Does having a PhD/PsyD in psychology make someone a psychologist, or do they have to be licensed to be considered a psychologist?
All states require psychologists to be licensed.
https://www.psychologist-license.com/articles/psychologist-licensure.html
Thanks for responding, Ms. Sue. I am still slightly confused. I have a professor who has a PhD in social psychology. He does not have a private practice, and did not get licensed. Is he still considered a psychologist?
I would consider him a psychologist because the school has hired him as such.
OK. Thank you!
You're welcome.
Having a PhD/PsyD in psychology does not automatically make someone a psychologist. In order to be considered a psychologist, individuals typically need to satisfy certain requirements, including obtaining a license to practice. Let's break down the process:
1. Education: To become a psychologist, individuals typically need to obtain a doctoral degree in psychology. There are two common degree options: a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). Both degrees require several years of graduate study, including coursework, research, and clinical training.
2. Internship: After completing the doctoral program, aspiring psychologists usually participate in a supervised clinical internship. This involves gaining practical experience in a professional setting, working directly with clients.
3. Postdoctoral Experience: Some jurisdictions require individuals to obtain additional postdoctoral experience before they can apply for licensure. This may involve working under supervision for a specified period and is designed to further develop their skills as a psychologist.
4. Licensing: The specific requirements for licensure vary by jurisdiction, as different states and countries have their own licensing boards and regulations. However, most jurisdictions require candidates to pass a licensing exam (e.g., the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology in the United States) and fulfill other criteria, such as supervised clinical practice hours.
Once individuals have completed these steps and obtained their license, they can legally practice as psychologists. It's important to note that licensing requirements exist to ensure that practitioners meet certain professional standards and ethical guidelines.
In summary, while a PhD/PsyD in psychology is an important step towards becoming a psychologist, individuals generally need to complete an internship, gain postdoctoral experience (in some cases), and obtain a license to practice in their jurisdiction in order to be considered a psychologist.