Hi, my son has applied for a pHd in Clinical Psychology and has failed to get on three times. He has been an Assistant Psychologist for three years and has done well in both roles and has a first and a masters degree. I know that it is very competitive but I think the whole process is really harsh and the system very opaque - they get little feedback as to why they have been rejected. I feel that he has travelled along a cul-de -sac and that had he chosen another career, would be well established by this stage. He is very frustrated and doesn't know what route to take now. I don't think he will apply again. Would it be worth paying for career advisor support or contacting recruitment companies? As there is a shortage of Clinical Psychologists, I don't really understand why only 18% of applicants get places.