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Exercise Psychologist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Activity Assistant

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Plan, organize, and direct a program of activities, which provides opportunity for entertainment, exercise, relaxation, and expression and fulfills basic psychological, social, and spiritual needs ...

Providers may apply basic nutritional principles to exercise and educate patients on the psychological aspects of exercise, performance, competition, physical fitness and healthy lifestyle. * Sports ...

Treatment Associate

Nottoway, VA · On-site

$41K - $49K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

... psychological constructs and various intervention techniques; ability to evaluate and document treatment progress; exercise independent judgment in coordination and delivery of services and ...

Showing results 21-40

Exercise Psychologist information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$92K

$395.1K

How much do exercise psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for exercise psychologist in Virginia is $92,017.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,900.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an exercise psychologist?

Exercise psychologists are professionals who study how physical activity affects mental health and overall well-being. They use psychological principles to help individuals improve their motivation, performance, and adherence to exercise programs. These specialists often work with people recovering from illness or injury, as well as athletes and the general public, to promote healthy lifestyle changes and address psychological barriers to physical activity.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an exercise psychologist?

To thrive as an Exercise Psychologist, you need expertise in psychology, exercise science, and behavioral change, generally supported by a degree in psychology or sports/exercise psychology and relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, data analysis software, and intervention planning platforms is common in the role. Strong interpersonal skills, motivational abilities, and cultural sensitivity help build rapport and effectively guide clients through behavior modification. These skills ensure evidence-based interventions, foster client engagement, and promote lasting positive changes in physical and mental health.

How does an exercise psychologist collaborate with other healthcare professionals?

Exercise psychologists often work closely with physicians, physical therapists, and dietitians to develop comprehensive wellness plans for patients. They contribute psychological expertise to address barriers such as motivation and adherence to exercise regimens, ensuring interventions are tailored to individual needs. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and shared progress reports are common, fostering a collaborative environment focused on holistic patient care. This teamwork not only enhances patient outcomes but also supports professional growth and learning within the role.

What is the difference between Exercise Psychologist vs Sports Psychologist?

AspectExercise PsychologistSports Psychologist
CredentialsMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, certification in exercise or health psychologyMaster's or Doctorate in Psychology, specialized sports psychology certification
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, fitness centers, rehabilitation clinicsSports teams, athletic organizations, private practice
Industry UsageHealth promotion, rehabilitation, improving exercise adherenceEnhancing athletic performance, mental resilience for athletes

Exercise Psychologists focus on using psychological principles to promote physical activity, improve health, and aid recovery. Sports Psychologists specialize in mental skills training to enhance athletic performance and help athletes cope with competition stress. While both roles require similar credentials, their work environments and client focus differ, with Exercise Psychologists often working in healthcare and fitness settings, and Sports Psychologists working with athletes and sports teams.

What can you do with an exercise psychologist degree?

An exercise psychologist degree prepares individuals to work with clients to improve physical activity, mental health, and overall well-being through behavioral strategies and exercise programs. Graduates can work in clinical, sports, or community settings, often requiring certification or licensure, and utilize skills in counseling, assessment, and program development.

What does an exercise psychologist do?

An exercise psychologist specializes in using physical activity to improve mental health, motivation, and behavior. They assess clients' psychological readiness, develop tailored exercise plans, and often work in clinical or sports settings, requiring knowledge of psychology and exercise science. Certification or advanced training in health psychology or behavioral therapy is common for this role.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Exercise Psychologist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Exercise Psychologist job openings:

Infographic showing various Exercise Psychologist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,017 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

$33K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description
About Middle Peninsula Northern Neck Behavioral Health (MPNN BH)
At MPNN BH, our mission is "PROMOTING WELLBEING.... ONE INDIVIDUAL... ONE FAMILY... ONE COMMUNITY AT A TIME"
Our organization provides services designed to help members of our community achieve their individual goals. MPNN BH has over 60 distinct programs to aid and support all ages and many situations.
$16.00 hourly is the base salary
The position of Behavioral Health Residential Assistant is responsible for:
  • Direct care and monitoring of individuals in the transitional living facility. Employee will identify behaviors, situations or physical conditions that obstruct safety and security.
  • Delivers all services according to a recovery-based philosophy of care to create an environment of safety and security. Critical component of job is to possess strong interpersonal skills.
  • Must exercise tact and courtesy in contact with staff individuals, families, and service providers. Schedules include both day and night shifts.
  • Will be required to transport persons served in the MPNN BH vehicle.

Requirements
High School Diploma or equivalent, and 1 to 2 years related experience in a medical or psychological field, involving work with individuals diagnosed with severe mental illness or Co-Occurring disorder, preferably with an emphasis on the safety and security of individuals, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skilled and abilities.