Yes, it is possible to become a social and clinical psychologist as well as a clinical researcher. However, achieving this goal would require dedication, education, and training in multiple areas.
Education: To become a psychologist, you typically need a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology. You would first pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a graduate program in psychology to obtain your doctoral degree.
Specialization: During your doctoral studies, you can choose to focus on both social and clinical psychology. Many psychology programs allow students to specialize in multiple areas or to integrate different disciplines within psychology.
Clinical Training: To become a clinical psychologist, you'll need to complete supervised clinical training and internships to gain practical experience in working with patients and conducting assessments and therapies. This training is essential to obtain a license to practice as a clinical psychologist.
Research Experience: To become a clinical researcher, you should aim to gain research experience during your doctoral program. This could involve participating in research projects, assisting professors with their research, or conducting your own research studies.
Postdoctoral Training: After completing your doctoral degree, you may choose to pursue postdoctoral training in clinical research. This can provide you with additional expertise and skills in conducting research in a clinical setting.
Academic or Clinical Setting: As a social and clinical psychologist and a clinical researcher, you might find opportunities in both academic and clinical settings. In academic settings, you could work as a faculty member conducting research and teaching students. In clinical settings, you might be involved in research while also providing psychological services to clients.
Continued Professional Development: Staying current with the latest research and developments in both clinical psychology and clinical research will be crucial. This might involve attending conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses.
Keep in mind that pursuing multiple areas of expertise can be challenging and time-consuming. It's important to plan your educational and career path carefully to ensure you can manage the demands of both roles effectively. Additionally, the requirements for becoming a psychologist and a clinical researcher may vary depending on the country and region, so be sure to research the specific guidelines and regulations in your desired location.