Clinical psychologists are in demand in a variety of settings, such as classrooms of major universities, corporate headquarters, and in the entertainment world. The expertise and credentials needed to work as one of these professionals, however, can't be quickly acquired. It takes years to complete the necessary education. Find out what the major academic steps on cause and effect essay tips and training needs are to complete your degrees and preparation.

Your Skills and Abilities

Education doesn't begin and end in the classroom. Becoming a clinical psychologist is not an easy process. It will take five to eight years of graduate work after finishing your undergraduate degree. So look inside yourself first to see if you have the basic skills and qualities to become a psychologist. You should feel comfortable with people and be able to communicate with ease. Being a good listener is a must, as is having empathy, which is the ability to "put yourself in other people's shoes." Emotional stability is also a requirement, as you will most likely be dealing with people who aren't at their best and need you to help them get back to it. And you must be methodical, for psychology is a science and it requires careful observation and record-keeping to monitor progress.

Make Your Undergraduate Time Worthwhile

It's the obvious first step, but just because it's obvious doesn't mean it can be overlooked. Getting a bachelor's degree in psychology is more than just going to classes. You should look into programs that offer research positions for undergraduates. Internships with psychology professors, clinics, or social work organizations are also invaluable. If the university has one or more active psychology groups, that's even better. Use this time to not only learn about psychology, but to explore chances to gain real-world experience and to network with people in the profession.

Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology

During your graduate degree time you start to aim directly at potential career options. A master's in clinical psychology can qualify you to provide psychotherapy and assessments under the direct supervision of a licensed clinical psychologist. In this case, you would not need to earn a doctorate degree. Other master's degrees include experimental psychology, which focuses on research, and applied psychology, such as industrial or forensic psychology. Look for a program that offers solid support for clinical psychology in terms of research opportunities and field work. Don't discount teaching opportunities: there's a reason the old saw advises "To learn more, teach."

Three Main Options for Doctorate Degree

If you choose to go for the doctorate, you have three main choices in clinical psychology. The first is the traditional doctorate, which tends to be research-oriented. The lesser-known degree is the doctor of psychology (Psy.D.). This degree tends to be practice-oriented. Both degrees overlap substantially, though, so your goal here is to determine which degree program fits your overall needs best. A third degree is the doctorate in education. This degree is primarily oriented to teaching.

Training for Psychologists

At the master's levels, many programs require that students serve an internship. This usually consists of about 2,000 hours total, or roughly 40 hours a week for a year. Some internships are paid a nominal salary, but it isn't required. Unpaid internships provide experience that will pay off in the long term. Verify the range and options of internships offered by your choices for a master's program. A dissertation might be required to obtain a master's. A dissertation is required for the doctorate. The doctoral dissertation must be research-based, original work, and in many cases, must be presented formally to an evaluation board. An internship of between 2,000 and 3,000 hours might also be required for the doctorate.

Becoming a practitioner of clinical psychology is not a quick or easy task. You will be challenged. Your education will force you to grow and extend yourself in ways you can't anticipate. Internships and networking are essential for you to be able to put the degree to work after you graduate. All of it will be needed as you prepare to become a clinical psychologist.

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