what is the best route to take to achieve your doctorate in sociology?

Hi Charmae,

You have asked a great question, and I hope I can be of some assistance. First, are you currently in college, and if so, what are you majoring in? Second, do you plan to join any of the military branches? I think your goals are well needed in our communities, and I applaud you for such interests and long term plans. To keep this simple without having the additional information asked, I would most certainly focus on Psychology more than Sociology. I would get degrees in both or make Sociology a minor at some point. A Bachelor's or Master's in counseling would also be ideal. I would also get as many mental health certifications that you can that directly relate to counseling, those who suffered from combat mentally, and with those who suffer from PTSD. To start your own business(es), you do not need to attain a doctoral degree. You can go as far as your Master's and acquire the appropriate certifications necessary. I personally recommend the doctorate, but it should be thoroughly considered as it can become costly, time consuming, and mentally taxing. But you can do it!!!! It is also worth considering a second Master's in business administration (MBA) for the business side of it.

Here are couple great sites that may be of interest for you, and is specific to your needs.

https://www.ncu.edu/school-of-marriage-and-family-sciences/doctor-of-philosophy-in-marriage-and-family-therapy/therapy-with-military-families

http://www.psychologist-license.com/types-of-psychologists/military-psychologist.html#context/api/listings/prefilter

I hope I was able to help some, and if you need anything else, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. I wish you the best of luck, and I will be looking to see your name out there in the future in the psychological world!! ;)

Hi Charmae,

This is definitely more of a Psychology field than Sociology. It is a very ambitious goal!
It's always nice to own your own business, rather than working for somebody else. However, I encourage you to approach this in measured steps.
First, do everything you can to get experience, right now, even if it means volunteering. The internship will not be enough.Get involved in Special Olympics, etc.
Next, and at the same time, get your schooling, up to the Master's Degree. Get a very solid Business background, as you will need it to continue to the next step.
Before going for your PhD, fully research the programs that already exist, and how they get their funding. Most of these programs succeed with grant funding. Be willing to move to another city, where there is a need for such a program, rather than competing with one that already exists. (unless the one that already exists is not serving the needs of the people).
You will need to know how to write proposals, or else hire someone who can. Get an understanding of "performance metrics." I am not a "business" person, but I do know there is a lot of work involved in making a business successful.

Best of luck to you!
Kim