| Aspect | Substitute School Psychologist | School Psychologist |
|---|
| Credentials | Master's degree in school psychology or related field; state certification/license | Master's or doctoral degree in school psychology; state certification/license |
| Work Environment | Temporary, short-term assignments in schools | Full-time, ongoing roles in schools or districts |
| Employer & Industry | School districts, substitute staffing agencies | School districts, educational institutions |
| Job Focus | Provide psychological services on a temporary basis, often covering absences | Conduct assessments, develop interventions, support student mental health long-term |
The main difference between a Substitute School Psychologist and a School Psychologist lies in the duration and scope of employment. Substitute School Psychologists typically work on short-term assignments to cover absences, while School Psychologists hold permanent or long-term positions focused on ongoing student support and assessments. Both roles require similar credentials, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.