Psychologists can have Ph.D.’s or Psy.D.’s, but if they have an M.D., then they’re a psychiatrist! This guide to different counseling and psychology degrees includes the educational requirements of each. Included here are two different types of psychologists, as well as counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists.
To learn about different career opportunities in counseling and therapy, read Jobs for Psychology Graduates.
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)
In the field of psychotherapy, a Doctor of Psychology emphasizes talk therapy and counseling. To get a Psy.D., a student must complete three to five years of graduate level studies at university or college, including a supervised internship.
Therapists with Psy.D.’s must also take a state or provincial licensing exam, depending on their location. This type of psychology degree is newer than the traditional Ph.D. in psychology.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
In contrast with a Psy.D., a Doctor of Philosophy degree doesn’t strictly pertain to psychologists. That is, a Ph.D. can be obtained in almost any field, while a Psy.D. is just associated with psychology. A Ph.D. in psychology emphasizes teaching or research (often at the university or college level), though many psychologists with a clinical Ph.D also practice psychotherapy or counseling in private or public practice.
To earn a Ph.D., psychology students complete three to seven years of graduate level studies, including a supervised internship. All Doctor of Philosophy students must also write and defend their dissertation. To learn about the financial earnings of psychology graduates, read How Much Do Psychologists Make?
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
A social worker typically has a Master of Social Work under his or her belt, and helps people who are struggling with mental illness, abuse, or various social services issues. Social workers often help clients acquire legal and social services, such as Unemployment Insurance or home care nursing.
To earn an M.S.W., students need to complete two years of grad work, including a supervised internship. Prospective social workers may also need to write and defend a thesis, depending on the educational and certification requirements of their state or province.
Marriage and Family Therapist (M.F.T.)
Marriage and family therapists typically focus on counseling couples and families, and can work in private or public practices. To get an M.F.T., a student must complete two years of graduate level work, including a supervised internship. Similar to social workers, marriage and family therapists may be required to write and defend a thesis.
There is some crossover in these different careers in psychology and human services, but one thing is common to all: the ability to understand and accept basic human nature! To learn what this means in a practical sense, read The Top 10 Qualities of Good Counselors and Psychologists
Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen - Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen is a full-time writer and blogger in Vancouver, BC, and the creator of the Quips and Tips blog series.
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