Career psychology is a dynamic and evolving field that blends personality theory, lifespan development, and contextual systems to understand how individuals make career decisions and experience career satisfaction.
In this accessible and informative CPD module, counselling psychologist Hailey Van der Berg provides a practical overview of the foundational theories that underpin career psychology. The course explores four major theoretical frameworks:
Holland’s Person-Environment Fit Theory
Super’s Life Span Developmental Theory
Career Construction Theory
Systems Theory Framework
These models are unpacked in terms of their core assumptions, practical implications, and the psychometric tools commonly associated with each approach. Hailey also reflects on how each theory can be applied in practice to better understand clients’ vocational interests, identity, values, and life roles.
This course is ideal for psychologists in private practice, schools, or organisational settings who want to build or refresh their understanding of career development frameworks
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to:
Describe the major theoretical models in career psychology and their foundational principles
Understand how each theory informs assessment tools and counselling approaches
Identify psychometric instruments aligned with different career development models
Apply theoretical insights to understand individual differences in career choice, satisfaction, and adjustment
Recognise the influence of personal, developmental, and contextual factors in career decision-making