do you need a Ph.d to become a psychologist and have your own practice?

Answer 1

Yes, to become a "licenced clinical psychologist" you need a doctorate, either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Only holders of a doctorate PLUS a licence may use the title "clinical psychologist." You can also practice as a "licenced professional counselor" privately (at least in Illinois) with a masters, but only after licensure which involves at least two years of supervised and documented experience.

PS: Be wary of ignorant, subjective advice such as which degree-holder is more professional. The person defines his or her professionalism, not the degree. Psy.D.'s are actually targeted more toward clinical practice, not necessarily any better or worse.

You can research more on your own at:

http://www.apa.org/topics/psychologycareer.html

Be sure to check the laws of each state in which you plan to practice to be sure you know the regulations of specific licensure requirements.

GOOD LUCK!!!

Answer 2

To be considered a psychologist, you need either a Ph.D., Psy.D., and sometimes an Ed.D. (depending on the state and the doctoral program). After graduation, you need one year of supervised postdoctoral experience (again, this depends on the state). Then you will need to get your license (after passing the licensure exam).

According to the American Psychological Association, "Psychologists have a doctoral degree in psychology from an organized, sequential program in a regionally accredited university or professional school."

Answer 3

yes you have to have a PhD to be a psychologist. With a masters you can be a psychotherapist, bachelors- a counselor or social worker, and medical/mental heath degree - a psychiatrist and prescribe drugs

you do not need a PhD to have your own practice. in some states even a college dropout could have their own practice, you just cant get certified until you have at least a masters and certain amount of hours of experience. you need to be certified to accept insurance and you wont get many clients unless you accept insurance. states very so check into yours.

Answer 4

A psychologist can not administer drugs besides. it really is reserved for the psychiatrist, who has lengthy previous to clinical college. you may not be a psychologist with no phd yet you may be a therapist with in hardship-free words a masters. A bachelors receives you little or no. that is in hardship-free words the first step.

Answer 5

Yes either a Ph.D. or Psy.D.

Check out my source...it has a lot of information

Answer 6

Yes in most areas you MUST have your doctoral in order to practice privately.

Answer 7

I've heard of people with masters degrees--e.g. psychiatric social workers and nurses with a masters in psychology--doing psychological counseling.

Answer 8

Yes, you need a doctorate degree.

Answer 9

Yes. I would suggest a PHD, PSYDs don't seem as professional.