New in the field of applying.... any advice?

[marypolymerase2]

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Hello!!

I'm looking into Psy.D. programs, Clinical Psych M.A. programs, and possibly even Ph.D. but I'm feeling a little lost to say the least! I'm wondering if anyone who's been in a similar position might have any advice. Here are my credentials and interests in brief form:

Degree: B.A. in Cell Biology & Neuroscience (Rutgers '07)
minors: Psychology, Cognitive Science, Philosophy

GPA: 3.4

GRE: 1340, 4.5 in writing

ExCurr in undergrad: almost none, worked in a CogSci research lab briefly

Work exp: 2 summers as counselor at a special needs camp (children with ADHD, ODD, Aspergers and Autism)
1 year at a school for disabled children (very broad range of ability levels)
1 year at a partial hospitalization program for children with behavioral and emotional disorders (current job)

* also have 3 strong letters of rec from 1 professor and 2 employers

I really love GWU's Psy.D. program but I'm not sure my credentials are strong enough. For that matter, are they strong enough for any Psy.D. program? How about a Master's?

My basic goal is to find a (fundamentally) psychodynamic program that will enable me to gain licensure for private practice. Also, I have very little interest in research. I'm currently in NJ, but am excited to move somewhere near a city. Any suggestions for programs? Any highly discouraged?

Please forgive my posting style, I'm pretty new to this type of forum. And again, ANY information would be greatly appreciated! THANK YOU!!! 🙂

 

[PrisonPsych]

Your lack of significant research experience is going to really hurt you for Ph.D. programs, but if you're looking at primarily clinical focused PsyD programs, you're not in too bad shape. Due to you not being a psychology major, it might not be a bad idea to do a masters first in order both to make sure psych is what you really want to do as well as improve your grades and give you more research experience. My two cents, anyway.

 

[leavingprov]

I agree with PrisonPsych's outlook, especially if these 'clinical' experiences are connected somehow with your clinical and research interests. I'm assuming you want to get out of Jersey or you would be considering Rutgers PsyD as an option (they have a number of great psychodynamic profs).

Also wanted to add that your profile name may have won the cell-bio-nerdiness award! 🙂

 

[marypolymerase2]

Thanks a lot for the advice to both of you. I'm pretty certain I don't want a Ph.D. program, I'm not into research. I'm just extremely nervous about applying to programs I won't get into and wasting my time!

And yes, I love Jersey as much as we all do, but I want a change. Prof. James at Rutgers?? Love him too. He introduced me to the idea of becoming a therapist.

So thanks again.... and I humbly accept the nerdiness award. Greatly appreciated 🙂