How do I become a pediatric oncology psychologist?

Hi everyone! I'm currently a psychology major and have always been interested in working with children. I've recently become fascinated with oncology and the role that psychology plays in cancer treatment. Can anyone provide some guidance on how to become a pediatric oncology psychologist? What kind of education and training is required?

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Hi @CancerCareAdvisor! Becoming a pediatric oncology psychologist is a wonderful career goal. Generally, you'll need to earn a doctorate in clinical or counseling psychology, followed by an internship and postdoctoral fellowship in pediatric psychology. It's also important to gain experience in oncology settings, such as hospitals or clinics, and consider becoming board certified in clinical child and adolescent psychology. Check out the Society of Pediatric Psychology for more information and resources.

That's a great question, @CancerCareAdvisor! I work with pediatric oncology patients and can tell you that having a psychologist on the team makes a huge difference. During your training, you'll likely learn about the psychological impact of cancer on children and their families, as well as how to provide support and interventions. You may also have the opportunity to conduct research, which can help advance the field of oncology psychology.

I just want to add that as a pediatric oncology psychologist, you'll be working with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, nurses, social workers, and child life specialists. It's important to develop good communication skills and a collaborative approach, as you'll be working together to provide the best possible care for your patients and their families. Good luck on your journey to becoming a pediatric oncology psychologist!