Education Requirements
If you want to become a counseling psychologist, in most cases, you'll need to earn a doctoral degree. This is especially important for those who want to open a private practice that is separate from a hospital or treatment facility. You may choose to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) and Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.).
Counseling psychologists may begin their education requirements by studying psychology for four years as part of an undergraduate program. Some choose to earn a master's degree in counseling psychology, prior to their doctorate degree, as a way to further their psychology skills and gain access to research studies. Your courses are likely to cover theory and practice with a strong emphasis on conducting, understanding and implementing research. As part of your doctoral program, you're likely to take part in internships as a way to understand how your classroom skills will translate to the real world, as well as a dissertation.
Licensure
A key part of becoming a counseling psychologist is becoming licensed to practice in the state where you want to work. To become a licensed counseling psychologist, you'll need to earn your doctoral degree, take part in an internship and earn professional experience. The approving board will also require you to take and pass an examination that focuses on your counseling psychology abilities.
Job Postings from Real Employers
Counseling psychologists are employed nationwide in a variety of settings, like private counseling centers, hospitals or outpatient mental health facilities. Some also opt to open their own private practice on their own or with a group of fellow medical professionals. For the most part, employers look for counseling psychologists that have a doctorate, experience and a good sense of research trends in psychology. The following is a sample of job openings posted by the American Psychological Association (APA) in March 2012:
- A private practice in Pennsylvania is looking for a psychologist with a Ph.D. to join the practice. You'll need to work with clients of all ages and backgrounds providing counseling and therapy services. The candidate will also need to be licensed in order to be hired.
- A medical group in North Carolina seeks a counseling psychologist that can work full-time providing assessment and psychotherapy to nursing homes and assisted living facilities across the state. You'll need to have doctoral degree for the position and the ability to work with the aging population.
- A not-for-profit mental health organization in Washington is looking for a counseling psychologist that can provide counseling, therapy and assessment services to families, children and the elderly. You'll need to have your doctorate and licensure, as well as hold about three years of experience to be considered for the position.
