Psychology & Mental Health
Explore the fascinating world of psychology and mental health. From understanding how people think and behave to learning about wellness and support, this pathway helps you develop empathy, communication skills, and knowledge that could lead to careers in psychology, counseling, and social services.
Career Alignment:
Psychologist (forensic, health, counselling, educational, rehabilitation, etc)
Cognitive Neuroscientist
Counsellor (school guidance, addictions, career, etc)
Psychology University Professor
Social Worker
Human Resources
Correctional Officer
How the Award will get you there:
Example SMART Goal (Bronze, 13 weeks):
Over 13 weeks, I’ll spend 1 hour per week learning about psychology. I’ll research major psychological concepts, take notes, and create a presentation or summary for my teacher or club.
Example Assessor:
Psychology teacher, school counselor, or social science teacher
Example ORB Log:
Studied cognitive development concepts today. I improved my note-taking by creating visual diagrams. Found it interesting how thinking changes at different ages. Researching behavioral theories next week.
Example SMART Goal (Bronze, 13 weeks):
Physical activity supports mental health. For 13 weeks, I’ll practice yoga and mindfulness for 1 hour per week, tracking how it affects my stress levels and focus.
Example Assessor:
Gym teacher, yoga instructor, or mindfulness program leader
Example ORB Log:
Did a yoga session with guided meditation today. I improved my ability to hold poses and felt noticeably calmer during a stressful day. Trying a new breathing technique next session.
Example SMART Goal (Bronze, 13 weeks):
I want to support mental health awareness in my community. For 13 weeks, I’ll volunteer 1 hour per week helping with mental health workshops, peer support programs, or awareness campaigns.
Example Assessor:
School counselor, community center coordinator, or mental health organization staff
Example ORB Log:
Helped set up and distribute materials for a wellness workshop today. I improved my communication by practicing active listening. One participant said they felt heard and that made my day.
(Completed as a team. Participants will work together to plan and complete their journey.)
Example Activity:
Design a journey where your team observes and reflects on different environments such as busy spaces, quiet parks, or community centers. Discuss psychological concepts you notice and what you learned about people and places.
Example Team Goal:
Our team will visit at least 4 different environments, conduct observations, document our findings, and create a presentation connecting what we noticed to psychology concepts.
Example Assessor/Supervisor:
Psychology teacher, science teacher, or Award Leader
