Clinical Psychology:
Definition
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“The field of Clinical Psychology involves
research, teaching, and services relevant to the
applications of principles, methods, and
procedures for understanding, predicting, and
alleviating intellectual, emotional, biological,
psychological, social and behavioral
maladjustment, disability and discomfort,
applied to a wide range of client populations”
(APA; Division 12).
Research and teaching
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Most likely need a Ph.D. in clinical psychology
Nearly every Ph.D. in other areas of psychology
(e.g., Developmental, Aging Studies, Social,
Neuroscience) will allow expertise in research
and teaching, but they do not typically provide
training in clinical service.
Job settings include universities, colleges,
teaching hospitals, research centers, etc.
Services in Clinical Psychology
(Evidence Based Practice)
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Therapy
Assessment
Consultation
Preventive programs
Neuropsychology
Possible Career Paths to Become a
Therapist
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Psychology
 Masters or PhD in Clinical Psychology
 PsyD
Education
 Masters or PhD Counseling Psychology
 Education Specialist or EdD or PhD in School Psychology
Social Work
 Masters of Social Work
Rehabilitation Counseling
 Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling
Medicine
 MD–Psychiatry
 MD–Behavioral Pediatrics
 RN–Psychiatric Nursing
Back to the Ph.D. in
Clinical Psychology
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Very competitive
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Ph.D. versus Psy.D.
Make sure to seek an APA accredited program
Research experience counts a lot (especially for
more research-oriented programs)
Apply widely (at least 15 programs)
Average Acceptance Rates for APA-Accredited
Clinical Psychology Programs
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Freestanding UniversityPsyD
based PsyD
Practiceoriented
PhD
Equal
emphasis
PhD
Researchoriented
PhD
50%
10%
10%
6%
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41%
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Source: Mayne, Norcross, and Sayette (2006; p. 41).
Where to get more information
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Handout
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Good luck!!