“Psychology is also not just about individual treatment or therapy. We are also scientists, educators, advocates, and deeply engaged members of our communities.”
Erlanger “Earl” Turner, PhD, Tenured Associate Professor of Psychology at Pepperdine University and Director of the Race and Cultural Experiences Research Lab
Mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse are all too common. One in five adults, and 17 percent of youth, in the United States experience some form of mental illness (National Institute of Mental Health 2025). Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10- to 34-year-olds. These disorders don’t simply go away and cannot be treated alone. Each year, more than 43 percent of those who suffer from mental illness will seek treatment from professionals, such as psychologists, to overcome their mental health issues.
Psychologists are an essential part of the mental health care landscape. They hold doctoral degrees and have completed extensive studies and clinical training that give them the expertise to tackle even the most complex mental disorders. Most psychologists have a strong background in research, which allows them to think analytically within the clinical field. Job duties include evaluating patients, working in schools, writing treatment plans, and conducting psychological research.There are numerous specializations, including child psychology, sports psychology, educational leadership, and conflict resolution.
As there has been increased recognition of the importance of mental health treatment, the demand for psychologists has been steadily growing. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2025), there is anticipated to be a 6 percent growth in jobs in this field between 2024 and 2034. An aging population, increased services for veterans, and an emphasis on school counselors drive the demand for more professionals in the field. Psychologists earn a median annual salary of $102,100.
Below is an overview of the profession of psychology, including job duties, top programs, a step by step guide to entering the profession, and licensing requirements.
Meet the Expert: Erlanger “Earl” Turner, PhD
Dr. Erlanger “Earl” Turner is a tenured associate professor of psychology at Pepperdine University and director of the Race and Cultural Experiences Research Lab. His research targets mental health disparities, access to behavioral health services, and the emotional impact of race-based stress.
Dr. Turner is the author of Mental Health among African Americans and Raising Resilient Black Kids. He is also a nationally recognized media expert who has been featured by CNN, The New York Times, NPR, and more.
HealthcareDegree.com: What do you wish people understood about psychologists?
Dr. Turner: I wish more people understood that clinical psychologists do far more than just “listen to problems” or “give advice.” We are highly trained mental health professionals who integrate science, theory, and compassion to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of complex psychological issues. Our work is grounded in evidence-based practices, shaped by years of rigorous academic study, clinical training, and ongoing professional development.
Psychology is also not just about individual treatment or therapy. We are also scientists, educators, advocates, and deeply engaged members of our communities. Whether we’re conducting research, teaching future clinicians, consulting in hospitals or schools, or creating community-based interventions, our collective goal is to better understand human behavior, often in deeply nuanced and culturally informed ways, and to improve lives.
It’s important to know that clinical psychologists work with people across the lifespan and across many settings. We support children managing anxiety, adults navigating trauma, families dealing with loss, and older adults facing cognitive decline. We work in prisons, policy settings, nonprofits, universities, and more. We are not here to “fix” people, but to walk alongside them to help them heal, grow, and reclaim their sense of agency.
As a first-generation college student, I know how critical it is to have psychologists who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. I wish people better understood just how expansive and vital the field of psychology truly is. We’re not all in private practice, and that diversity of roles, perspectives, and approaches is one of our greatest strengths.
HealthcareDegree.com: What advice would you give to aspiring psychologists?
Dr. Turner: First, know that your background matters and your lived experience is a strength. As a first-generation college student, there were times I felt like I didn’t belong in academic or clinical spaces. I sometimes questioned whether I was “enough” to be here.
But over time, I realized that my cultural background and the communities that shaped me were not barriers, but they were assets. These experiences gave me empathy, insight, and a perspective on the field of clinical psychology needed in order to truly serve diverse populations.
Second, trust the process even when it feels long or uncertain. Clinical psychology is a demanding journey filled with coursework, practicum hours, supervision, research, and licensure steps. There will be moments when you feel overwhelmed or even discouraged. However, every phase teaches you something valuable about yourself, about your future clients, and about the kind of psychologist you’re becoming. It’s important to remember that growth often happens in the most challenging parts of the path.
Third, stay curious and open. Psychology is constantly evolving. You should be willing to ask hard questions, challenge your assumptions, and learn not just from textbooks, but from your clients, your colleagues, and the communities you work with. Let humility and curiosity guide your development as a clinician and a human being.
Fourth, build your support network of mentors, peers, supervisors, and friends who will challenge you, encourage you, and walk with you through the ups and downs. You do belong in this field, even if you don’t always feel like it. And one day, when you’re in a position to do so, be that support for someone else. Representation matters, and your presence in this field can be deeply affirming for others who are still finding their way. Along my own journey, it has been great to connect with like-minded individuals and mentors who have helped me reach my professional goals.
Lastly, never lose sight of why you started. Whether your motivation is to give back, to heal what you didn’t have, or to understand the human mind more deeply you should hold on to that purpose. It will sustain you through the difficult moments and remind you that your work is not just a profession, but it’s a profound privilege to help others improve their lives.
Psychologist Specializations & Degree Types
Psychologists typically earn either a doctor of psychology (PsyD) or a doctor of philosophy in psychology (PhD) degree. PhD programs typically have more intensive research or academic focus, whereas PsyD programs are designed for those who are strictly interested in the practice of psychology without dedicating additional time to research. PsyD programs are ideal for those pursuing a clinical practice and typically take less time than a PhD.
Both PsyD and PhD psychology programs offer numerous specializations. Students can pursue studies in forensic psychology, educational leadership, mediation and conflict resolution, sport psychology, pediatrics, and quantitative psychology, among others.
Admissions Requirements for Psychologist Programs
Most psychology programs require students to have completed at least a master’s degree in psychology or a related field such as education or health sciences. However, some programs will admit students with just a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, and a master’s degree will be earned as part of the studies.
Aside from proof of an undergraduate or graduate degree by submitting official transcripts, students typically are required to submit GRE scores, letters of intent, recommendation letters, and a resume.
Psychologist Program Accreditation
There are numerous accreditation agencies for psychology programs. The most prestigious one is through the American Psychological Association (APA). However, the APA is very stringent on online or distance learning programs, so many programs have obtained regional accreditation, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
Students should ensure the program they are pursuing is accredited as that guarantees a minimum level of quality as well as provides ease when applying for licensure or certification.
On-Campus Psychologist Degree Programs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Ranked number two in the nation by US News & World Report, the clinical psychology program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the nation’s best. This program is highly competitive and only admits four to six new students out of the roughly 450 that apply each year. Most students who are successfully admitted to the program have already completed significant undergraduate clinical research projects.
As part of the program, students will complete their master’s and PhD so only a bachelor’s degree is required to apply. Students are required to attend an on-campus interview in February as part of the application process. Other requirements include GRE scores, a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
- Location: Chapel Hill, NC
- Duration: Five to six years
- Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)
University of California, Los Angeles
With an aim to produce leaders, educators, and professionals who influence policy, research, and best practices, the clinical psychology program at the University of California, Los Angeles is one of the top in the country. Ranked number one in the nation by US News & World Report (2025), this intensive program trains professionals to think critically and be innovative to improve the mental health of patients.
Through the course of their students will become scientifically minded scholars well-versed in research with the ability to apply findings to the clinical setting. The program takes six years to complete, including a one-year internship. Because students work individually with an advisor there is an opportunity for a wide variety of specializations inducing minority mental health, adult psychopathology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and many more.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Duration: Six years
- Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)
Teachers College, Columbia University
The clinical psychology program at Teachers College is one of the oldest continuously accredited programs in the U.S., combining rigorous scientific training with clinical practice. The program emphasizes integrative work in assessment, intervention, multicultural competence, and empirical research.
Admission is highly selective; applicants typically present strong research experience, often as undergraduates. The application requires GRE scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and sometimes writing samples. Interviews are conducted on campus in February or March.
- Location: New York, NY
- Duration: Approximately five years (plus a one-year internship)
- Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)
Boston University’s clinical psychology doctoral program is grounded in the clinical scientist model, integrating research and evidence-based practice. It is noted for small cohort sizes, mentorship, and close faculty-student collaboration.
Applicants are expected to submit GRE scores, transcripts, letters, and a statement of purpose. The program looks for prior research experience and strong quantitative preparation. Many students begin working in research labs immediately upon entry.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: Typically 5–6 years (including internship)
- Accreditation: APA
The Clinical and Health Psychology PhD program at UF offers a distinctive model by housing the program in a health science center context, affording access to medical, public health, and broader interdisciplinary resources.
The program adheres to the scientist-practitioner model. Applicants must submit GRE scores, undergraduate transcripts, recommendations, a statement of purpose, and often a sample of prior research work. Selected applicants are invited for on-campus interviews.
- Location: Gainesville, FL
- Duration: 5–6 years (including internship)
- Accreditation: APA
University of Massachusetts Boston
UMass Boston’s program is grounded in a scientist-practitioner-activist model, with particular focus on culturally responsive practice and serving urban and underserved populations.
Students follow a structured curriculum that includes coursework in psychopathology, cognitive and personality assessment, ethics, multicultural perspectives, and advanced statistics. Practicum placements begin in the second year, giving students supervised clinical experience in community mental health centers, hospitals, and schools. Research training culminates in a dissertation that contributes to the field.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: Around 5–6 years (including internship)
- Accreditation: APA
Suffolk’s doctoral program provides structured, cumulative training in clinical assessment, therapy, research, and professional development, rooted in the scientist-practitioner paradigm.
The curriculum blends research and clinical practice, with core courses such as Psychopathology, Psychological Assessment, Psychotherapy, Statistics, and Professional Ethics. Students also complete practica in diverse clinical settings and take specialty seminars aligned with faculty areas of expertise. The program requires a doctoral dissertation and a one-year predoctoral internship.
- Location: Boston, MA
- Duration: Typically 5–6 years
- Accreditation: APA
For students more practice-oriented, La Verne offers an APA-accredited PsyD program focused on scholar-practitioner training. The program emphasizes integration of scientific foundations and ethical clinical work in diverse populations.
Coursework spans four years and covers areas such as Clinical Interviewing, Human Development, Cognitive and Personality Assessment, Multicultural Psychology, and Professional Issues in Clinical Practice. Students complete practica beginning in the second year, moving into advanced clinical placements and ultimately a full-time internship. A doctoral project replaces the traditional dissertation, with an emphasis on applied scholarship.
- Location: La Verne, CA
- Duration: Five years (four years coursework + full-time internship year)
- Accreditation: APA
Online or Hybrid Psychologist Degree Programs
Please note that there are no online PsyD programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).
The online format of the PsyD program at Capella University allows students to complete a doctorate in psychology without having to relocate. The program has an emphasis on preparing students for state licensure by ensuring they complete all the necessary education and internship hours.
Clinical training is carried out in the students’ home community. Students are also required to travel to intensive one to two week residency programs across the country.
Typical courses students are required to take include evidence-based practice in psychology, theories of psychotherapy, and advanced psychopathology. Graduates understand how to administer psychological testing, apply interventions, and implement treatment plans.
- Location: Minneapolis, MN
- Duration: Two-and-a-half to five years
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Fielding’s APA-accredited Clinical Psychology PhD program is unique in that it is the only distributed-learning program recognized by the American Psychological Association. It offers a hybrid model combining online seminars, in-person regional seminars, and weeklong residential sessions, enabling students to remain in their local communities while completing their doctoral training.
Students take foundational and advanced courses in the science and practice of clinical psychology. Required coursework includes: history & systems of psychology; the affective, biological, cognitive, developmental, and social bases of behavior; ethics and professional standards; assessment, diagnosis, and psychopathology; psychotherapy theory and intervention; multicultural & diversity issues; statistics and quantitative methods; and research design. Clinical practica begin early, with increasing responsibility. Students also engage in research culminating in a doctoral dissertation. Specialized concentrations and therapeutic orientations are available through elective and regional/seminar-based training.
- Location: Santa Barbara, CA
- Duration: 5-6 years
- Accreditation: APA
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist?
After graduating from high school, it takes 10 to 12 years (or more) to obtain a PsyD or PhD in psychology. The length of study varies based on if the graduate program requires a master’s degree or if the master’s degree is completed en route to a doctorate. Most programs have a clinical or residency component requirement included in the course of study.
How To Become a Psychologist – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)
Prior to enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program, students will need to graduate from high school or obtain a GED. If a career in psychology is a goal, students should take courses in high school to prepare for further studies, including health, psychology, biology, and English.
Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology (Four Years)
Graduate psychology programs require that students have already completed a bachelor’s degree. Students should choose psychology as a major or a closely related field such as health science, sociology, anthropology, or even geography. Top programs in the country look for students who have completed clinical research as part of their undergraduate studies, so students who wish to gain a competitive advantage should also focus on lab courses.
Step 3: Complete a Master’s degree in Psychology (Two Years, Optional)
As some doctoral programs require completing a master’s degree before enrolling, this may be a necessary step towards becoming a psychologist. Typical master’s programs include psychology, education, sociology, and health sciences. These programs can take anywhere from one to two years to complete.
Step 4: Obtain a Doctorate in Psychology (Four to Seven Years)
Students can pursue either a PsyD or PhD in psychology to enter this career. While some programs require a master’s degree, there are many programs that you can pursue a doctorate degree having just completed a bachelor’s degree. Students can choose from numerous specializations such as educational leadership, child psychology, and even sports psychology. As part of their studies, students will often be required to complete clinical rotations or internships to gain the experience required to apply for licensure.
Step 5: Complete Clinical Hours (Timelines Vary)
Depending on state requirements, aspiring professionals may need to complete additional supervised clinical hours prior to applying for licensure. Hour requirements vary based on the state.
Step 6: Pass Required Exams (Timelines Vary)
All states require examination in order to work as a psychologist. All states require the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) and many states require a jurisprudence exam as well.
Step 7: Apply for Licensure (Timelines Vary)
Once all the state licensure requirements have been met, an application for licensure can be submitted. Professionals will need to apply to their state board and submit all the evidence required.
What Do Psychologists Do?
Psychology work is extremely varied based on the field and specialization chosen. Overall, psychologists work to improve the mental health of individuals. This is done in numerous ways, including therapy, research, or working within organizations to improve employee well-being. Job duties can include:
- Conducting psychological research
- Assessing patient well-being through one-on-one appointments
- Administering psychological tests
- Diagnosing mental illness
- Writing and implementing treatment plans
- Providing counseling to clients
- Observing groups or work teams to identify any issues
- Providing business, government entities, and organizations with best practice recommendations based on observations
- Providing counseling in school settings
- Assisting with patients managing chronic illness
Psychologist Certifications & Licensure
All psychologists in the United States must be licensed. Licensing is done on a state-by-state basis by the local licensing board. Requirements vary by state but all states require passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology administered by the ASPPB. Some states also require passing a jurisprudence exam.
How Much Do Psychologists Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2024), clinical and counseling psychologists earn $106,850 on average. Here are the percentiles:
- 10th percentile: $50,470
- 25th percentile: $67,470
- 50th percentile (median): $95,830
- 75th percentile: $131,510
- 90th percentile: $170,150
Psychologist Career Alternatives
Here are a few alternatives to a career as a crisis counselor
Become a Marriage and Family Therapist
Marriage and family therapists help clients improve their relationships and resolve conflicts within the context of family systems. They provide therapy for individuals, couples, and families to address communication challenges, marital issues, parenting concerns, and emotional or behavioral disorders. In addition to counseling, they may intervene during crises and collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive treatment.
- Typical Education: Master’s degree
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Regulatory Boards (AMFTRB)
Become a Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders. They use a combination of psychotherapy, medication management, and other medical interventions to help patients manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Psychiatrists often work in hospitals, private practices, or community health settings and may collaborate with psychologists, social workers, and other mental health professionals.
- Typical Education: Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), followed by a residency in psychiatry
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN)
Become a Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologists specialize in understanding the relationship between brain function and behavior. They assess and treat individuals with brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning disabilities, and cognitive impairments. Neuropsychologists conduct detailed evaluations using standardized tests to measure memory, attention, language, and problem-solving abilities, then design interventions to support recovery and daily functioning. This career bridges clinical psychology and neuroscience.
- Typical Education: Doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology with specialized training in neuropsychology, plus postdoctoral fellowship
- Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN)
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterAt HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.