So, You Want to Be a Clinical Psychologist

Is Clinical Psychology for Me?

Most people considering clinical psychology are interested in understanding people’s behavior as well as helping them live more fulfilling lives.

Clinical psychology is only one career path where this is possible.

It is important to find the career path that is the best fit for you.

Helping Professions: Mental Health & Social Services Areas

Doctoral Degree (plus License):

• Clinical psychologist (Ph.D.)• Counseling psychologist (Ph.D. or Ed.D)• Psychiatrist (M.D.)

Masters Degree:

• Mental health counselor• Social worker• Family & marriage therapist• Art therapist• Guidance counselor

Helping Professions: Mental Health & Social Services Areas

Bachelors Degree:

• case worker• child protection worker• behavior analyst• director of volunteer

services• substance abuse

counselor• program manager• psychiatric technician

• rehabilitation advisor• family service worker• residential youth

counselor• group home coordinator• social service director• daycare center supervisor• veterans' advisor • employment counselor

What Kinds of Work Might You Do?

Therapy-individual-group-family/couples

Assessment

Supervise/Direct Programs

Research

Teach

Where Might You Work?

Settings Include:

– Private Practice (individual or group)

– Hospitals (e.g., V.A.)

– Community Health Agencies

– Corporations

– Universities

What Should You Do at Buffalo State?

• Maintain a high GPA (will have more options)

• Get involved in activities outside the classroom

-internships in community (PSY488)-research experiences (PSY 499)

• Carefully plan courses-broad base in psychology -Statistics (PSY306) & Research

Methods (PSY 450)-explore interests via classes you take-additional minor may be useful

Getting More Information

• Advisor

• APA.org

• Career Development Center

• Book: Graduate Study in Psychology, published by American Psychological Association