What is the difference between getting a MFT or PHD to practice as a therapist?

I am confused on which educational path to take with my career goals in mind. I would like to work with children and adolescents – specializing in Foster Care, Trauma, PTSD and Child Abuse. I am trying to understand the differences of practicing with a MA in clinical psychology compare to a PH.D in psychology. I was told that a PH.D is intended for research purposes and that a MA is to be a MFT. Therefore I was wondering what your opinion is – I would rather work with people than do research or experiments. The other thing I was wondering – is once you are licensed – does it matter what schools you went to? I know some people look at the rankings of the schools – but how important is that when you are practicing…I am asking because I can’t decide if I should transfer to UCSC or to San Jose State. Also what you think salary differences are with being a MFT and having a PH.D?

What is the difference between getting a MFT or PHD to practice as a therapist?
I am in a similar journey... A PhD is, indeed, mostly for research purposes. There is, however, another doctoral degree - a PsyD - that is clinically oriented. The major difference is that a PhD focuses more heavily on research (dissertation is research -- of course,each program within the realm of Clinical Psych PhD varies in its emphasis on research vs clinical work - scientist-practitioner model is most balanced, and some don't train you in clinical work at all) and a PsyD focses more on clinical work (I belive dissertation is based off clinical work). Both are doctoral level degrees in clinical psych.





now, keep in mind that a PhD could take anywhere from 5-7+ years...





The other option is a MSW (masters in social work). Social workers work directly with clients as well. The work with same populations more or less. the positive about a social work degree is that it only takes about 2 years for the MSW - and then you can obtain licensure by gaining experience, supervision, and taking an exam. If you go the clinical psych track, you need a PhD to be licensed. There is no licensure for a Masters in Clinical Psych (of course, I am in CT and the state laws may differ in CA).





I am not fully clear with the progression of a MFT, but think it is simialr to MSW. It is different from an MA in Clinical Psychology.





Hope this helps!
Reply:If you want to be a therapist, a PhD is not necessary. Also, it's pretty hard to get into a PhD program if you tell the school that you don't want to do research. You could get a PsyD if you want a doctorate...it doesn't take as long as a PhD, you don't have to do research, and your education will focus on clinical practice. Also, many people get a master's in social work when they want to work as a therapist with children.





I've never heard of an MFT; however, I know it's not that great of an idea to get a terminal master's in psychology. Typically, people do this because they couldn't get into a PhD program for their first try (I'm sure that's not always the case, but it's true of most of the people I know who got a master's in psych).





If you're going to work as a therapist, you'll make slightly more money with a PhD than you would with a Master's, but you're going to spend so much more time in school! I'm not sure it's even worth it if you're not trying to start a career in academia.
Reply:U r right...a PhD is mostly interested in doing research and/or teaching in an institution.





A masters is suited for clinical purposes. You would want to pursue your masters. Then, to get licensure, u could be a licensed marriage family therapist, licensed professional counselor, or licensed social worker. all these are feasible for the type of work u desire.





if u wish to make more money (and wish to spend the additional $ and time), u could be a licensed clinical psychologist (Psy.D.). That would enable u to charge more $, and u can do more testings/evaluations than some of the other professions previously listed.





it doesn't ultimately matter about the school--only perhaps, to future prospective clients. Clients can be discerning about that sort of stuff.

hotels