Final answer:
A clinical psychologist typically requires a PhD or PsyD and must be licensed to practice, which includes passing a licensure exam and potentially completing postdoctoral work. They can work in various settings, including private practice and academia, and have different responsibilities than psychiatrists.
Step-by-step explanation:
Requirements for Becoming a Clinical Psychologist
Becoming a clinical psychologist typically requires a doctorate degree in psychology, either a PhD or a PsyD. The path to this career generally involves 5-6 years of graduate study. In most states, licensure is necessary to practice as a clinical or counseling psychologist, which may include completing postdoctoral work under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. However, some states are starting to remove this postdoctoral requirement. To be licensed, candidates must pass a licensure exam after meeting their state's specific educational and training prerequisites. Licensed psychologists may work in private practice, hospitals, or in academic settings, among other environments.
While those with a master's degree in psychology can pursue careers as professional counselors, school psychologists, or in industrial-organizational psychology, most clinical psychologists have a doctoral degree. Psychiatrists, however, are medical doctors (MDs) and can prescribe medication, unlike clinical psychologists who specialize in therapy and psychological testing.
For those interested in academia, a PhD in psychology can lead to faculty positions where teaching, research, and service are the main responsibilities. Opportunities also exist at 2-year colleges and private industry for those with advanced degrees in psychology.