Educational and Developmental Psychologists
What is an Educational and Developmental Psychologist?
Registered psychologists in Australia all receive foundational training in mental health and behaviour during 6 years of education and training.
Educational and Developmental Psychologists (Ed & Devs) complete an 8 year sequence of study, training, and supervised practice in optimising the learning, development, and wellbeing of individuals and organisations across the lifespan. To qualify for this legally protected title, they develop advanced competencies in the identification, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of learning and developmental disorders affecting critical periods of development; as well as mental health. This includes, but is not limited to, children and adults with learning delays or specific learning disorders (SLD), neurodivergence such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), as well as Intellectual Disability (ID).
Prevention and Early Support: Cradle to Grave
Educational and developmental psychology is distinguished by its strong focus on prevention and early intervention. Ed & Devs work closely with children, adolescents and other vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, to promote positive development across the lifespan – helping people to live and age well.
Ed & Devs are primed to support Australia’s ageing population. Trained in geropsychology, Ed & Devs are highly capable of delivering psychoeducational assessments and interventions for older adults to facilitate lifelong learning opportunities, promote positive ageing, address problems related to depression, anxiety, grief, and neurocognitive disorders (e.g. dementia, mild cognitive impairment, etc.), as well as assist families and agencies to manage end-of-care issues.
Mental Health
Good mental health is critical for optimal development across the lifespan. Psychologists trained in educational and developmental psychology need extensive knowledge of psychopathology and psychopharmacology. Ed & Devs regularly complete training in counselling, psychotherapy, and evidence-based treatments. They work across a range of settings, including: schools, hospitals, private practices, community organisations, aged care facilities, early intervention services, HealthTech, EduTech, and disability services. In fact, Ed & Devs are the only psychologists with exclusive training in the delivery of school psychology services.
Ed & Devs are particularly skilled at assessing, diagnosing and working with individuals with developmental disorder or delays who may be experiencing additional mental health challenges. Drawing on biopsychosocial theories of development and adopting perspectives from cognitive psychology, developmental neuroscience, and applied clinical and educational practice, Ed & Devs are especially equipped to modify existing evidence-based interventions for atypically developing people with complex needs.
