Clinical psychology?

[hellothegrrreeeen]

I am a teacher looking to move into a clinical role. Psychology has always interested me and mental health a huge part of teaching.

Would you recommend retraining (Msc Psychology conversion course) and then applying for the clinical psychology doctorate? I know it is very competitive but wonder if anyone else has undertaken this.

TIA

You’ll need an MSc psychology conversion course, as you say. Needs to be a GBR accredited MSc for you to be able to apply for the clinical doctorate so just check before signing up.

The doctorate is super competitive as it’s funded and you will need to have at least 1-2 years of clinical experience (where you’re supervised by a psychologist) before applying. This could be in roles like a research assistant, assistant psychologist, mental health support worker etc. I get you do some of this whilst teaching but you need to have supervision from a psychologist. Have a look on Leeds Clearing House - this is the site that gives info about the various doctorate training centres and what they need to see on an application to proceed it. There are also Facebook groups you can join to get advice too.

There are lots of transferable skills from teaching that would no doubt help you on this journey but probably wouldn’t get you onto the doctorate alone as it’s just so competitive (think 500+ applicants for 25-35 places). So the downside is a probably pay cut whilst transitioning.

DH is a clinical psychologist, it's a long path. As said above Masters conversion, then working as an assistant whilst trying to get on the doctorate course, which is unlikely first time.

How old are you? Do you feel you have approx 8 years to dedicate to training and education on a low salary?