Why I'm Getting a PhD in Psychology Instead of a Master's

In this video, I explain why a PhD in Clinical Psychology was the best choice for me. Even though you can become a licensed psychotherapy with a Master's degree, I wanted to have more career options (which the PhD enables me to have). For more free content, click here: www.flow.page/gradlifegrind
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Disclaimer: I am NOT a licensed clinical psychologist or licensed mental health professional. I am a PhD STUDENT in Clinical Psychology. I never claim to be an expert; I simply share what I know and learn as I go.
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Пікірлер: 93

  • @pizza285
    @pizza2853 жыл бұрын

    i love this video!! i am also getting a PhD in psych after i finish my undergrad and am getting a minor in Spanish with hopes to become fluent... u go queen

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    Aww thank you! Best of luck

  • @KaylaRWhitley
    @KaylaRWhitley3 жыл бұрын

    Love your video!! I am trying to decide between applying for Masters and PhD programs right now myself and this gave me some great perspective!!

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for watching!! Be sure to follow on IG if you're not already :)

  • @chloeburdette3040
    @chloeburdette30403 жыл бұрын

    This is awesome. Thank you for posting.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @amandabisby3546
    @amandabisby3546 Жыл бұрын

    I’ve been struggling with this lately. I’ve wanted to be a neuropsychologist since middle school (I “finished” my third year of undergrad recently), but I’ve really been questioning whether I want to commit to the stress of preparing for and going through a PhD program and then being a neuropsychologist. I’m just not sure if I want to live a life full of stress. I actually had to take a medical leave from school because I developed bipolar and went through my first hypomanic phase pretty much completely unmedicated. I did a lot of dangerous and reckless stuff and my stainless academic record took quite the hit. However, it forced me to finally take a break for the first time in a decade and I realized I’ve been the most relaxed and satisfied I’ve felt in a very long time. I’ve spent the majority of my life thus far participating in every club I wanted to, making it into every honor society, achieving perfect to near perfect grades, and holding so many leadership positions that adding mental health problems on top of that completely broke me. I don’t want that to happen again and I don’t want to go back to the stress-filled life I was leading. All of this is to say that I’m worried about wasting the effort I’ve put in by not pursuing my education far enough to make the work worth it, but I also want to live a life where I can have fun and pursue my passions. So I’m kind of stuck on the masters vs PhD debacle at the moment. Do I prioritize my well-being (Master’s) or my financial stability (PhD)?

  • @thephenomenologist4669
    @thephenomenologist46692 жыл бұрын

    Very informative video- thank you!

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @naomisky7905
    @naomisky79052 жыл бұрын

    Omg you are so inspiring I am Hispanic and am also considering on getting a phd in psychology ❤️❤️❤️ i feel like it calls to me 😭❤️ and I’ve never had that happen to me before I’m excited

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching! Wishing you so much success in your academic journey 🤍

  • @yesssikee
    @yesssikee Жыл бұрын

    Girl I've been following you since your beginnings I think, and this is the first time watching this video. I watched it at the perfect time. I was wondering if I really wanted a PhD but your reasons are exactly mine. :')

  • @heyaimen
    @heyaimen Жыл бұрын

    I think I've found the perfect person to take guide from because this is how I want it to be as well. Since you said that's all your personal choice, the way you want it to be, 2 days doing a thing 2 days another and 2 days another. Absolutely found the perfect match. 💕💕 I'm a 2nd year BS Clinical Psychology student at University of Management and Technology, LHR, Pakistan. And I always wanted to plan a roadmap for me but people around me just tell me to complete your studies first and then think about the rest of the journey. Anyways keep growing lots of love 😘

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for watching! Wishing you all the best!!

  • @safiyanazeeha393
    @safiyanazeeha3933 жыл бұрын

    great insights! 🙏🏻

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    thank you!

  • @DrLoren668
    @DrLoren6682 жыл бұрын

    This video is such a blessing. You have no idea

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    So glad to hear that! Thanks for watching 🙏🏼

  • @mrs.reysolo2601
    @mrs.reysolo2601 Жыл бұрын

    Loved this video & I believe these are my reasons to want to apply for a PhD program! Thanks for sharing this!

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad it was helpful!

  • @aliasmjm
    @aliasmjm2 жыл бұрын

    Great video! Thanks! Could you talk about the different types of Masters degrees in psychology?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Great suggestion! There are TONS of options, but I'll give it a shot!

  • @AbbyEkwere

    @AbbyEkwere

    2 жыл бұрын

    Please I am interested too. I am looking to get masters in psychology . What and what do you need ?

  • @taylorbrooke3310
    @taylorbrooke33102 жыл бұрын

    I also knew that I wanted to be a Psychologist when I was 12 and am now finishing my Bachelor's in Psych and looking into graduate programs. Though I could go into a counseling program in Masters but there is still a difference between counseling and psychology.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    From what I understand, the main differences are the settings you provide services in and the types of clients you may have. Psych (esp clinical psych) tends to focus more on pathology.

  • @marielou2365
    @marielou23653 жыл бұрын

    Interesting! In my country (Switzerland), you need to first get a masters and only then you‘re allowed to start a phd. Oh, and if you wan‘t to work as a therapist, you need to get a second diploma in that.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    Good to know! In most fields, a master's is needed before PhD as well. In psychology, some applicants can be accepted with just a bachelors (like me).

  • @natashagates6280
    @natashagates62802 жыл бұрын

    I can’t find an integrated program online. I don’t want a licensure. I just want to get a PhD to teach.

  • @ThangLe-rh5nd
    @ThangLe-rh5nd2 жыл бұрын

    I wonder what is different, in somehow we acknowledge phd as what we can get only when we have finished the master's one first.

  • @elizabethcruz5233
    @elizabethcruz52333 жыл бұрын

    So I have a question so if u want to be a physiotherapist and a clinical or counseling psychologist like your main focus is physiotherapist but u want to do other things than just that can u also apply to try and do a PhD degree

  • @DailyArchetype
    @DailyArchetype2 жыл бұрын

    Super smart!

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks!

  • @marvinalejandroarancibiata3345
    @marvinalejandroarancibiata33455 ай бұрын

    More videos please

  • @MilkTeaASMR
    @MilkTeaASMR2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you. I go back and forth another this decision a lot. I, too wonder if I will burn out from compassion fatigue after being a therapist for a few years. I don’t love statistics though… so it kind of makes me wonder if I’d like being a psychologist. Do you think it matters?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    There are lots of psychologists who don’t like stats! But it’s a huge decision and compassion fatigue and burnout are real issues. I recommend weighing pros and cons and talking to people who’ve taken different career paths you’re interested in!

  • @goldolive6123
    @goldolive61232 жыл бұрын

    What school did you attend for your doctorate? Thank u...

  • @Dr.KaitouPhD
    @Dr.KaitouPhD3 жыл бұрын

    Interesting, I love your motives for trying to get into the PhD program, thank you for the video. Also, would I be able to do experimental psychology with just a master's degree? Also, could I so a little research, or do I need to PhD? I wish you luck in your journey.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    The degree you pursue is completely based on your own career goals and how competitive you are for a given program. It is possible to get into a PhD program in Clinical Psychology without a Master's degree, but you should have other experiences that make you a competitive applicant. For a career in psychology as a researcher, getting a PhD is usually the way. I recommend talking with someone else in the field who is already doing the career you are hoping to do.

  • @Dr.KaitouPhD

    @Dr.KaitouPhD

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@GradLifeGrind thank you

  • @sara-naropian

    @sara-naropian

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@GradLifeGrind May I ask how long to complete the PhD program if without a Master's degree? Is there any online program?

  • @joulibrown9174

    @joulibrown9174

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@sara-naropian There are a few. I attend GCU. You need your Master's degree 1st. They are completely online.

  • @sara-naropian

    @sara-naropian

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@joulibrown9174 The video said get PhD without a Master's degree 😅. So, I thought we can get the PhD right after the BA.

  • @elenadarling4697
    @elenadarling4697 Жыл бұрын

    She’s great! ❤

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks!!

  • @skworter
    @skworter10 ай бұрын

    What school are you attending?

  • @via8029
    @via80293 жыл бұрын

    sadly, we're required to obtain a master's degree (3 to 4 years) before we can pursue a PhD (4 years till eternity) in our country.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yes, that is very common. Not all fields allow you to "skip" the Master's degree even in the United States. In my program, you obtain your Master's along the way to the PhD

  • @via8029

    @via8029

    3 жыл бұрын

    ​@@GradLifeGrind you don't have to complete a master's thesis for the Master's degree right?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@via8029 those requirements vary by program.

  • @PoppyLauren14

    @PoppyLauren14

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@GradLifeGrind oh so you do get a Master’s, it’s just a joint program with the PhD? I assume it’s just an extra year. Would love some clarification. I’m in an Masters of Social Work program and I’m regretting my decision because I have similar career goals as you - I’m nb and disabled - representation matters! (also it’s so nice to come across other non-cishet Arielle’s :) )

  • @dalaee51
    @dalaee51 Жыл бұрын

    Currently majoring in business but i want to change it to psychology. I would go for a PhD degree but im worried about the cost and if i would get help with that. I've been attending 2 years in CC and my classes were being paid with FAFSA. I don't know how else i would get help if i decide to change my major and transfer to a university

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    Many PhD programs offer funding but not all. Researching programs in depth to see whether they offer a funding package could be the next step

  • @SunshineSunshine102
    @SunshineSunshine1022 жыл бұрын

    Can I apply for PsyD/PhD if my Bachelor's degree in Musical Arts and I don't have a Master's in Psychology? Or do I have to complete Master's first?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes you can still apply but you may need to take some required courses in psychology. Check the admissions requirements for the programs you’re interested in!

  • @emocuta
    @emocuta Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for this video and for sharing your reasons to pursue your PhD in Clinical Psychology. I’m currently pursuing a PhD in School Psychology. Your reasons sound a lot like my reasons and I’m surprised to learn how little Hispanics are represented in this field. THANK YOU🤍

  • @easyandhappylife251
    @easyandhappylife2513 жыл бұрын

    I do not have a optional psychology subject in my graduation can I apply for masters ?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    It’s best to inquire at each individual masters program what their application requirements are

  • @DrLoren668
    @DrLoren6682 жыл бұрын

    "Less than 6 percent of psychologists are Spanish speaking". I am an African American who took 4 Spanish classes in my entire academic career. I've had a STRONG desire for years to become fluent in Spanish. Now I hear that only 6 percent of American psychologists are Spanish-speaking! WOW. There's really crazy. A minimum 10 percent is needed just to service Florida, Texas and California alone. I'm currently tossing and turning in my thoughts... "Should I get a master's or a doctorate in psychology"? I am currently finishing another grad program 🤔. You've just opened my eyes. I will have a 6 month to 1 year break between this program and whichever the next one is. I did notice that more master's programs have the bilingual track. Virtually no programs in doctoral-level psychology have a bilingual track. That would not serve Spanish speakers with more severe issues that only a psychologist could service. I've heard of people spending a few months in Latin America...just to become fluent in Spanish.. I could do that...or just take Duolingo courses in-between programs

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    I love to hear your interest in serving the Spanish speaking community! Many Spanish speaking students don’t get formal Spanish language training as part of their program. Like me, they offer services in Spanish during practicum if they feel confident in their language skills, whether or not their supervisor is Spanish speaking.

  • @joulibrown9174
    @joulibrown91742 жыл бұрын

    Hi. Did you apply for a scholarship? Did you hire a professional grant writer if you did apply? How do regular find grants/scholarships for their PhD journey?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    No professional grant writer. I've applied for scholarships and fellowship programs throughout my program. I've mostly found them through searching online on my own or through recommendations from colleagues/faculty. Joining professional orgs (for example APA for psychology) can help you hear about opportunities. I recently got awarded a fellowship, but I've applied to many over the years, so it's not really guaranteed.

  • @olaideosibanjo7950
    @olaideosibanjo79503 жыл бұрын

    I want to do a masters in counseling psychology but I don’t know the difference between an MSc and an MA😭. Please can you explain this ?

  • @TheSkaterjoe123

    @TheSkaterjoe123

    3 жыл бұрын

    MS degrees tend to be more research oriented, emphasizing the research component of said psychology field and primarily focusing on conducting and presenting research. MA degrees are more theory based and don't emphasize research as much, I would say both are viable for professional use, but if you want to primarily focus on research (or pursue a career that entails conducting lots of research such as a clinical psychology) then I would pursue a Master of Science degree.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for responding! I would agree

  • @kikismultiverse1696
    @kikismultiverse16962 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your kind informatioms. how many years do you need to study in it to get phD without attending master may I ask? =D is that 5 years obligational?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Phd programs in clinical psychology are typically 4-7 years and in many programs you obtain a masters along the way but you don’t need to have it before you start

  • @kikismultiverse1696

    @kikismultiverse1696

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@GradLifeGrind omg That's a Maraton to me xD, but you r still very young, so go for the finish-line with best wishes. I just started psychology study n look forward for your results =D

  • @offickdkdkkdkdkdkek
    @offickdkdkkdkdkdkek3 жыл бұрын

    Where did you get the stats on the % of race who are in clinical psychology PhD programs? I wonder how many Asians/Pacific Islanders

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    I googled it. I believe the APA may have some numbers

  • @jahredsullivan4214
    @jahredsullivan42143 жыл бұрын

    If you get a masters can you count some of those credits towards a PhD or do you have to start over

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    depends on the program! some will let you transfer a few credits, but it probably will not shave any years off the PhD. It may just lighten your workload, which is nice too.

  • @itsyeesha_sagee
    @itsyeesha_sagee3 жыл бұрын

    What course and strand did you take?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    I got my BA in psychology, so I took all the required courses that my university required as well as elective courses in psych and other subjecs.

  • @itsyeesha_sagee

    @itsyeesha_sagee

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@GradLifeGrind thank you💗

  • @christinejoyperalta1288

    @christinejoyperalta1288

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@GradLifeGrind I’m currently a BS Nursing freshman and I’m looking into obtaining a Masters/PhD in Psychology after college. Would that be possible with a BS Nursing Degree?

  • @Serra684
    @Serra6842 жыл бұрын

    Do I get job easily with only masters degree....

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    It depends on so many factors

  • @kh6921
    @kh69212 жыл бұрын

    The term lantinx or la tinks is offensive

  • @nehajain5305
    @nehajain53053 жыл бұрын

    Is this info about usa ? are u frm usa ?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes, this is specifically for the US. I should've stated that in my video, thank you!

  • @stephananemaat
    @stephananemaat Жыл бұрын

    Fun fact, in Australia (where I live) you only need a Master's to be a Clinical Psychologist, and you don't need any qualifications at all to call yourself a psychotherapist.

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    Interesting!

  • @shubizaidi3591
    @shubizaidi3591 Жыл бұрын

    I am masters in Engineering. Am I eligible for PhD in Psychology?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    Жыл бұрын

    Most graduate programs have detailed information on their admissions webpage that can help you determine whether you may be competitive, what courses are required prior to enrollment, etc. When this info is not readily available online, I recommend contacting the graduate program(s) you are interested in and asking them your specific questions so that you have all the information you need prior to applying.

  • @lenorenoor1929
    @lenorenoor19292 жыл бұрын

    Where are you studying?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    2 жыл бұрын

    In California!

  • @kritikabiswa6833
    @kritikabiswa68333 жыл бұрын

    Why did you stoped working with kids?

  • @GradLifeGrind

    @GradLifeGrind

    3 жыл бұрын

    No particular reason. I never really worked with kids.

  • @VladyslavKL
    @VladyslavKL3 жыл бұрын

    🐋

  • @Nicole-oq6ky
    @Nicole-oq6ky9 ай бұрын

    Don't say Latinx its Latino or Latina.

  • @jeremytones
    @jeremytones2 жыл бұрын

    Ugh most beautiful woman ever

  • @jakeconrad2130
    @jakeconrad21302 жыл бұрын

    Woke, gross