Hello all,
Quick question. When someone completes all criteria for the doctorate degree and graduates from their program, we can refer to them as Dr. Smith. However, many organizations will allow this individual to work for them for a period of time, for example one year or up to two years, without being licensed by a state. So what do we call a person who has completed a doctorate, but is not licensed yet? what is the title that they should use with patients? We see this happening in the VA a lot where psychologists can be hired as a GS-1. The position is called psychologist. But can they really be called a psychologist yet?
Keep in mind, these folks are not being hired in postdoc positions. They were hired for psychologist positions, but they are not licensed yet. Which title should they use with patients, and with themselves when they self-identify?
Also, is there an exception in the VA?
Thanks
Quick question. When someone completes all criteria for the doctorate degree and graduates from their program, we can refer to them as Dr. Smith. However, many organizations will allow this individual to work for them for a period of time, for example one year or up to two years, without being licensed by a state. So what do we call a person who has completed a doctorate, but is not licensed yet? what is the title that they should use with patients? We see this happening in the VA a lot where psychologists can be hired as a GS-1. The position is called psychologist. But can they really be called a psychologist yet?
Keep in mind, these folks are not being hired in postdoc positions. They were hired for psychologist positions, but they are not licensed yet. Which title should they use with patients, and with themselves when they self-identify?
Also, is there an exception in the VA?
Thanks