychologist is a fully licensed therapist or mental health expert that may still be getting mentorship and professional guidance from more experienced psychologists or counseling experts. In this career, you still have the same duties and responsibilities as any other psychologist. You make a diagnosis for a patient based on counseling sessions and then work with your patient to develop a treatment plant that fits their needs and goals. Only in certain limited cases, however, are psychologists allowed to prescribe medication to patients, and the requirements for that depend on the state in which you practice and whether or not you have taken coursework in pharmacology.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level psychologists when transitioning from academic training to clinical practice?

Entry level psychologists often find the transition from academic settings to clinical practice challenging due to differences in pace, client diversity, and the need for practical application of theoretical knowledge. Adapting to real-world cases, managing caseloads, and dealing with administrative duties like documentation can be initially overwhelming. However, most organizations provide supervision and mentorship to help new psychologists develop confidence and refine their therapeutic skills. Open communication with supervisors and proactive participation in team meetings are vital for ongoing professional growth and support.

What is the difference between Entry Level Psychologist vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectEntry Level PsychologistMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's or Doctoral degree in Psychology, licensure often requiredHigh school diploma or associate degree; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, private practices, research settingsHospitals, mental health facilities, residential programs
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health services, research institutionsBehavioral health facilities, hospitals, community programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in psychologyExploring support roles in mental health settings

Entry Level Psychologists typically hold advanced degrees and licensure, working directly with clients in clinical or research settings. Mental Health Technicians usually have less formal education, providing support and assisting licensed professionals in mental health environments. Both roles are essential in mental health services but differ in qualifications and responsibilities.

What jobs can I go straight into with a psychology degree?

Entry-level psychology graduates can pursue roles such as case manager, research assistant, mental health technician, or behavioral health technician. These positions often require strong communication skills, basic knowledge of mental health concepts, and sometimes certification or training in CPR or first aid.

What are the best entry level psychology jobs?

Entry level psychology jobs include roles such as psychological assistant, research assistant, mental health technician, case manager, and behavioral technician. These positions often require a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field and may involve supervised clinical or research work, providing foundational experience for future advanced roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Psychologist, you need a foundational knowledge of psychological theories, research methods, and assessment techniques, usually supported by at least a master's degree in psychology or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software, psychological testing tools, and patient record systems is common in this role. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and active listening abilities help in building trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective support, conducting accurate assessments, and fostering client well-being.
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Entry Level Psychologist jobs near you
SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY INTERNSHIP PROGRAM: SPECIAL EDUCATION

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY INTERNSHIP PROGRAM: SPECIAL EDUCATION

Albuquerque Public Schools

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Internship

Posted 17 days ago

Albuquerque Public Schools rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 549 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

To provide direct therapy and consultation services to individuals, groups and/or families in a school setting to facilitate behavioral and crises intervention, share with staff and families knowledge of community resources for mental health needs, and administer cognitive, academic achievement, and other social-emotional/behavioral assessment instruments to facilitate identification of students with disabilities and inform educational planning, utilizing current practices in school psychology
The APS School Psychology Internship Program provides prospective school psychologists with an opportunity to develop and integrate knowledge acquired through coursework and practica into relevant professional competencies. The program is designed to meet the internship standards of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and the certification requirements of the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED). The internship requirement is one academic year of full-time work.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
QUALIFICATIONS OF INTERNS:
Students applying for the internship program should have a university training program director who will certify the student's eligibility for internship. Candidates for internship should possess entry level knowledge and competencies in the following areas:
  • Assessment: The intern should be proficient in the administration, scoring, and interpretation of individual measures of intelligence, academic achievement, cognitive processing, personality, adaptive behavior, and behavior rating scales. The intern should be familiar with the principles and techniques of curriculum-based assessment (CBA), and functional behavior assessment (FBA). In addition, the intern should be able to conduct informal assessments, observations, clinical interviews, and record reviews.
  • Report Writing: The intern should be able to write integrated diagnostic reports, including recommendations for parents, teachers, and other allied professionals.
  • Intervention Planning and Consultation: The intern should have the knowledge base and communication skills necessary for conducting consultations with school personnel and parents, as well as the basic problem analysis skills needed for participation in the development of classroom interventions. The intern should be familiar with the principles associated with effective operation of a Multi-Tiered (Layered) Systems of Supports framework.
  • Professional Standards and Ethical Principles: The intern should be familiar with the 5 NASP Standards for the Provision of School Psychological Services and the NASP Principles of Professional Ethics.
  • Awareness of School Organization: The intern should possess a basic understanding of the organizational structure of schools and the roles of key school personnel.
  • Knowledge of at-risk subpopulations: The intern should have knowledge of common learning and school adjustment problems presented by preschool and school-age students, and of special education services available. This knowledge should include a basic understanding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
  • Knowledge of Cultural, Ethnic, and Socioeconomic Factors: The intern should have knowledge of the impact of cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic factors and alternate lifestyles on interactions between students and the school environment. Further, the intern should be sensitive to the possible impact of these factors on the accuracy of data obtained via typical psycho-educational assessment techniques and instruments.

PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND EXPERIENCE:
The minimum expectations for this job are as follows:
  • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Flexibility, organization, decision-making and problem solving skills.
  • Interpersonal skills with diverse populations in-person and on the telephone.
  • Knowledge of APS community, computer system, financial and legal requirements.
  • Ability to meet deadlines, work on multiple projects and coordinate the work of others.
  • Knowledge of District policies on immunization, medication, first aid, emergencies and child abuse/neglect.
  • Knowledge of all laws, regulations and guidelines affecting teachers and students.
  • Knowledge of effective classroom management techniques.

REQUIREMENTS:
REQUIREMENTS OF INTERNSHIP PROGRAM:
All interns are required to serve an internship of one academic year. The work calendar for school psychologists consists of 194 days, 6.5 hours per day, resulting in a minimum of 1200 hours of supervised training. At least 300 hours of training must consist of direct service activities with students identified as having an emotional disability. The intern is expected to work during normal school operating hours.
Additionally, upon satisfactory completion of the internship program and completion of necessary degree requirements, the intern agrees to work as a full-time school psychologist within the district for a period of at least two academic years.
All interns will attend an orientation meeting with the supervisor. Topics to be addressed during orientation include, but are not limited to: internship program procedures, Albuquerque Public Schools district guidance and procedural guidelines, office procedures, Special Education Department procedures, and state and federal laws.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Dr. Valerie Hoose / valerie.hoose@aps.edu or Lisa Oliphant / oliphant@aps.edu
APPLY TO:
Students interested in the internship program must submit the following:
  • APPLY ONLINE: WWW.APS.EDU/Jobs, Certified Application.
  • Letter of interest
  • Current resume
  • Student copies of all academic transcripts
  • At least two letters of reference: one of which must be from his/her program director, field/internship supervisor/coordinator, or full-time school psychology program faculty member; and
  • At least one sample psychological reports/case studies

For questions regarding the applicant process, contact applicant processing at 505-889-4820 or aprequest@aps.edu
ADDITIONAL INFO:
Though subject to change each year due to district budget considerations, the current stipend is approximately $35,000 plus benefits for the full 194-day work calencar. Completion of the internship program will be counted as one year of experience
Notification of acceptance into the internship program is generally provided to the candidates by the beginning of May.
SALARY: Schedule A
DAYS: 194
HOURS: 6.5
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