PhD in Counseling Psychology two years?

Question

I don't want to go to medical school. I don't want to be able to prescribe drugs. I want to use my thoughts to help, I want to counsel. Can I accomplish a Phd in Counseling Psychology in 2 years? Ive heard it takes 5 to 7 or 10 to 12 years, but that's with medical school and stuff. Just wondering.

Answer 1

I am wondering if you might get a better response for this question if you reposted it in Education. Just a thought. Regards UK

Answer 2

Hello, have no fears: I've come equipped with answers!

First of all, the length of any given program depends on the institution. Secondly, the PhD route always takes longer than the Masters route, but if you already have a Masters degree in an approved field (i.e. clinical/counseling psychology), then this may make your PhD program shorter by one year.

From personal experience (I am a student pursuing a doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology), you cannot obtain a PhD in counseling psyc in 2 years. Oh no no no! It takes anywhere from 4 (with Masters) to 5 years (without). I've never heard of a Counseling Psyc program taking any more than 5 years (but it really depends on your pace; some individuals finish in 5 years and some need some extra time). Now I HAVE heard that the Clinical Psyc PhD programs take 5-7years.

Let me quality my previous statement that you cannot obtain a PhD in Counseling Psyc in 2 years. It sounds to me like you don't have  Masters. In that case, you may have to take a year of masters level prerequisite courses to bring you up to speed to the doctoral level (at least this has been the case for me). Then you will need about a year of practicum (getting firsthand experience in the field). You will need to take several advanced courses in statistics. And finally, your last year will be a year-long internship. So as you can see, you really cannot meet all these requirements in 2 years if you wish to get a doctoral degree.

Now if you want to get a Masters, then I think 2 years is more feasible! If you want to be a counselor/therapist then a Masters is for you. If you wish to be a psychologist, then you need a doctoral degree. Keep in mind that the PhD provides you with more diverse work opportunities, including a chance to teach and do research as a professor. I would recommend that you continue to look up information on the differences between counselor/therapist (Masters) and psychologist (PhD). Given your specific needs and preferences, one may be better suited for you than the other.

Good luck!