Localize Your School Search
Degrees and Schools
Many schools offers bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in psychology. Ph.D and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D) programs are available. Some students focus on research. Some schools offer master's degrees in clinical psychology.
The American Board of Professional Psychology provides numerous specialty certificates. The American Psychological Association accredits doctoral training programs in clinical psychology.
Classes
Useful subjects to study include:
- Psychoanalysis
- Cognitive rehabilitation
- Psychotherapy
- Social learning methods
- Psychopathology
- Personality theory
- Cognitive-behavior theory
- Biopsychology
- Developmental psychology
Online Classes and Programs
Doctor of psychology and Ph.D in psychology programs with a specialization in clinical psychology are available online. Online master's degrees in clinical psychology are also available. There are numerous online bachelor's degrees in psychology.
Employment Requirements
A doctoral or a master's degree and a license are required for clinical psychologists to practice. In order to practice independently they usually need to have a doctoral degree. Those who have a doctoral degree are eligible to conduct research, teach and work in a variety of clinical positions.
Clinical psychologists are required to have a license to practice in the United States. Most states allow licensed or certified psychologists to practice only in areas where they have obtained professional competence through training and experience. Each state has its own qualifications, however the typical requirements among the states include having the appropriate degree from an accredited school and passing a written examination. In some states psychologists are also required to pass an oral examination.
Some of the major employers are mental health services facilities, counseling centers, hospitals, colleges, managed healthcare companies and substance abuse centers.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
While evaluating schools, prospective students should consider getting answers to the following questions:
- Training - Does the program include externships in a clinical psychology setting? How long are the externships?
- School's Reputation - What is the school's reputation with local employers?
- Job Placement - Does the school offer job placement services? Does the school provide job fairs?
- Curriculum - Does the program allow students to specialize in their area of interest?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school qualified to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Clinical Psychologists Job Description
Clinical psychologists help mentally and emotionally distressed patients adapt to life. They help clients deal with difficult situations. Clinical psychologists also treat patients who have severe psychiatric disorders.
Many clinical psychologists provide therapy for a variety of mental disorders and some clinical psychologists specialize in specific disorders. Some of the specialties are emotional disturbances, families and relationships, sports, health psychology and geriatrics. Many clinical psychologists specialize in children or adults. Many clinical psychologists perform research. Some of their responsibilities are shown below:
- Promote personal development
- Interview patients
- Make behavioral evaluations
- Keep detailed records of diagnosis, goals, and treatment notes
- Consult with psychiatrists and doctors regarding medications for their patients
- Consult with doctors and specialists to develop and implement treatment plans
- Administer and evaluate tests regarding a patient's mental disorder
Resources
- National Association of School Psychologists
- American Psychological Association, Center for Psychology Workforce Analysis and Research and Education Directorate
- American Board of Professional Psychology
- Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards
Online Course Finder
Find the path to your
education in 3 easy steps.
