Psychiatry: a viable job option?

Question

Anybody who is one or knows anything about it, what are the pros and cons? Do you recommend it? Thank you.

Answer 1

I would recommend psychology over psychiatry.  I made that decision years ago for myself.  There are many different types of psychologists, not all go into clinical.  apa.org  for info.  To become a psychiatrist: 4 years undergrad, 4 years med school, one year internship, then 4 years residency.  Then licensing.  

Clinical psychologist, 4 years undergrad, apply directly to Ph.D. program...get master's along the way...one year internship while in grad program, do thesis, dissertation, pass prelims, get licensed, so about 5-7 years of graduate education.  Psychologists spend much mroe time on training directly on the topic than psychiatrists.  And, in some states psychologists can now prescribe meds, with other states following.  That is not a differentiator in terms of education.  Psychologists are educated on meds, and have for years known what to prescribe if needed, and had an MD that works with them to sign the script.  There will always be people in need of counseling.  apa page has info on salaries (6 figure).  But if you really want to be therapist I'd go directly for the psych Ph.D.  You have to balance burn out....it can be draining...Good luck to you!  (psychologist/professor/retired IBM exec mgr/research labs)

Answer 2

Well my daughter is going into the field despite my objections! She will be doing placement work this next semester so she will get a feel for what it's like I suppose.

I guess it's great to want to help people but I think it can be a burnout profession as well.

I'm hoping she applies it in a broader sense as she has many skills and although I think it's great that she wants to do one on one counselling I would rather see her as part of a team of professionals.  Guess time will tell how it all pans out.