173. What is involved in training a psychologist?

On average, psychologists complete approximately five to seven years of graduate education and professional training, beyond a bachelor's degree. In the United States, the practice of psychology is regulated by law in all fifty states, plus Guam and the District of Columbia.

The minimal acceptable standard of training for a psychologist today is a doctoral degree in psychology or a closely allied field. Psychologists are "Doctors" but they are not physicians, and they do not prescribe medication. The doctoral degree in psychology typically takes four to five years of full time graduate study beyond a college degree. The degree may be a Ph.D., a Psy.D. or an Ed.D., depending upon the graduate training program.

The coursework includes training in the science of psychology, with core courses covering the social, developmental, learning and biological bases for human behavior. This typically includes training in personality theory, normal growth and development, and the nature of psychological problems and psychopathology. Specialized training is also provided in diagnostic evaluation techniques, psychological testing, and psychotherapy and/or counseling methods. Psychologists also learn how stress, traumatic events, aging, and cultural background affect human behavior as well. Many courses have practicum requirements, which combine clinical experience and classroom knowledge.

Some psychologists have training at the Master’s level. This involves about two years of full time graduate training beyond the Bachelor’s degree, in the same subject areas used to train doctoral level psychologists.