Introduction
Are you considering pursuing a career as a clinical psychologist and are asking “what is a PsyD?” Seeing “PsyD” pop up in your Google searches for doctoral degrees? Read on to learn more about the PsyD and find out if it is a good fit for you and your career goals.What is a PsyD?
A PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology degree for an individual who is trained to provide evidence-based psychotherapeutic treatments. PsyDs are specifically trained in clinical practice, which is different from PhDs in Clinical Psychology. PhDs focus more on research than on clinical practice and clinical work. Those with a PhD are trained to become researchers and/or scientists in the areas of psychology.
PsyDs are specifically trained in clinical practice.
A Doctorate of Psychology degree, which is abbreviated as PsyD, is a professional doctorate in the field of psychology.
A Doctorate of Psychology degree, which is abbreviated as PsyD, is a professional doctorate in the field of psychology. To earn this degree, students must complete a minimum of three years of supervised training and clinical experience after receiving their master’s degree. Students enrolled in a PsyD program may also choose to specialize in a certain area. Universities typically offer several different specializations.A PsyD program will include courses on topics such as:- theories and methods of research and practice
- clinical assessment and treatment
- diagnosis and treatment planning
- professional ethics
With a PsyD, you can become a licensed psychologist.
After you've completed your clinical training, you can apply for licensure through the state where you live. While there are differences in admission requirements from state to state, most states require that applicants have a doctoral degree (PsyD or PhD) with at least two years of experience working under supervision in the field. In addition, most states require professionals to pass a national exam such as the Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) before they can receive their license. Once licensed, psychologists may work independently or as part of a group practice; they may also choose to work in hospital settings or schools.Psychologists who want to specialize may choose a concentration such as neuropsychology or forensic psychology. Some of these fields require additional education and training beyond a standard doctorate program. Training in some of these sub-specialties may be available to students with graduate degrees but no clinical experience at all—a common route taken by those seeking advanced degrees—while some programs mandate completion of three years of postdoctoral training before entry into practice is allowed.With a PsyD you can have your own practice.
A PsyD is a professional degree, so you can practice independently. As an independent practitioner you may provide services in private practice, clinics, hospitals, schools and universities (if your state allows it), government agencies, or any other setting with the capacity to pay for your services.You will need to become licensed in the state where you plan to work as a psychologist if it is not already required by law for all professionals with this degree.We recommend contacting your state licensing board for information on how to become licensed and for the application materials. You should also check with your college or university's registrar's office to make sure you have fulfilled all degree requirements.
As an independent practitioner you may provide services in private practice, clinics, hospitals, schools, universities, and more.
