PhD vs PsyD in Clinical Psychology: Explaining the Difference for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Students interested in becoming licensed clinical psychologists must first understand the key educational pathways available to them, particularly the differences between a PhD and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology. Understanding this distinction is increasingly important, especially for those pursuing a career in mental health. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2023, approximately 207,500 psychologists are practicing across the country, with 76,800 specializing in clinical psychology—the largest subfield in the profession.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the key differences between PsyD and PhD in clinical psychology programs, including their educational requirements, training models, salaries, and career outcomes. In my work as an education researcher, I, along with my team, have taken a deep dive into these aspects to help aspiring psychologists make more informed decisions for 2025 and beyond.

Key Points About Choosing Between PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology:

PhD holders may earn slightly higher salaries, especially in research or academic roles. However, both degrees offer strong earning potential in clinical settings, with salaries often depending more on experience and location than degree type.
PsyD graduates often pursue clinical practice, while PhD holders may work in research, teaching, or clinical roles. PhD programs typically open more doors in academia, but both degrees are in demand across mental health settings.
PsyD programs emphasize clinical training and applied practice. Meanwhile, PhD programs balance research and clinical skills, with a stronger focus on scientific methods and data.

What is a PhD in Clinical Psychology?
What is a PsyD in Clinical Psychology?
What are the main differences between a PhD vs a PsyD in Clinical Psychology?
What to expect in PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology programs?
Do both degrees qualify you to become a licensed psychologist?
What are the financial aid programs for PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology students?
What should I know about accreditation for Clinical Psychology doctoral programs?
Could a Forensic Psychology Online Degree Enhance Your Clinical Psychology Career?
Can an accelerated psychology bachelor's degree boost my clinical career prospects?
What are the common licensure challenges after earning a PhD or PsyD?
What is the career path of PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology graduates?
What is the average salary of PhD and PsyD graduates in Clinical Psychology?
Is there a demand for PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology graduates?
How to Choose Between PhD and PsyD?
Other Things To Know About PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology Careers

What is a PhD in Clinical Psychology?

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Psychology is a rigorous, research-intensive doctoral program designed to prepare students to become both scientists and licensed clinicians. This degree follows the scientist-practitioner model, also known as the Boulder Model, which emphasizes a strong foundation in psychological research, theoretical knowledge, and clinical application.

Students in on-site and online PhD programs in psychology are trained to understand, conduct, and apply psychological research to real-world clinical problems. The curriculum typically includes advanced coursework in statistics, experimental design, psychopathology, assessment, psychotherapy, and ethics. A major component of the program is the completion of a doctoral dissertation, which involves original research and often takes several years to complete.

PhD students also undergo supervised clinical training through practicum placements and a full-year pre-doctoral internship, which are required for licensure. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, hospitals, private practice, or government agencies. Admission to PhD programs is highly competitive, and many programs offer full or partial funding in the form of stipends, research assistantships, or teaching fellowships.

To enroll in a PhD in Clinical Psychology program, students typically need:

A bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field such as neuroscience, cognitive science, sociology, social work, or human development.

An on-site or online master's in psychology degree is optional but may strengthen an application, particularly if it’s in experimental psychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, or applied psychology, and includes a research thesis or lab experience.

What is a PsyD in Clinical Psychology?

A Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology is a professional doctoral degree that focuses more on clinical training and practical experience than on research. Developed in the early 1970s, the PsyD follows the practitioner-scholar model (or Vail Model), which was designed to meet the growing demand for highly trained clinical psychologists who prioritize patient care over research.

PsyD programs still include foundational coursework in psychological theory, assessment, and intervention, but they place less emphasis on statistics and research methodology. Instead of a lengthy research dissertation, students may complete a doctoral project that is more applied in nature and directly related to clinical work.

Clinical training is a central component of PsyD programs. Students complete numerous practicum hours under supervision and must complete a full-time, year-long internship to qualify for licensure. PsyD graduates often work in clinical settings such as hospitals, mental health clinics, private practices, and schools, and are trained to work directly with individuals, couples, and families across various mental health concerns.

While PsyD programs tend to admit more students per year than PhD programs, they often offer less financial aid, and students are more likely to rely on loans to fund their education.

Applicants to PsyD programs usually hold:

A bachelor’s degree in psychology, though some programs also accept degrees in human services, social work, education, behavioral science, or nursing, especially if the student has taken foundational psychology courses.
A master’s degree is not always required, but those with a background in clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, or mental health counseling may be given preference.

What are the main differences between a PhD vs a PsyD in Clinical Psychology?

The key differences between these two doctoral degrees lie in their training focus, career preparation, research involvement, and funding opportunities. Below is a detailed breakdown by category:

Training Model and Philosophy

PhD and PsyD programs in Clinical Psychology differ in focus and training models. PhD programs, based on the scientist-practitioner model, emphasize both research and clinical practice, preparing students to contribute to psychological science and provide care. PsyD programs, following the practitioner-scholar model, focus more on clinical skills like assessment and therapy, aiming to train effective mental health practitioners rather than researchers.

Curriculum and Coursework

A PhD in Clinical Psychology includes intensive coursework in research methods, statistics, theory, ethics, assessment, and intervention, with a strong emphasis on research and dissertation work—often leading to academic publications or conference presentations. In contrast, a PsyD in Clinical Psychology focuses more on practical, applied training in clinical assessment, therapy techniques, multicultural competence, and ethics, with a research component typically limited to a practice-oriented doctoral project.

Research Expectations

A PhD in Clinical Psychology requires a doctoral dissertation based on original empirical research. Students gain advanced research skills, often working in faculty-led labs, with many programs encouraging publication and conference presentations. In contrast, a PsyD in Clinical Psychology requires a doctoral project that is generally less research-intensive and more focused on applied clinical work or literature reviews. While some PsyD students engage in research, it is not the primary emphasis of the program.

Clinical Training

A PhD in Clinical Psychology provides solid clinical training through practicum placements and a year-long internship, though typically with fewer hands-on hours than PsyD programs. A PsyD in Clinical Psychology offers more extensive clinical experience, incorporating additional practicum and therapy hours throughout the program, along with the required one-year full-time internship.

Admissions and Competitiveness

PhD programs in Clinical Psychology are highly competitive, typically accepting only 3–10 students per year. Admissions emphasize academic excellence, research experience, strong recommendations, and a compelling personal statement. PsyD in clinical psychology admission requirements are generally less competitive, often admitting 20–50+ students annually, with a greater focus on clinical potential, interpersonal skills, and alignment with the program’s practice-based mission.

Program Duration

A PhD in Clinical Psychology typically takes 5 to 7 years to complete, largely depending on the time needed for research and dissertation work. In contrast, a PsyD in Clinical Psychology usually takes 4 to 6 years, with a stronger focus on accumulating clinical hours rather than extensive research.

Given the differences between PhD and PsyD programs, it’s clear that both attract a substantial number of students pursuing clinical work. In fact, clinical psychology remains the most popular specialization among PsyD and PhD psychology programs. In 2023 alone, 34% of psychology doctoral graduates—equivalent to 2,465 individuals—earned their degrees in clinical psychology (APA, 2023). This figure underscores the field's importance and the wide range of career opportunities available to both PhD and PsyD graduates.

What courses are included in PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology programs?

PhD programs in Clinical Psychology focus on research and develop both clinical and academic expertise, emphasizing research methods and statistics. In contrast, PsyD programs are practice-oriented, prioritizing clinical training and therapy skills for direct patient care. Here are some common course requirements for psychology majors, specifically for students pursuing doctoral degrees:

PhD in Clinical Psychology Program

Psychological Research Methods. This course emphasizes experimental design, research methodologies, and the processes of data collection and analysis. Students acquire the skills to evaluate and conduct empirical research, which is essential for completing their dissertation.
Statistics in Psychology. In this course, students learn advanced statistical methods for analyzing psychological data. Topics covered include hypothesis testing, data analysis, and interpreting results within the context of psychological research.
Psychopathology. The focus of this course is on mental disorders, encompassing their symptoms, causes, and treatment strategies. Students engage with diagnostic criteria and classifications to better understand various mental health conditions.
Cognitive and Behavioral Assessment. This course covers the tools and techniques used to assess cognition, behavior, and overall psychological functioning. Students learn to apply standardized assessments to evaluate mental health.
Ethics and Professional Issues in Psychology. An exploration of ethical standards and professional conduct in clinical psychology, this course examines legal issues and ethical challenges commonly encountered in practice and research.
Research and Dissertation. Serving as the central element of a PhD program, the dissertation involves original empirical research. Students design their research projects, collect data, and analyze results, often culminating in publications or presentations.

Internships and Practicums. While research is the primary focus, students are also required to complete clinical practicums and a year-long internship. These internships, typically in hospitals or clinics, allow students to apply clinical skills in real-world environments under supervision, with less emphasis on clinical hours compared to PsyD programs.

PsyD in Clinical Psychology Program

Clinical Assessment. Students gain proficiency in diagnostic interviews, psychological testing, and the evaluation of cognitive and personality functioning. The course provides essential skills for assessing mental health in clinical settings.
Therapeutic Techniques and Interventions. This course delves into therapeutic methodologies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic approaches, emphasizing their practical application in therapy.
Multicultural Competence in Clinical Psychology. The course explores the influence of culture, ethnicity, and diversity on psychological practice. It emphasizes the development of cultural awareness and competence when providing therapy to a diverse population.
Psychopathology. Similar to the PhD program, this course examines the nature of mental disorders, including diagnostic criteria and treatment approaches, with a practical focus on applying knowledge in clinical settings.
Ethics and Professional Practice. Focused on professional ethics, this course prepares students to navigate decision-making, client confidentiality, and the ethical responsibilities of clinical psychologists. Ethical dilemmas in practice are discussed in depth.
Doctoral Project. Instead of a dissertation, PsyD students complete a practice-oriented doctoral project. This may involve case studies, literature reviews, or a clinically focused project, but it does not require the original empirical research typical of a PhD dissertation.

Internships and Practicums. Extensive clinical experience is a cornerstone of the PsyD program, with students spending significant time in practicum placements. These experiences involve direct patient interaction, including diagnostic assessments and therapeutic interventions, along with a year-long internship in a clinical setting under supervision.

Do both degrees qualify you to become a licensed psychologist?

Both PhD and PsyD degrees in Clinical Psychology can qualify you to become a licensed psychologist, but there are some key differences in their requirements and the path toward board certification. Let’s break down the requirements for each. To become a licensed psychologist in the United States, whether you have a PhD or a PsyD, you must meet several general requirements:

Complete an Accredited Doctoral Program. Both PhD and PsyD graduates need to complete a program that is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or a similar accrediting body. This ensures that the program meets high educational and training standards.
Postdoctoral Supervised Experience. After earning your degree, you will need to complete a postdoctoral internship. This typically involves around 1,500 to 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, often in a hospital, clinic, or other mental health setting.
Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). All candidates for licensure must pass the EPPP, a standardized exam that tests your knowledge of psychology across several domains, including ethics, assessment, and treatment.
State-Specific Requirements. In addition to national requirements, each state has its own specific licensing requirements, which may include an additional exam (like the jurisprudence exam), background checks, and continuing education.

Once licensed, PhD and PsyD graduates are also eligible to seek board certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). Board certification in psychology is optional, but it can enhance your professional standing. While the PhD and PsyD paths are both eligible for board certification, there are some differences in how candidates pursue this credential.

Only 4% of licensed psychologists in the US, or 4,400 professionals, are board-certified. While, it is not a requirement, board certification can boost credibility, professional recognition, and career advancement opportunities. Based on the ABPP Directory, 30% of them specialize in clinical psychology, while 7% focus on clinical child and adolescent psychology, making it the most common specialization in 2023.

What are the financial aid programs for PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology students?

Financial aid options for PhD and PsyD students in Clinical Psychology vary by program type, institution, and funding availability. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the typical financial support available:

Assistantships. Teaching Assistantships (TA) offer a tuition waiver and stipend in exchange for providing teaching support, while Research Assistantships (RA) are typically funded through faculty research grants and are often more prevalent in PhD programs. The latter are more common due to the strong research focus inherent in PhD studies. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers research assistantships for Clinical Psychology PhD students.
Scholarships. Some universities offer scholarships based on merit, with more options available for both doctoral programs. For example, all applicants to the PsyD in Clinical Psychology program at William James College are automatically considered based on academic excellence and potential.
Fellowships. External fellowships such as the APA Minority Fellowship Program, NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, and Ford Foundation Fellowship are available to both PhD and PsyD students, although PhD candidates tend to be more competitive.
Grants. Federal Grants, such as the Pell Grant, are typically not available for graduate students; however, research grants may support those involved in funded projects, particularly in PhD tracks.
Student Loans. Direct Unsubsidized Loans are federal loans available to most graduate students, while Grad PLUS Loans are intended for additional borrowing beyond unsubsidized loans. Both types of loans are commonly utilized by PhD and PsyD students, with PsyD students relying on them more due to having fewer funding opportunities.
Work-Study Programs. Some universities offer Federal Work-Study for graduate students, including positions related to psychology departments or student services.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement. Students working in related fields (e.g., mental health, social services) may qualify for employer-sponsored tuition assistance. Service
Based Loan Forgiveness. Psychologists can benefit from two important programs for loan forgiveness and repayment. The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program is available for those working in qualifying non-profit or government settings. Additionally, the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers loan repayment options for licensed psychologists who provide services in underserved areas.

What should I know about accreditation for Clinical Psychology doctoral programs?

Accreditation plays a critical role in ensuring that a Clinical Psychology doctoral program meets rigorous educational standards and prepares graduates for licensure. Accredited programs are regularly evaluated by recognized bodies such as the American Psychological Association (APA), confirming that their curriculum, faculty qualifications, and clinical training meet the specific requirements for both research and practice. This validation is essential for meeting state licensure requirements, transferring credits if necessary, and bolstering credibility with future employers. Additionally, reviewing program outcomes like graduation rates and internship placement success can help gauge overall quality. For candidates seeking cost-effective options, exploring the cheapest PsyD can offer a balance between affordability and adherence to accreditation standards.

Could a Forensic Psychology Online Degree Enhance Your Clinical Psychology Career?

Complementing clinical psychology expertise with interdisciplinary training can expand professional opportunities, particularly in settings where legal and criminal behavior insights are essential. Practitioners who integrate forensic methodologies into their practice acquire advanced skills in risk assessment, ethical decision-making, and case management in legal contexts, thereby broadening their service offerings. Pursuing a forensic psychology online degree can provide targeted, evidence-based training that enriches clinical assessments and supports collaboration with legal professionals. This additional credential may also facilitate career advancement by meeting emerging demands within overlapping areas of mental health and the justice system.

Can an accelerated psychology bachelor's degree boost my clinical career prospects?

An accelerated psychology bachelor's degree offers a streamlined academic pathway that enables early exposure to core psychological concepts and practical research skills, potentially shortening the timeline to doctoral studies. This focused route can enhance preparedness for intensive doctoral curricula by integrating foundational coursework with early professional experiences. Moreover, this approach facilitates timely access to relevant networking opportunities and hands-on learning environments, both of which are essential for a successful transition into competitive clinical psychology programs. For more detailed options on fast-tracking your educational journey, explore our guide on the accelerated psychology bachelor's degree.

What are the common licensure challenges after earning a PhD or PsyD?

Graduates must navigate varied state-specific licensure requirements, including passing standardized exams, completing additional supervised hours, and managing complex application processes. Differences in examinations—such as the EPPP—and supplementary state mandates can delay entry into professional practice. Detailed planning, including consulting your state licensing board and professional networks, is essential for streamlining this transition. Prospective candidates should also review established resources like our article on APA accredited PsyD programs to better understand specific program outcomes and preparatory support.

What is the career path of PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology graduates?

The benefits of working as a psychologist include having the opportunity to pursue different paths. Graduates of both PhD and PsyD programs in Clinical Psychology have diverse options, although the focus of each degree often influences the roles they pursue. Below is a list of potential career positions, highlighting which degree (PhD or PsyD) typically aligns with each, along with brief job descriptions:

Clinical Psychologist (PhD or PsyD). Clinical psychologists are trained to diagnose mental health conditions, offer psychotherapy, and develop personalized treatment plans across settings like hospitals, private clinics, and community centers.
Research Psychologist (PhD). With a strong emphasis on scientific inquiry, research psychologists investigate psychological phenomena, contribute original studies to academic journals, and often collaborate with institutions such as universities or government bodies.

Professor of Psychology (PhD). Professors not only teach and mentor students at the college or university level but also lead research projects, write grant proposals, and help shape the academic direction of psychology programs.

Neuropsychologist (PhD or PsyD with specialization). Specializing in brain-behavior relationships, neuropsychologists evaluate cognitive and neurological functioning in patients with brain injuries or disorders, often partnering with neurologists and rehabilitation teams. Those who want to pursue this path should complete online PhD and PsyD programs in neuropsychology.

Health Psychologist (PhD or PsyD). These professionals explore the psychological aspects of health and illness, designing behavioral interventions and wellness strategies within hospitals, health agencies, or chronic care programs.

School Psychologist (PhD or PsyD with credential). Working within K–12 schools or school districts, school psychologists provide counseling, conduct assessments, and support students’ emotional and learning needs in collaboration with teachers and parents. School psychologist jobs may be different from school counselor jobs as the latter may require only a master's degree in school counseling.
Policy Analyst or Behavioral Science Advisor (PhD). Drawing on research and data analysis, behavioral advisors help shape public health policy, advise on behavioral trends, and contribute to initiatives in government or nonprofit sectors.
Clinical Director or Program Administrator (PhD or PsyD). Responsible for managing clinical operations, these leaders supervise mental health teams, design service protocols, and ensure program quality in hospitals or community health settings.
Forensic Psychologist (PhD or PsyD with forensic training). Forensic psychologists bridge psychology and law, working with courts to assess mental competency, risk, and criminal behavior, and often serving as expert witnesses in legal cases. Know more about forensic psychologist duties if this field interests you.
Licensed Psychotherapist (PsyD or PhD). Psychotherapists focus on direct care, using talk therapy and evidence-based approaches to help clients manage stress, trauma, and emotional challenges in one-on-one or group settings.
Consultant or Organizational Psychologist (PhD). These psychologists apply psychological principles to improve workplace culture, enhance team performance, and support leadership development in businesses and government organizations. You can look into organizational psychologist jobs to see if this area of focus is the right fit for you.
Postdoctoral Fellow or Research Fellow (PhD). Often the next step after earning a PhD, these fellows engage in intensive, focused research to deepen their expertise before transitioning into permanent academic or clinical research roles.
Department Chair (PhD). A department chair oversees faculty, coordinates academic programs, manages department budgets, and helps align teaching and research with institutional goals in higher education.
Chief Psychologist (PhD or PsyD). As the highest-ranking clinical psychologist in an organization, the chief psychologist provides oversight for clinical operations, sets treatment standards, and supports professional development for staff.
Executive Director of Mental Health Organizations (PhD or PsyD). These top-level administrators lead organizations dedicated to mental health services or advocacy, often guiding strategic vision, managing cross-sector partnerships, and driving community impact. Supplementary degrees such as an MBA or MPH may provide added value in these leadership roles.

What is the average salary of a Licensed Clinical Psychologist?

According to ZipRecruiter (2025), the average salary of licensed clinical psychologists in the US is $131,590 per year, with most earning between $103,000 (25th percentile) and $149,500 (75th percentile). Several variables can significantly affect how much a clinical psychologist earns:

Experience Level. Entry-level clinicians typically earn less, while seasoned psychologists with 10+ years of experience or those in supervisory roles can command significantly higher salaries.
Location. Salaries are often higher in metropolitan areas or states with a high cost of living, such as California, New York, or Massachusetts. Rural areas may offer lower compensation, though sometimes with added incentives like loan repayment programs.
Work Setting. Private practice professionals may earn more overall; however, they also have the responsibility of bearing the costs associated with running their business. In contrast, hospitals and healthcare systems typically offer competitive salaries accompanied by various benefits. Meanwhile, academic or research institutions might provide a lower base pay, but they come with the advantages of prestige, flexibility, and the potential for additional income from grants or consulting opportunities.
Type of Degree. PhD holders may earn slightly more, particularly if working in research, academia, or leadership roles. However, PsyD holders can still earn comparably in clinical and therapy-focused settings.
Specialization. Areas such as neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or health psychology tend to offer higher salaries due to their advanced expertise and demand.
Licensure and Certification. Licensed psychologists who pursue board certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) or other specialty certifications often increase their credibility and earning potential.
Employment Status. Full-time psychologists earn more consistently, while part-time clinicians may have flexible schedules but lower total annual earnings unless supplemented with private practice or side consulting work.

As mentioned, location can be a significant factor contributing to salary. Based on the chart below, Washington ranks as the highest-paying state for clinical psychologists, with an average salary of $124,465, closely followed by the District of Columbia and New York. These salary differences likely reflect regional cost of living, demand for mental health services, and funding levels for healthcare facilities.

Is there a demand for PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology graduates?

There is a strong and increasing demand for both PhD and PsyD graduates in Clinical Psychology, driven by societal, economic, and healthcare trends. Between 2023 and 2033, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 13% growth rate for clinical psychologist jobs, resulting in about 10,200 new roles, significantly faster than the average for other psychology occupations. In 2024, a Statista (2024) survey showed that 16% of U.S. adults were undergoing therapy, up from the previous year, highlighting the growing need for mental health professionals.

Additionally, the U.S. mental health market was valued at $110 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $132 billion by 2033, according to the IMARC Group (2025). This market growth is fueled by increased mental health awareness, reduced stigma, telehealth advancements, expanded insurance coverage, and stronger government support. These trends indicate excellent job prospects and a sustained need for clinically trained psychologists in diverse healthcare and community settings.

How to Choose Between PhD and PsyD?

Choosing between a PhD and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology depends on your long-term career goals, academic interests, and preferred work environment. While both degrees lead to licensure as a clinical psychologist, they differ significantly in focus, training, and outcomes:

Career goals. Choose a PhD if you’re interested in research, teaching, or contributing to academic knowledge. A PsyD is ideal if you want a career focused on direct clinical practice with minimal emphasis on research.
Training model. PhD programs follow the scientist-practitioner model, balancing research and clinical training. PsyD programs follow the practitioner-scholar model, prioritizing hands-on clinical experience over research.
Program structure. PhD programs are often more competitive and research-intensive, offering more funding opportunities. PsyD programs tend to have higher acceptance rates but may come with higher tuition and less financial aid.
Time commitment. PhD programs typically take 5–7 years due to research and dissertation requirements. PsyD programs may be completed in 4–6 years with a stronger emphasis on clinical hours.
Work setting. PhD holders often work in academia, research, or policy development. PsyD graduates usually work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice.

When deciding between a PhD and a PsyD in Clinical Psychology, it's important to consider competitiveness and internship placement success. The data from the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) below shows that more students applied to PsyD programs (22,861) than PhD programs (19,218), yet PhD students had a higher internship match rate (88% vs. 83%).

Since internships are essential for licensure and valuable clinical experience, this slight advantage may appeal to those aiming for highly competitive roles or academic careers. Therefore, if you're drawn to research and teaching and want potentially stronger internship placement odds, a PhD might be the better path. On the other hand, if your goal is to focus on direct clinical practice with broader program availability, a PsyD could be a more accessible and practice-oriented option.

Match Rate for PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology in 2023

Source: APPIC

Key Findings

In 2023, there were approximately 76,800 employed clinical and counseling psychologists in the U.S., with a projected growth rate of 13% through 2033, reflecting increasing demand for mental health services.
The U.S. mental health market was valued at $110 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $132 billion by 2033, driven by rising awareness, reduced stigma, and expanded telehealth access.
Clinical Psychology remains the most common specialty certification by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), with about 30% of licensed psychologists certified in this area.
A PhD in Clinical Psychology generally takes between 5 to 7 years to complete, whereas a PsyD typically requires 4 to 6 years, reflecting the research versus practice-oriented focus of each degree.
The average salary for licensed clinical psychologists in the U.S. is $131,590 annually, with the majority earning between $103,000 (25th percentile) and $149,500 (75th percentile), depending on experience, location, and work setting.

Other Things You Should Know About PhD and PsyD in Clinical Psychology Careers

Is a PhD in psychology the same as clinical psychology?

Not necessarily. A PhD in psychology is a broad degree that can focus on various areas such as cognitive, social, developmental, or clinical psychology. A PhD in Clinical Psychology specifically prepares students to become licensed mental health professionals, combining research and clinical training. Other psychology PhDs may not lead to clinical licensure.

Can you skip a master's and get a PsyD?

Yes, most PsyD programs in the U.S. accept applicants with only a bachelor’s degree, especially those with a background in psychology or a related field. These programs typically incorporate master’s-level coursework into the early years of the PsyD curriculum. However, some students may enter with a master’s degree to strengthen their application or shorten the program duration.

Do you have to write a thesis for a PsyD?

PsyD students are usually required to complete a doctoral project, but not a traditional research-based thesis like PhD students. The doctoral project often involves a clinical case study, program evaluation, or literature review relevant to applied practice. While it requires scholarly work, the emphasis is more on clinical application than original research.

Can I teach at a university with a PsyD?

Yes, PsyD holders can teach at universities, particularly in adjunct, lecturer, or clinical faculty roles. However, tenure-track positions at research-intensive universities may prefer PhD candidates due to their strong research background. PsyD graduates are more commonly found teaching in professional schools or clinical training programs.

References:

ABPP. (2023). ABPP Directory. Retrieved from https://abpp.org/directory/

APPIC. (2023). APPIC match rates 2011–2023 by state. Retrieved from https://www.appic.org/Portals/0/downloads/APPIC_Match_Rates_2011-2023_by_State.pdf

IMARC Group. (2025, March). U.S. mental health market size & growth forecast to 2033. Retrieved from https://www.imarcgroup.com/united-states-mental-health-market

Page, C., Stamm, K., Assefa, M., & Khaddouma, A. (2024, March 1). The most and least common specialty areas for licensed psychologists. Monitor on Psychology, 55(2). Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/03/top-psychology-specialties

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Psychologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. (n.d.). Psychology internship program. Retrieved from https://www.med.unc.edu/psych/education/psychology-internship/