As a newly licensed psychologist realizing the economic reality of my PhD, I confess that I've been guilty of somehow promoting or equating an MSW, LCSW, MFT, LPC and etc to my degree. In truth, a clinical master's level degree in the mental health field is probably financially a better investment (significantly less time in school for slightly less pay). However, I've come to the realization that a master's degree is not comparable to our doctorate.
Sure, many master's level clinicians do what PhDs do. That's not the point. The point is, should they be doing everything? The answer is no. Sure, anyone (with a degree or not) can be trained to perform specific tasks. However, that does not mean that they have a full understanding of what they are doing and why. Most importantly, less education means not understanding limitations.
I know that many master's level therapists have fine education and training, but I've also noticed that there is a sense of, "we can do anything doctorates can." Well, if that's the case, they should know that competency means a very specific level of training in a particular area. I graduated with a clear sense of, this is what I know, and this is what I don't know. With 2 semester long rotations and a class in neuropsychology, I know that I can administer tests, but I know my limitations in interpretation. If you feel you can assess and treat most populations with any presenting problem, then you're probably not very competent.
I've been talking so some of my friends with MDs and there appears to be similar issues with NPs and PAs. I know that many NPs and PAs are very intelligent and good at what they do, but many also appear to have a lack of understanding of limitations in training. I worked with a PA who only had a single 6 week practica in psychiatry before functioning pretty much independently, prescribing psychotropic medications. Many newly graduated NPs and PAs seem more confident of their skills than my friends who've just completed their residencies.
So, I've decided that I will no longer beat myself up for making a less than ideal economic choice. I know that I have the best possible training to do my job. I've learned from great supervisors who have guided me. And from now on, I will inform anyone interested in the field of mental health to consider a PhD, because we can be certain that no one is better qualified than us to do our job. I know I still have much to learn and plan to learn on the job. However, I know that with my PhD, I can think critically and scientifically and provide what is best for my patients.
Sure, many master's level clinicians do what PhDs do. That's not the point. The point is, should they be doing everything? The answer is no. Sure, anyone (with a degree or not) can be trained to perform specific tasks. However, that does not mean that they have a full understanding of what they are doing and why. Most importantly, less education means not understanding limitations.
I know that many master's level therapists have fine education and training, but I've also noticed that there is a sense of, "we can do anything doctorates can." Well, if that's the case, they should know that competency means a very specific level of training in a particular area. I graduated with a clear sense of, this is what I know, and this is what I don't know. With 2 semester long rotations and a class in neuropsychology, I know that I can administer tests, but I know my limitations in interpretation. If you feel you can assess and treat most populations with any presenting problem, then you're probably not very competent.
I've been talking so some of my friends with MDs and there appears to be similar issues with NPs and PAs. I know that many NPs and PAs are very intelligent and good at what they do, but many also appear to have a lack of understanding of limitations in training. I worked with a PA who only had a single 6 week practica in psychiatry before functioning pretty much independently, prescribing psychotropic medications. Many newly graduated NPs and PAs seem more confident of their skills than my friends who've just completed their residencies.
So, I've decided that I will no longer beat myself up for making a less than ideal economic choice. I know that I have the best possible training to do my job. I've learned from great supervisors who have guided me. And from now on, I will inform anyone interested in the field of mental health to consider a PhD, because we can be certain that no one is better qualified than us to do our job. I know I still have much to learn and plan to learn on the job. However, I know that with my PhD, I can think critically and scientifically and provide what is best for my patients.
