Should I get a PsyD or MSW?

Question

if I want to counsel adequately functioning older children / younger adolescents in group or one-on-one therapy. I want to do as little research as possible and have no desire to teach

Answer 1

Depends on where you live. Look up licensing requirements in your state. Also decide if you want to work for an agency or in private practice and investigate what these options would require.

If you want to be eligible to be paid by insurance, etc., that would also affect what you need to do.  

The sad truth is that the market for counselors of "adequately functioning" children outside of school counseling is pretty small.

Answer 2

PsyD....but better yet, a master's in psychology. (2 year program)

apa.org   (more info)

(college psych professor)