Question

If I want to work as a psychologist in a hospital on medical floors (not just the psych department), is it better to have a PhD or Pys.D in clinical psych?

Answer 1

Both a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. in clinical psychology can lead to opportunities for working as a psychologist in a hospital on medical floors. However, there are some differences between these two types of degrees that may influence your decision.

Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) in Clinical Psychology:

1. Research-Oriented: Ph.D. programs in clinical psychology typically have a strong emphasis on research and academic training. Graduates often engage in original research, contribute to the field's knowledge, and may pursue careers in academia or research settings.
2. Clinical Training: While Ph.D. programs also include clinical training, the balance between research and clinical work may vary. Some Ph.D. programs offer a scientist-practitioner model, which combines research and clinical practice, while others might be more research-focused.
3. Licensure: Ph.D. programs often meet the requirements for licensure as a psychologist, which is essential for practicing independently in most states.

Psy.D. (Doctor of Psychology) in Clinical Psychology:

1. Practice-Oriented: Psy.D. programs are more practice-focused and emphasize clinical training over research. Graduates are typically prepared to work directly with clients and patients in a therapeutic setting.
2. Clinical Experience: Psy.D. programs typically offer extensive supervised clinical experience, which can be valuable for developing practical skills in therapy and assessment.
3. Licensure: Like Ph.D. programs, Psy.D. programs also usually meet the requirements for licensure as a psychologist.

Considering Hospital Work: When it comes to working in a hospital setting, both Ph.D. and Psy.D. graduates can find opportunities. Hospitals often hire psychologists to work in various departments, including medical floors, to address psychological needs of patients dealing with chronic illnesses, medical procedures, and emotional distress related to their health.

Factors to Consider: When deciding between a Ph.D. and a Psy.D., consider your career goals, interests, and strengths:

1. Research vs. Clinical Focus: Are you more interested in conducting research, teaching, and contributing to the field's knowledge (Ph.D.) or focusing primarily on clinical practice and direct patient care (Psy.D.)?

2. Length of Program: Psy.D. programs are often shorter than Ph.D. programs since they don't require the same level of research and dissertation work. This might be a consideration if you want to enter the workforce more quickly.

3. Financial Considerations: Ph.D. programs may offer more funding opportunities (e.g., teaching or research assistantships) compared to Psy.D. programs, which can be financially beneficial.

4. Internship Opportunities: Investigate the internship opportunities offered by each program, as a good internship can provide valuable real-world experience.

Ultimately, the decision between a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. should align with your career aspirations, interests, and the specific type of training you wish to receive to be best prepared for the roles you envision in a hospital or any other setting.