psyd or phd in clinical psychology reddit

Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD: Some Factors to Consider

Your degree choice will determine your training, as well as your career options..

Posted March 2, 2016 | Reviewed by Ekua Hagan

Like many people who are interested in psychology, you may be considering a career involving clinical psychology. This is a good choice because clinical psychology covers a broad range of interest areas—children, adults, families, sports, forensics and many more.

In addition, there are many paths you can take toward a degree involving clinical psychology. You can earn a master’s or doctoral degree and you can receive training in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, social work, sports psychology, or even medicine as a psychiatrist. Finally, your career path can lead to a job involving research, treatment (including therapy ), teaching, or a combination of these areas.

Today, I (Jonathan) want to focus on a question I hear a lot from students and others—should you get a PhD or PsyD? (I will hold off on other clinical psychology question, such as getting a Master’s or Doctoral degree for now.) This question is very important because it will impact how you will get trained in graduate school and the career options you will have once you earn your advanced degree. There are a number of websites that describe the distinction between a PhD and PsyD.

For brevity, let’s just be clear that:

• A PhD is a Doctor of Philosophy , whereas a PsyD is a Doctor of Psychology.
• PhD students are generally trained following the scientist-practitioner model that puts greater emphasis on research than PsyD students, while PsyD students are generally trained with greater emphasis on clinical work than PhD students.
• A PhD degree is earned in 5-7 years, while a PsyD degree is earned in 4-6 years, keeping in mind that this includes 1 internship year.

Now that I presented the distinction, let’s get right to it—what are the critical factors to consider when deciding whether to be trained as a PhD or a PsyD? In presenting these factors, I stuck to the general premise that the individual making this decision could go to either a PhD or Psych program. Of course, the ability to choose a PhD or a PsyD program may not be available to all students, because they do not meet the criteria of a particular program. These criteria may include grades, GRE scores, or life experiences. In addition, it is very important to keep in mind that, as a rule, the number of students selected for graduate school is quite small for a PhD program (typically 10 or fewer) compared to a PsyD program (which can reach as high as 100).

Let's get back to the factors important for making a PhD-PsyD decision. The first factor you need to consider is whether you will be funded during your years in graduate school.

It is typically the case that students in a PhD program receive some type of funding. This includes tuition, a stipend (a fixed sum of money paid for being a Teaching or Research Assistant), or in many cases, both types of aid. This can add up to literally tens of thousands of dollars each year in financial assistance. You will not be rolling in dough, but the fact that you will not have to pay tuition alone is a big deal because it will significantly reduce any debt you might incur in graduate school. This can turn out to be very important in the sense that the amount of money you will earn as a PhD clinical psychologist may not be as high as you imagined. (Check out careersinpsych.com to see salary info.)

PsyD programs, in general, are unable to provide the same type of support as a PhD program. Part of this is tied to the fact that PhD students serve as Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants, but the same is generally not true of PsyD students at a particular school. In addition, because PhD programs have far fewer graduate students than PsyD programs, schools are able to afford to support PhD students.

I feel it is important to bring up an issue that takes into account the factor of funding—the length time you will be in graduate school. As stated above, the time in graduate school is typically shorter for a PsyD student than a PhD student. In a practical sense, this means that a PsyD student is able to get out and earn a real salary (on average) a year before a PhD student.

Now, this is where things get a bit interesting. Say you get out of school and earn about $60,000 with your PsyD. Of course, this is way more than the stipend at any PhD program; the stipend might be close to $20,000. However, the $60,000 you earn in your year out of graduate school will be needed to start paying back what could be at least $100,000 in tuition costs. To find out tuition costs for any APA accredited PhD or PsyD program, go to their website and look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” I think you will be very surprised to see the tuition costs at both PhD and PsyD programs. As stated earlier, a PhD student will typically not have any tuition debt hanging over their head. Thus the $40,000 extra in salary for the PsyD student in the year they are working compared to the stipend of a PhD student is offset by the tuition debt the PsyD student must repay.

The second factor to think about when deciding to apply to a PhD or PsyD program involves APA accreditation, for both graduate school and internship. APA states that, “Although graduating from an accredited program does not guarantee jobs or licensure for individuals, it may facilitate such achievement. It reflects the quality by which an educational institution or a program conducts its business. It speaks to a sense of public trust, as well as to professional quality.” Based on this statement, it would be wise to search out APA-accredited programs.

With regard to internships (that every PhD and PsyD student must complete), APA also notes that, “Students who take unaccredited internships are ineligible for positions with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the single largest employer of psychologists. They are also barred from civilian positions with the military. In addition, a handful of states require aspiring psychologists to have had an APA-accredited internship to be licensed, and many others require them to show that they completed the equivalent of an APA-accredited internship.” Once again, there are real advantages to your ultimate employment plans by completing an APA-accredited internship.

One nice thing about this second factor is that you have the ability to find out the percentage of students who received an APA accredited internship vs. non-APA non-accredited internship for any APA accredited PhD or PsyD program. Go to the program’s website and again look for the link that says “Student Admissions, Outcomes and Other Data.” If a school does not list this information, it is not APA-accredited and should be viewed with caution.

The third factor to consider is what career path you would like to follow. On the one hand, if you want to conduct research both in graduate school and beyond, you should probably go for a PhD. On the other hand, if your career goals lean toward more practical work (e.g., being a therapist) with no real intention of conducting research in graduate school or upon graduation, you should probably get a PsyD. There is an important caveat to this distinction, however. You might be a person who wants to conduct research in a particular area (e.g., ADHD ) because you feel the research experience will help you understand a particular mental health issue. Moreover, you might hope to graduate and get a job working with individuals who reflect that research area, but you have no plans to continue your research work. In this case, a PhD is probably for you.

In presenting these important factors to think about if you are choosing to be a PhD or PsyD, we of course understand that each individual has unique circumstances that must be taken in account. Still, we hope that presenting these factors gives you some food for thought as you consider your ultimate career path in clinical Psychology.

Please note that the comments of Dr. Golding, Dr. Lippert, and the others who post on this blog express their own opinion and not that of the University of Kentucky.

Jonathan Golding, Ph.D. , is a professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky. Anne Lippert, Ph.D. , is a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Kentucky.

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PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology [2024 Guide]

Are you contemplating the career benefits of a PsyD vs. PhD?

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Both of these often respected and fulfilling degree paths can lead to exciting things. Let’s explore the differences.

Comparing a PsyD vs. PhD in Psychology – Key Differences

You may be considering a doctorate degree in psychology because you’re simply fascinated by the human mind. You may also be confident that you can use your passion for helping people to carve out a very fulfilling career.

It’s important to be very methodical and targeted when choosing your degree path if you’re going to be working in a doctorate-level role. Let’s compare and contrast PsyD and PhD degrees.

A PsyD is considered an “alternate” degree path that puts an emphasis on the clinical and applied aspects of the field. A PsyD is likely a good fit if your goal is to work within a professional practice or counseling setting.

PsyD graduates typically work in clinical settings like psychiatry practices, rehabilitation centers, public schools, universities, or prisons. The coursework for a PsyD revolves heavily around applying things like evidenced-based research and standards of practice in real-world settings.

PsyD programs are designed to help students learn how to apply many decades of research to patient settings. Original research is not the primary goal of someone pursuing a PsyD. Yes, you will likely do independent research as part of your learning path. However, most of your focus will likely be on learning to apply your education in clinical settings.

A traditional or online PhD in psychology is often a natural fit for someone with an acute interest in the research side. This path may appeal to you if you love to break down data to discover insights. The insights that you discover through your independent research could help to move the field forward.

Many PhD holders work in research settings where they design and conduct tests and surveys to gain better understandings of things like human behavior, the effectiveness of various treatments, and underlying causes of psychological disorders.

PhD graduates are also qualified to work as instructors at colleges and universities. That means that they can apply what they’ve learned through study and research to help train the next generation of psychologists and researchers.

Many healthcare and government institutions also hire PhDs for consulting duties. The expertise that a PhD in the field of psychology can bring to the table is important for forming policies and decisions at both private and public institutions.

Ultimately, it is important to know what is a PsyD and what is a PhD in psychology before determining the best degree path for yourself.

Doctoral Psychology Careers & Salaries

What types of job roles are open to people with doctoral degrees in psychology? Roles can be filled at private practices, mental health facilities, schools, universities, and research facilities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the median annual wage for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is $79,820. Here’s a look at some specific annual salary expectations based on government data:

Salary expectations should be based on years of experience and the type of institution you’re employed by during your career.

PsyD vs PhD Salary Differences

It’s not an apples-to-apples comparison when it comes to salaries for these two degree paths. The setting that you choose to work in will heavily influence your salary.

Potential for promotions and raises when moving from a general counseling role or social-work role. A private practice can often be the most lucrative option because you are earning revenue based on patient volume.

PsyD graduates can often expect generous pay when working as corporate or sports psychologists.

PhD graduates can typically command the highest salaries when leading research projects. Some PhD graduates earn six figures as tenured college professors.

Both PsyD and PhD candidates have very similar overall salary projections. However, the reality of your salary potential with either psychology degree online comes down to the type of setting you choose to work in.

Psychology Specializations & Concentrations

Most people who pursue PsyD and PhD degrees want to apply their skills to some very specific passions and interests. Here’s a look at some areas of focus for doctoral candidates:

• Clinical psychologists work one-on-one with patients to treat and diagnose mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They often work in practices, hospitals, and care facilities.
• Forensic psychologists apply their skills to the legal arena. They lend their expertise to things like investigations and court cases. Government agencies and local law enforcement routinely consult with forensic psychologists when working on cases or investigating crimes.
• Mental health psychologists use their highly specialized training to evaluate a person’s mental health. This is done through recognized and respected methods for interviewing, evaluating, and testing.
• Organizational psychologists provide services to organizations and businesses looking to increase productivity through psychological principles. An organizational psychologist would come into the picture to study productivity trends, management style, and employee morale to get an understanding of a company. Next, strategic recommendations are given for how to make improvements using techniques for motivation, cooperation, and productivity.
• Sports psychologists are experts at understanding how performance is impacted by both psychological and physical factors. This multifaceted specialty requires an understanding of the relationships between physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, and psychology. Sports psychologists often work with coaches and trainers to create comprehensive plans for individual athletes and teams. They are often employed by sports teams, gyms, high schools, and universities.

A psychologist’s training and skills are tested every day on the job! The rewarding part is that all of these roles allow psychology professionals to see the impact of their work.

Psychology Licensing and Certification

Yes, you should become very familiar with the various licensing and accreditation bodies once you get deeper into your pursuit of becoming a working, licensed psychologist. It’s important to take licensing and certification seriously because your ability to legally act and speak as a psychologist depends on them!

• The American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) is what you might call the primary certifying body for professional psychologists in the United States. This certification shows a psychologist is credible and can be taken seriously. In addition, this certification is essentially a default requirement for being employed or representing yourself as a psychologist.
• The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) oversees standards for the licensing and certification of all psychologists throughout both the United States and Canada. Yes, every single practicing psychologist in both countries needs to meet the association’s standards before being allowed to formally practice in their field. The ASPPB administers the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
• The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is the licensing exam developed by the ASPPB. The exam exists to certify that post-doctoral students are legally permitted to practice psychology. The ASPPB’s recommended minimum passing score is 500 out of a potential score of 800.

The bottom line is that you cannot be a practicing psychologist in the United States without having approval from the ABPP and ASPPB. Fulfilling all requirements and passing required exams are as important as graduating from a doctoral program!

It’s also worth looking into a school with regional accreditation through an organization recognized by CHEA.org .

Choosing Between a PhD in Psychology or a PsyD Degree

It’s time to get serious about making that hard choice between a PhD and PsyD. Choosing as early as possible can help you to narrow down your school search and get all of your paperwork in. Let’s look at the requirements for each program.

• A dissertation is required.
• Lower acceptance rate (approximately 15 percent).
• More funding, stipends, and support are generally provided by institutions.
• Generally requires 90 to 120 credit hours.
• A dissertation isn’t always required.
• Higher acceptance rate (approximately 40 percent).
• No special stipends are generally given to PsyD candidates apart from standard FAFSA
• Generally requires 70 to 114 credit hours.

It can seem that a PsyD is easier to obtain at first glance. However, it’s more important to focus on which type of program is going to provide you with the preparation and training you need to be able to contribute to your chosen field of expertise.

It’s not that a PhD is more difficult to obtain. What we’re really looking at is the fact that a PhD simply requires candidates to dive into research in a more specific way than clinically minded PsyD candidates.

Yes, it does typically take less time to obtain a PsyD. This may make this degree path more attractive to you if you’re interested in getting into your field as quickly as possible.

PsyD vs PhD Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for PsyD and PhD candidates are similar. However, they are not interchangeable. It is typically much more difficult to be accepted into a PhD program than a PsyD program. The main reason is that PhD programs accept a fraction of the candidates.

Actual admissions requirements vary by school. However, many of the requirements are universal across all institutions. Here’s a peek at what you’ll probably need to prepare.

• A bachelor’s degree
• Transcripts from all previous universities attended
• Letters of recommendation
• A minimum undergraduate GPA (varies by school)
• Personal essay
• GRE scores (varies by school)
• A bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in a related field
• A minimum undergraduate GPA (typically 3.0)

What’s the Difference in PsyD vs. PhD reputation?

Both are usually highly respected. A PhD is typically viewed as a research-oriented degree.

A PsyD is typically viewed as an appropriate degree for someone with clinical aspirations.

What Jobs Can I Get With a Doctoral Degree in Psychology?

A variety of clinical and research positions are available to professionals with doctoral degrees in psychology.

The list includes psychologists, psychology researchers, school psychologists, sports psychologists, organizational psychologists, and forensic psychologists.

What is a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)?

A PsyD is a professional doctoral degree that is designed to prepare graduates for careers in clinical settings.

Graduates often take leadership roles in institutions that diagnose and support mental health.

What is a PhD in Psychology?

A psychology PhD is a doctor of philosophy in the field of psychology.

The rigorous training and research involved in this program is designed to prepare a student to work in clinical, research, and academic settings.

Should I Continue With a Graduate Psychology Degree Program?

A graduate psychology degree program can greatly expand your career prospects. This may be a worthwhile pursuit if your goal is to become a respected expert in your field.

Getting an additional degree may enable you to go from “support” roles to leadership roles in the field of psychology.

What are the PsyD Requirements to Graduate?

You will need to complete all of the required credit hours. This typically ranges from 70 to 114 total hours. In addition, you may be required to complete a dissertation.

Most PsyD programs require an internship or practicum to provide hands-on experience.

What are the PhD in Psychology Requirements to Graduate?

It will be necessary to complete all credit hours required by your program. This may be as many as 120 credit hours for a PhD program.

You will also need to complete a dissertation related to the specialty you’re pursuing.

What are Key Differences Between a PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Choosing between a PhD and PsyD in clinical psychology comes down to a choice of research versus hands-on application.

Someone who is interested in research or academic pursuits is probably better suited for a PhD. Someone looking to practice in a clinical setting that relies on one-on-one interactions with patients is probably better suited for a PsyD.

That’s not to say that there’s no overlap. Yes, a person with a PhD can fulfill roles that require clinical expertise. Additionally, graduates of PsyD programs do sometimes end up in research roles.

Getting Your PsyD or PhD Online

Can you really dive into the human psyche on a doctoral level from home? Yes, many colleges and universities now provide doctoral programs in psychology that can be completed remotely.

Both PsyD and PhD programs usually require heavy reading and research. That means that you’ll probably be doing a lot of self-guided study as you pursue your online psych degree . This is one of the reasons why a doctorate in this field may actually be ideal for a syllabus comprised of online coursework.

An PhD or PsyD programs online can balance the self-guided nature of doctorate-level psychology studies with the expertise and guidance of trained, qualified professors in the field.

It may be necessary to complete hands-on training in a clinical setting as part of your degree requirements. This is something that colleges and universities can assist you with once you enter into a doctorate program. It’s possible that you’ll be able to complete clinical work that satisfies your degree requirement locally.

Great minds are interested in studying minds! You may be a perfect fit for an online PsyD or PhD program. Find a school that will help you make big contributions to the field of psychology to get on the perfect degree path.

Clinical Psychology

Mission statement.

Our mission is to advance knowledge that promotes psychological well-being and reduces the burden of mental illness and problems in living and to develop leading clinical scientists whose skills and knowledge will have a substantial impact on the field of psychology and the lives of those in need. Our faculty and graduate students promote critical thinking, innovation, and discovery, and strive to be leaders in their field, engaging in and influencing research, practice, policy, and education. Our pursuit of these goals is guided by the values of collaboration, mutual respect, and fairness, our commitment to diversity, and the highest ethical standards.

Information about the Clinical Psychology Graduate Major

UCLA’s Clinical Psychology program is one of the largest, most selective, and most highly regarded in the country and aims to produce future faculty, researchers, and leaders in clinical science, who influence research, policy development, and practice. Clinical science is a field of psychology that strives to generate and disseminate the best possible knowledge, whether basic or applied, to reduce suffering and to advance public health and wellness. Rather than viewing research and intervention as separable, clinical science construes these activities as part of a single, broad domain of expertise and action. Students in the program are immersed in an empirical, research-based approach to clinical training. This, in turn, informs their research endeavors with a strong understanding of associated psychological phenomena. The UCLA Clinical Science Training Programs employs rigorous methods and theories from multiple perspectives, in the context of human diversity. Our goal is to develop the next generation of clinical scientists who will advance and share knowledge related to the origins, development, assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental health problems.

Admissions decisions are based on applicants’ research interests and experiences, formal coursework in psychology and associated fields, academic performance, letters of recommendation, dedication to and suitability for a career as a clinical scientist, program fit, and contributions to an intellectually rich, diverse class. Once admitted, students engage with faculty in research activities addressing critical issues that impact psychological well-being and the burden of mental illness, using a wide range of approaches and at varying levels of analysis. Their integrated training is facilitated by on-campus resources including the departmental Psychology Clinic, the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the David Geffen School of Medicine.

Our program philosophy is embodied in, and our goals are achieved through, a series of training activities that prepare students for increasingly complex, demanding, and independent roles as clinical scientists. These training activities expose students to the reciprocal relationship between scientific research and provision of clinical services, and to various systems and methods of intervention, assessment, and other clinical services with demographically and clinically diverse populations. The curriculum is designed to produce scientifically-minded scholars who are well-trained in research and practice, who use data to develop and refine the knowledge base in their field, and who bring a reasoned empirical perspective to positions of leadership in research and service delivery.

The program’s individualized supervision of each student in integrated research and practice roles provides considerable flexibility. Within the parameters set by faculty interests and practicum resources, there are specializations in child psychopathology and treatment, cognitive-behavior therapy, clinical assessment, adult psychopathology and treatment, family processes, assessment and intervention with distressed couples, community psychology, stress and coping, cognitive and affective neuroscience, minority mental health, and health psychology and behavioral medicine. The faculty and other research resources of the Department make possible an intensive concentration in particular areas of clinical psychology, while at the same time ensuring breadth of training.

Clinical psychology at UCLA is a six-year program including a full-time one-year internship, at least four years of which must be completed in residence at UCLA. The curriculum in clinical psychology is based on a twelve-month academic year. The program includes a mixture of coursework, clinical practicum training, teaching, and continuous involvement in research. Many of the twenty clinical area faculty, along with numerous clinical psychologists from other campus departments, community clinics, and hospitals settings, contribute to clinical supervision.  Clinical training experiences typically include four and a half years of part-time practicum placements in the Psychology Clinic and local agencies. The required one-year full-time internship is undertaken after the student has passed the clinical qualifying examinations and the dissertation preliminary orals. The student receives the Ph.D. degree when both the dissertation and an approved internship are completed.

Accreditation

PCSAS – Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at UCLA was accredited in 2012 by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS). PCSAS was created to promote science-centered education and training in clinical psychology, to increase the quality and quantity of clinical scientists contributing to the advancement of public health, and to enhance the scientific knowledge base for mental and behavioral health care. The UCLA program is deeply committed to these goals and proud to be a member of the PCSAS Founder’s Circle and one of the group of programs accredited by PCSAS.  (Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System, 1800 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20036-1218. Telephone: 301-455-8046). Website:  https://www.pcsas.org

APA CoA – American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation

The Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology at UCLA has been accredited by the American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation since 1949. (Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street NE. Washington, DC 20002-4242. Telephone:  202-336-5979 .) Website:  http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/

Future Accreditation Plans:  

Against the backdrop of distressing evidence that mental health problems are increasingly prevalent and burdensome, the field of psychological clinical science must think innovatively to address the unmet mental health needs of vulnerable populations. UCLA’s clinical psychology program remains committed to training clinical psychological scientists who will become leaders in research, dissemination, and implementation of knowledge, policy development, and evidence-based clinical practice. This commitment is firmly rooted in our overall mission of promoting equity and inclusion, adhering to ethical standards, and developing collaborations in all aspects of clinical psychology.

Increasingly, we believe that significant aspects of the academic and clinical-service requirements of accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) obstruct our training mission. Too often, APA requirements limit our ability to flexibly adapt our program to evolving scientific evidence, student needs, and global trends in mental health. Like many other top clinical science doctoral programs, we see our longstanding accreditation by the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) as better aligned with our core values, including advancement of scientifically-based training.

Accordingly, we are unlikely to seek renewal of our program’s accreditation by APA, which is set to expire in 2028. The ultimate decision about re-accreditation will be made with the best interests and well-being of current and future students in our program in mind. To that end, we will continue to monitor important criteria that will determine the career prospects of students completing a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from programs accredited only by PCSAS. For example, we are working to understand the potential implications for securing excellent predoctoral internships and eligibility for professional licensure across jurisdictions in North America. Although the UCLA clinical psychology program has no direct influence over these external organizations, we are excited to continue to work to shape this evolving training landscape with the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (APCS) and leaders from other clinical science programs.

Our ongoing monitoring of trends in clinical psychology training is encouraging for PCSAS-accredited programs. However, evolving circumstances could result in our program changing its opinion with respect to seeking APA re-accreditation in the future. In the spirit of transparency and empowering potential applicants to make informed choices for their own professional development, we are pleased to share our thinking on these important issues.

Notice to Students re: Professional Licensure and Certification

University of California programs for professions that require licensure or certification are intended to prepare the student for California licensure and certification requirements. Admission into programs for professions that require licensure and certification does not guarantee that students will obtain a license or certificate. Licensure and certification requirements are set by agencies that are not controlled by or affiliated with the University of California and licensure and certification requirements can change at any time.

The University of California has not determined whether its programs meet other states’ educational or professional requirements for licensure and certification. Students planning to pursue licensure or certification in other states are responsible for determining whether, if they complete a University of California program, they will meet their state’s requirements for licensure or certification. This disclosure is made pursuant to 34 CFR §668.43(a)(5)(v)(C).

NOTE:  Although the UCLA Clinical Psychology Program is not designed to ensure license eligibility, the majority of our graduates do go on to become professionally licensed.  For more information, please see  https://www.ucop.edu/institutional-research-academic-planning/content-analysis/academic-planning/licensure-and-certification-disclosures.html .

Clinical Program Policy on Diversity-Related Training 

In light of our guiding values of collaboration, respect, and fairness, this statement is to inform prospective and current trainees, faculty, and supervisors, as well as the public, that our trainees are required to (a) attain an understanding of cultural and individual diversity as related to both the science and practice of psychology and (b) provide competent and ethical services to diverse individuals.  Our primary consideration is always the welfare of the client.  Should such a conflict arise in which the trainee’s beliefs, values, worldview, or culture limits their ability to meet this requirement, as determined by either the student or the supervisor, it should be reported to the Clinic and Placements Committee, either directly or through a supervisor or clinical area faculty member.  The Committee will take a developmental view, such that if the competency to deliver services cannot be sufficiently developed in time to protect and serve a potentially impacted client, the committee will (a) consider a reassignment of the client so as to protect the client’s immediate interests, and (b) request from the student a plan to reach the above-stated competencies, to be developed and implemented in consultation with both the trainee’s supervisor and the Clinic Director.  There should be no reasonable expectation of a trainee being exempted from having clients with any particular background or characteristics assigned to them for the duration of their training.

Clinical Program Grievance Policies & Procedures

Unfortunately, conflicts between students and faculty or with other students will occur, and the following policies and procedures are provided in an effort to achieve the best solution. The first step in addressing these conflicts is for the student to consult with their academic advisor. If this option is not feasible (e.g. the conflict is with the advisor) or the conflict is not resolved to their satisfaction, then the issue should be brought to the attention of the Director of Clinical Training. If in the unlikely event that an effective solution is not achieved at this level, then the student has the option of consulting with the Department’s Vice Chair for Graduate Studies. Students also have the option of seeking assistance from the campus Office of Ombuds Services and the Office of the Dean of Students. It is expected that all such conflicts are to be addressed first within the program, then within the Department, before seeking a resolution outside of the department.

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• PsyD vs PhD

Is it Worth It to Get a PsyD in Psychology?

You have two doctoral options in psychology; the PsyD or Ph.D. The PsyD is a newer degree program that started in the 1970s that prioritizes clinical therapy. The Ph.D. is a  more traditional doctoral degree that focuses more on teaching skills and research at the university level.

Until around 1970, the Ph.D. was the most common choice for clinical psychologists. But today, there are approximately 100 PsyD programs accredited by the American Psychological Association in the US. A PsyD degree fulfills the requirements to become a licensed clinical psychologist in all 50 states.

If you have not made up your mind on which doctoral degree to pursue, below are some expert reasons that getting a PsyD in psychology is worth it:

#1 More Focus on Clinical Practice

The PsyD places more focus on clinical practice compared to most Ph.D. programs. PsyD students use theoretical frameworks in their daily psychotherapy sessions.

On the other hand, the Ph.D. stresses research methods that are used to come up with cognition and behavior theories.

SEE ALSO: PsyD vs PhD

There may be some overlay in the course structure, but the PsyD and Ph.D. programs have different foci. Being able to produce psychological research is not a common goal in PsyD programs.

Classes usually stress clinical skills development to provide students with the expertise they need to be good clinical or counseling psychologists.

#2 More Clinical Exposure in Years 1 and 2

The PsyD degree focuses more on practice than research, so your curriculum in the field starts sooner. You may begin your clinical experience in a PsyD program as soon as your first semester. Ph.D. students typically spend their first year studying their core research courses.

This is why a PsyD program is usually better at giving the student more clinical practice-based knowledge. These students also receive more clinical therapeutic exposure before they graduate. Most PsyD programs have 800 to 1,000 hours of fieldwork before graduation. Also, students must complete a one year, full-time internship in the last year of their doctoral program.

#3 Shorter Programs

The Ph.D. follows a scientist-practitioner model, so students perform hands-on research with humans. The PsyD has a scholar-practitioner model with a clinical orientation that emphasizes clinical experience over research or laboratory work.

Therefore, PsyD programs have shorter completion times than Ph.D. programs. Most PsyD programs can be completed in as few as four years, while a Ph.D. program takes up to six years. If your goal is to enter clinical practice, you will get there faster with a PsyD.

SEE ALSO: List of Best 3 Year PsyD Programs to Consider

Some universities offer a five-year combined Master of Science in Psychology/PsyD program, too.

Shorter completion time in a PsyD program also means lower tuition payments.

#4 More PsyD Programs Available

The PsyD has enjoyed a resurgence in the last 20 years, and there are many online and on-campus programs available across the country. If you earn your Psy.D. online, you can complete your coursework remotely and participate in your clinical work and internship in your local area.

SEE ALSO: Best APA Accredited PsyD Programs

If there ever was any stigma surrounding the PsyD, most of this is gone because employers understand that one degree is not better than the other. Most doctoral-level psychology employers accept professionals with either degree.

The difference between the PsyD and Ph.D. has much more to do with your personal goals than degree quality.

#5 Dissertation May Be Optional

All Ph.D. in psychology programs require a dissertation. This massive academic document is usually 200 or more pages long and requires more than a year of research and writing. While the thesis is an essential part of the Ph.D. process, many PsyD programs do not need it; after all, the focus of the degree is clinical practice, not research.

SEE ALSO: 9 Tips for Your PsyD Dissertation

Some PsyD programs do require a writing project, but it may be about what they learned from their clinical rotations. A capstone project may include psychological case studies, focus groups, clinical trials, or consulting work.

#5 Similar Salaries and Job Demand

The PsyD degree has become more accepted by employers over the decades. Today, many employers view them as equal degrees if you intend to secure a job as a clinical or counseling psychologist.

SEE ALSO: Clinical Psychologist Salary Outlook

Their equivalence today means that the median salary for both doctoral degrees is often the same. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median wage for psychologists was $80,370 in 2019, and the top 10% with doctoral degrees and the most experience made more than $132,000.

Job demand for psychologists with either doctoral degree is healthy, too. BLS reports job demand for clinical and counseling psychologists will rise by 14% by 2028.

#6 More Clinical Psychology Concentrations

As of 2020, the APA recognizes 17 specialties for clinical psychology practice. A PsyD provides the student with more chances to focus on one of these concentrations.

The curricula for most PsyD programs tailor the classes to fit these specialties. For instance, a PsyD focused on forensic psychology trains students to perform mental health screenings in prisons. Specialization in industrial and organizational psychology prepares the student for improving company work climates and ensuring the best workers are hired for the right jobs.

#7 Dual Degree Program Options

Most Ph.D. programs do not allow you to add another degree. But a PsyD major can sometimes combine their degree with a J.D., for example, so they can work in forensic psychology as a licensed attorney.

Also, there are PsyD/MBA programs that are perfect for executive leadership roles in clinical practices.

Ask The Experts

We asked the experts at Quora.com about worth it is in getting a PsyD program without a psychology background. Here is what we learned:

• “You have a greater likelihood of being admitted to a PsyD program than to a Ph.D. program. However, you will probably have less of a chance of being admitted than a student who is a psychology major. You can improve your chances by making sure you take courses that correspond to the topics tested on the Psychology GRE and do well on it. Getting some clinical experience where you can demonstrate some leadership abilities will help.” – Linda Buyer, Ph.D., Cognitive Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago .

We also asked if it is better to choose a PsyD or Ph.D.:

• “Earning a Ph.D. matters if you are interested in research and teaching. But if you want a clinical career, the PsyD is a good choice. A PsyD. does not require empirical research, and the Ph.D. does in the doctoral dissertation.” – Bruce Kugler, Ph.D., retired psychologist .
• “PsyD is a practitioner’s credential like the M.D. Ph.D. is the academic credential, aimed at research and teaching. PsyD study focuses heavily on therapeutic practice rather than some other areas of psych such as cognition, neuropsychology, social psychology, etc.” – Margaret MaDonald, trained as a clinical psychologist at the doctoral level .

The PsyD and Ph.D. are worthwhile degrees that require intense commitment in grad school. The PsyD can often be completed in only four years and provides you with the skills and experience to work as a clinical psychologist. It is a substantial investment in your education and career if your passion is to become a licensed, practicing psychologist.

• Doctoral Degrees in Psychology. Accessed at https://www.apa.org/ed/precollege/psn/2016/01/doctoral-degrees
• Online Psychology Degrees. Accessed at https://www.online-psychology-degrees.org/list-articles/five-benefits-of-pursuing-a-psyd-rather-than-a-phd-in-psychology/
• Is a PsyD for You? Accessed at https://www.thoughtco.com/is-a-psyd-for-you-1686409
• Psychologist Salary and Job Demand. Accessed at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm

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Psy.D. In Clinical Psychology

Welcome to the Clinical Psychology Psy.D. Program at Florida Institute of Technology. The program at Florida Tech that leads to a Psy.D. in clinical psychology is accredited by the American Psychological Association* and offers students training based on a practitioner-scholar model that prepares students for entry-level positions as clinical psychologists.  To achieve that goal, we are committed to training students with strong and continually developing clinical competencies, whose clinical work is informed by the scientific and theoretical knowledge base of the discipline of psychology, and whose graduates respect and value cultural and individual difference, and who maintain the highest professional principles and standards.

What Makes Florida Tech's Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology Stand Out?

• Accredited by the American Psychological Association* since 1983
• Opportunities for advanced coursework and practica in emphasis areas: Neuropsychology, Child/Family, Integrated Behavioral Health, and Forensic.
• In-depth training in psychological assessment and integrated psychodiagnostics
• Curriculum that addresses current trends in psychology including Integrated Behavioral Health Care, Clinical Neuropsychology, Assessment, Trauma and Child Psychology
• On-site practicum training facility
• A large network of community-based practicum sites offering many different training opportunities
• Good student-to-faculty ratio, with annual cohorts of approximately 20
• Colleague-in-training atmosphere
• Excellent internship match rate
• Flat-rate tuition program
• Warm climate, great location, close to beaches
• Relatively low cost of living, ample and reasonably priced housing available off campus

Our program leading to a Psy.D in Clinical Psychology trains students to become practicing clinical psychologists with core competencies in relational/clinical skills, comprehensive psychological assessment, clinical treatment interventions, research and evaluation skills, consultation and education, management and supervision, and diversity issues.

We have several opportunities for advanced course work. These areas are:  

• Family/Child Psychology
• Forensic Psychology
• Clinical Neuropsychology
• Integrated Behavioral Healthcare/Health Psychology  

Admission Requirements

An applicant must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution of higher learning. Although it is not necessary for the major area to have been psychology, it is required that those entering without a previous degree in psychology will have completed at least 18 credit hours of psychology coursework at the time of application. These courses must have been taken in a department of psychology, and should include statistics, personality theory, abnormal psychology, learning, physiological psychology and social psychology.

All application materials must be received by December 1 of each year.

Visit the graduate admissions information page for all the information you need to apply to the program. Admissions applications must include transcripts, GRE general test scores, a personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a resume or CV.

Students we will consider for admission will receive an invitation approximately two weeks prior to our Interview Day, typically held in February. Attendance at Interview Day is VERY strongly recommended.

*Questions related to the program's accredited status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation:

Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st Street, NE Washington, DC 20002

Phone: (202) 336-5979 Email: [email protected] Web: www.apa.org/ed/accreditation

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Clinical Psychology, Psy.D

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Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data

Clinical Psychology Information

Info Session: Funding a Clinical Doctoral Degree

2023-2024 PsyD Program Addendum

2023-2024 SOP Grad Handbook

Jack N. Averitt College of Graduate Studies

Doctor of Clinical Psychology, Psy.D.

About the program.

Format : In person on the Statesboro Campus Credit Hours : 114-124 Entry Term : Fall

The APA-accredited doctorate program in clinical psychology at Georgia Southern University (GS) is a full time, day program offering a course of study leading to the Doctor of Clinical Psychology degree. The program’s curriculum prepares graduates for the practice of psychology with a special focus on practice in rural areas. Coursework and training prepare students for licensure as a psychologist, with an emphasis on educating emerging psychologists for the underserved areas in the state of Georgia and adjacent regions in the Southeast.

The Psy.D. program originated from a longstanding and dire need for licensed psychologists in rural, underserved areas of the United States, most specifically in the rural south. This mission is consistent with Georgia Southern University’s commitment to serve the needs of the southeastern region of the country. The program trains students according to the practitioner-scholar model. Students are taught to become generalists who will be effective in the delivery of psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and psychological consultation services in rural areas. Consistent with the framework of a generalist approach, the curriculum, beginning with foundational courses, strives to create and maintain a dynamic and integrative program, emphasizing behavioral, cognitive, existential, family systems, humanistic, and psychodynamic orientations.

The program is designed to foster the intrapersonal and professional development of students. This process is aimed at helping the students cultivate balance within their personal and professional growth. In addition to academic requirements, students are encouraged to take initiative and responsibility for personal and professional growth through independent readings, interaction with fellow students and faculty, attendance at colloquia, and additional elective research and practica opportunities. The PsyD is a professional degree, and focuses on the development of applied practice skills. Because the program is an integral part of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences in a regional university, doctoral students engage in all aspects of scholarly inquiry, including substantive qualitative and quantitative research, and professional membership and discourse in state, regional, and national organizations.

Ready to Apply?

Request information, visit campus, or, you can :, regular admission requirements.

A committee of faculty will determine admission based on the following:

• Grade Point Average (GPA): A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.30 is required for consideration. The average undergraduate GPA of successful applicants for the Fall 2022 class was 3.76 (on a 4.0 scale).
• A minimum grade of B in the following undergraduate courses: Psychological Statistics, Research Design, Abnormal Psychology
• Record of having taken at least two of the following courses: Personality, Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Learning and/or Cognition, Health Psychology, Tests and Measurement, Theories of Psychotherapy, Psychology of Substance Abuse.
• Three letters of recommendation from former professors or appropriate employers/advisors.
• A written statement of professional goals. Please describe why you want to pursue doctoral training in clinical psychology. Also, describe how Georgia Southern University’s program is a good fit. Finally, please list three (3) Statesboro campus psychology faculty whose research interests are a match to your own. Of these three, please include at least one clinical faculty member and one faculty member who is not clinical.  This statement should be 500 words or less in length.
• A current Curriculum Vitae or Resume.
• Optional: Submission of a writing sample of past work provides an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, tone, and style. The sample should be no longer than two double-spaced pages. Consider submitting an excerpt or passage from a research paper or writing assignment for class, a manuscript, or other relevant works.

Based on a review of the application materials, the Admissions Committee will select top candidates for an on-campus interview. Interviews are mandatory for admission into the program. The Admissions Committee will contact top candidates with details regarding on-campus interview dates and procedures.

The PsyD program seeks a diverse applicant pool. We welcome applications from under-represented ethnic minorities, women, applicants with disabilities, first-generation college graduates, and non-traditional students.

*International transcripts must be evaluated by a NACES accredited evaluation service  and must be a course by course evaluation and include a GPA. ( www.naces.org )

December 15 *

Does not admit

*The application and all ​​required documents listed on the “admissions requirements” tab​ for the program must be received by the deadline.  If all required documents are not received by the deadline your application will not be considered for admission.

Program Contact Information

C. Thresa Yancey, Ph.D. Director of Clinical Training, Professor of Psychology [email protected] 912-478-5704

Questions related to the program’s accreditation status should be directed to the Commission on Accreditation: Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation American Psychological Association 750 1st St., NE, Washington, DC 20002 202-336-5979 [email protected] APA Accreditation Site

Last updated: 2/9/2024

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Office of Graduate Admissions Physical Address: 261 Forest Drive PO Box 8113 Statesboro, GA 30460 Georgia Southern University Phone: 912-478-5384 Fax: 912-478-0740 gradadmissions @georgiasouthern.edu

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Woman who left very tall brother in economy class while she took first class was not wrong: Reddit users

The woman, who is 5'1, did not feel guilty about leaving her 6'6 brother in economy class as a psychologist offers fresh insight.

Fox News Flash top headlines for April 27

Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

A woman on Reddit who says she was alienated and given the cold shoulder by her family after she accepted a free first-class upgrade on a vacation did nothing wrong, Reddit users said, weighing in on her drama. 

Reddit user "Abbyissostupid" told Reddit's "Am I the A--hole" (AITA) subreddit about her dilemma in a post on Friday, April 26, titled, "AITA for not letting my 6'6" brother have the free first-class upgrade the airline gave me on our 12-hour flight?" 

In the post, the woman said she's currently on a family trip in Hawaii to celebrate her father's recent retirement, and that he paid for the entire family to attend. 

WOMAN WHO BANS ALCOHOL FROM HER HOME IS NOT WRONG, SAYS THERAPIST, REDDIT USERS

"There are six of us but my brother and I live in the same part of the country," she said — so the two of them were on the same flight to Hawaii .  

"I guess it's relevant to say I am 5'1" and my brother is 6'6," she wrote. 

A frequent traveler for work, she said she has "quite a bit of status with the airline for which my dad bought our tickets."

A woman said her family was angry with her after she accepted a free upgrade to first class while leaving her much taller brother behind in coach.  (iStock)

As she and her brother were boarding the plane, she was approached by a flight attendant and told that a spot in first class had become available. 

The flight attendant "whispered that they had a first-class passenger not show up, and they needed the coach seat to accommodate a standby passenger," said Abbyissostupid. 

"She said I had by far the most status of anyone on the plane, so they were willing to move me to first class for free." 

"I had a nice flight."

The woman happily accepted the upgrade, she said, and "took it in a heartbeat." 

"I told my brother I'd see him in 12 hours and let me know if he wanted any food or drink and I grabbed my stuff and moved," she said. 

"Needless to say, I had a nice flight."

REDDIT USER ACCUSED OF SPOILING HER YOUNG SON BY ASKING FOR AN INVITE TO GIRLS-ONLY EVENT

Her brother, however, was quite upset that she did not give him the upgrade instead, as he is much taller and presumably could've used the extra legroom to be more comfortable. 

After the plane landed, her brother refused to speak to her for the entire ride to their hotel, she said — and then told her family that she had been upgraded. 

The woman and her family were on a trip to Hawaii celebrating her father's retirement. Her father, she said, paid for the entire trip.  (iStock)

"We had a nice hello with the rest of the family, but after I got down from my shower my mom took me aside and said what I did ‘was awful,’" said Abbyissostupid.  

Confused, the woman said she asked her mother what she was talking about — "and she said that I should have given my brother the seat."

The Reddit writer added, "I thought that would be the end of it, but all five of my siblings and my parents are upset with me and the vacation is off to a very rough start," she said. 

WOMAN CANCELS ANNIVERSARY TRIP AFTER HUSBAND DESTROYS HER TERRARIUM: 'PRIDE AND JOY'

Her siblings even told their children to avoid her for not being a loyal family member, the woman said.

"My sister said, ‘No, they only like to play with people who give a s--- about their family — what were you thinking?’" wrote Abbyissostupid. 

When the woman pointed out that her brother never even asked for an upgrade, the sister replied that he should not have had to — and that she should have automatically given her brother the upgrade for his comfort. 

The woman's much taller brother spent the flight in coach, where he was apparently very uncomfortable during the trip.  (iStock)

"I've been by myself since brunch and not having much fun. AITA?" asked Abbyissostupid of others on Reddit. 

In an update to the post after others had commented, Abbyissostupid added that her family is still angry at her, but to varying degrees — and that she's been spending time instead with a friend who lives in Hawaii. 

REDDIT USER WHO LEFT HER DRUNK HUSBAND BEHIND AT AIRPORT GETS SUPPORT FROM OTHERS: ‘HAS A PROBLEM’ 

"So my vacation will be great no matter what," said Abbyissostupid. "But reading your comments really gave me confidence to not give a crap (or try to at least!). Thank you." 

Fox News Digital reached out to Abbyissostupid for further updates — and to a relationship expert for advice on the topic. 

‘People make poor decisions all the time’

Dr. Kathy Nickerson, PhD, a clinical psychologist based in California, said in an email to Fox News Digital on Saturday afternoon, "It would have been nice for the [Reddit writer] to give her brother the upgrade because coach is far less comfortable for someone who is 6'6" than 5'1". However, I can understand that since the flight attendant whispered in her ear, [the woman] might have thought she needed to be discreet and not offer it to her brother."

WOMAN CALLED A 'BAD PARENT' BY HER OWN FOLKS IS DEFENDED ON REDDIT FOR KEEPING HER FAMILY TOGETHER

Nickerson added, "If we could go back in time, I would have whispered in [the woman's] ear: 'Are you OK here? I know it is not first class, but can you deal with this and let your brother go instead? Seems like he's pretty uncomfortable.'"

"The best thing to do is apologize to her brother and express understanding to her family."

She also said it would have been "a thoughtful, loving, kind gesture" for the woman to offer the first-class seat to her brother.

Said Nickerson, "Now that it is done, the best thing to do is apologize to her brother and express understanding to her family. It's reasonable for everyone to feel the way they do; it's not so reasonable to ruin the family vacation because of it."

A stewardess for a British airline claims first-class passengers pay the flight attendants for sex. (iStock)

She noted that in her experience, "People make poor decisions all the time. People can be selfish and thoughtless sometimes. Everyone deserves compassion and a chance to make amends. Having everyone in the family berate and criticize the [woman] is not helpful."

Rather, she said, "it creates an emotionally unsafe environment , which only encourages more harmful behavior."

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Nickerson said she'd advise "a family meeting, where they can apologize for the hurtful choices, all around — and express some understanding for the others' feelings and agree to do better next time, then move on. Let's forgive each other, learn from this and enjoy our trip."

Most commenters on Reddit, however, had a very different point of view.

On the AITA subreddit, people can reply to posts and indicate the poster is "NTA" ("Not the A--hole"), "YTA" ("You're the A--hole"), "NAH" ("No A--holes Here") or "ESH" ("Everyone Sucks Here").

Users can "upvote" responses they think are helpful and "downvote" ones that are not. 

Reddit users largely assured the woman that she did not do anything wrong by accepting the upgrade to first class for herself — and that her family was blowing things out of proportion.  (iStock)

Most users said that the woman was "NTA" for taking the upgrade — and that the airline likely would not have allowed her to give it to her brother, even if she wanted to, they said. 

"Had something happen to me years ago on Air Canada. Vancouver to Toronto red eye. Flying with adult daughter and got tagged for upgrade," said Reddit user "BetAlternative8397" in the top-upvoted comment. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The user continued, "I asked about letting her fly upfront instead and was told the seat is only available to the status holder. I was exhausted from a week working away, so I took it," the person added. 

"No reason you should have turned it down."

The same individual noted, "No one shamed me for it" and said that Abbyissostupid's brother was rude and jealous. 

"NTA, but you sure have a family of them," said Reddit user "Fearless_Ad1685" in another top comment. 

"Your status got you the offer. If you declined it, it wouldn't have gone to your brother anyway," Fearless_Ad1685 continued. 

"No reason you should have turned it down just to stay in coach with your brother."

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle .

Christine Rousselle is a lifestyle reporter with Fox News Digital.

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Munroe-Meyer

Cara Solness, PhD

•   Senior Leadership
•   Grant Leadership
•   Faculty
•   Care Coordination
•   Caring for Champions
•   Community Engagement
•   Education and Child Development
•   Family Care Enhancement Project
•   Genetic Medicine
•   integrated Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders
•   Occupational Therapy
•   Outpatient Clinic
•   Pediatric Feeding Disorders
•   Physical Therapy
•   Psychology
•   Recreational Therapy
•   Research
•   Severe Behavior
•   Speech-Language Pathology
•   Warren G. Sanger Human Genetics Laboratory

Professional Summary

Cara Solness, PhD (they/she) is a licensed psychologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at the Munroe-Meyer Institute. Dr. Solness completed their Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at the University of Iowa, internship at the University of Iowa’s University Counseling Center and postdoctoral training at University of Colorado’s Anschutz Medical School Department of Psychiatry with a specialization in neonatal mental health, NICU psychology and perinatal mental health. Dr. Solness is a member of the National Network of NICU Psychologists (NNNP) and co-chairs the NNNP Diversity, Equity and Justice Committee (DEAJ).

Dr. Solness currently provides clinical services in the NICU at Children’s Nebraska. Dr. Solness’ research interests include interventions for non-birthing partners in the NICU, LGBTQ+ parents with NICU experiences, therapeutic alliance, group therapy and technology-delivered interventions.

• Postdoctoral Training: Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 2023
• Internship: University of Iowa Counseling Center, Iowa City, IA, 2022
• PhD: Counseling Psychology - University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 2022
• University of Iowa, Department of Psychological and Quantitative Foundations, Group Therapy
• University of Iowa, Department of Psychological and Quantitative Foundations, Introduction to Counseling Psychology
• University of Iowa, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Abnormal Psychology
• University of Iowa, SafeZone facilitator

Interests and Projects

• Interventions for non-birthing partners in the NICU
• LGBTQ+ parents with NICU experiences
• Therapeutic alliance
• Technology-delivered interventions

Publications

• Relationship Factors in Internet-Delivered Psychological Interventions for Veterans Experiencing Postpartum Depression: Qualitative Analysis - PubMed (nih.gov)   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37581917/
• Treating postpartum depression in rural veterans using internet delivered CBT: program evaluation of MomMoodBooster - PubMed (nih.gov)   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33052526/
• Solness, C. L. , Wang, K., Mitchell, A. Kivlighan, D. M. (2024). Queering Group Therapy: A Mixed Methods Study of the Effectiveness of Group Therapy for Transgender and Non-Binary Persons. [Manuscript submitted to Journal of Counseling Psychology]
• Solness, C. L., & Kivlighan, D. M. (2022). Queering group therapy: A phenomenological participatory design with transgender individuals. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice , 53 (3), 215-224. https://doi.org/10.1037/pro0000459

Professional Affiliations

• Division 17 Society of Counseling Psychology
• Division 44 Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity
• Division 54 Society of Pediatric Psychology
• Co-Chair of Diversity, Equity and Justice Committee
• APA Div 49 Diversity and Social Justice Poster Award (2023)
• University of Iowa College of Education Research Grant (2020)
• University of Iowa Graduate and Professional Student Grant (2020)

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VIEW VIRTUAL TOWN HALL PRESENTATION  

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Listen to the 2024 CoA chair provide information on the Commission’s actions in 2023.

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