Careers in Psychology : Requirements to Be a Psychologist

[yuriynyr]

Thank you very much.

[PBast872]

yes

[MrSuperbird13]

does being a psychologist have anything to do with body language or reading people?

[blink56k]

Anyway, final word of advice on the requirements. If you don't want to go for the doctoral or md degrees, make sure you research the masters degrees in your state closely: some can have private practice, some may not, and others limit you to a certain population (ex. the M.S.Ed. if all you want to do is school counseling). I'm obviously biased toward the MSW because of its flexibility (an MSW can be a school counselor, a case manager, or a therapist), but just be clear about what you want to do.

[blink56k]

@blink56k Just a breakdown of the degrees for those interested in therapy:

**Medical Degrees**

Psychiatrist - Literally, go to med school and do a psych residency (8+ yrs,, MCAT and undergrad degree strong in sciences and lib arts required).

**Doctoral Degrees**

Phd. - Trains you to be both a researcher and clinician (3-5 yrs, GRE and 3.5 or greater undergrad GPA usually required)

Psyd.- Main focus is placed on being clinician (3-5 yrs., GRE and 3.5 or greater undergrad GPA usually required)

[blink56k]

@blink56k (Continued)

**Masters Degrees**

MSW/LCSW - clinical social work (2 yr program, 1 yr spent learning general social work practice, 1 yr spent in clinical specialty, no GRE usually required, and an undergrad GPA of 3.0 or +)

LMHC - licensed mental health counselor (2 yr program, coursework varies but mainly includes counseling theory, diagnosing, human development, GRE usually required, and undergrad GPA of 3.0 or +)

MSEd. in counseling: similar as LMHC, but focused on school counseling

[jeplvswar]

I have a long way to go thank you, very informative.

[AllahkaDost1]

Neuropsychologist. X

[jbmusic21]

how many years would it take to finish all the school you need??

[dgafmate]

champion, really appreciating all this info, thanks

[JuuliannoMan]

you're a diamond, thankyou!! x