For those interested in moving and working abroad, here are some factors to consider and resources to explore before making the jump.
Do your homework. Psychologists who work abroad recommend doing extensive research on immigration, labor and licensing laws in a new country before accepting a position. Licensing regulations vary greatly among nations—some countries may even require additional training. Also consider what personal accommodations you’ll need to make, including managing finances, assets and visas for immediate family members.
Find a job. Many psychologists say personal and professional networks are a great starting point for an international job search. Others have found positions through LinkedIn and HigherEdJobs.comopens in new window . For government jobs, search USAJobs.govopens in new window for psychology positions in foreign locations. Psychologists can also find jobs abroad with nongovernmental organizations and private health companies with U.S. government contracts.
Expand your network. Start by searching within your professional network and organizations for psychologists who have relocated overseas. Those who have moved say connecting with other Americans living abroad helped them find jobs, understand legal requirements and learn about daily life in their new countries. Nicholas Scull, PhD, LCSW, recommends working to internationalize any research interests before relocating by identifying potential mentors and collaborators performing similar research in other countries.
After arriving in a new country, connect with colleagues and join relevant professional organizations. Expand your social network of expatriates through the website InterNations.org,opens in new window the Facebook group Worldschoolersopens in new window and regional online communities. Meanwhile, connect with locals through child care, religious organizations or personal hobbies.
Explore these resources. APA’s Div. 52 (International Psychology) represents psychologists with international interests and has a listserv where members can search for mentors working abroad, while Div. 17 (Society of Counseling Psychology) has its own international section. The International Union of Psychological Science holds conferences and hosts Psychology Resources Around the Worldopens in new window .
For those interested in obtaining training and certification for online practice, Juanita Dimas, PhD, recommends Person Centered Techopens in new window, an APA-approved provider of continuing education with expertise in telehealth technology and HIPAA compliance.