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Can a Forensic Psychologist also be a Clinical Psychologist at the same time?
#psychology #psychologist #clinical-psychology
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Peter’s Answer
Not only can a psychologist be both, but a Forensic Psychologist must posses similar clinical skill as a Clinical Psychologist. As others have stated a Clinical Psychologist in most states is a doctorate-level, licensed practitioner generally engaged in clinical services such as assessment (psych evals) or treatment (therapy). Not every state has the same definitions but in some states a licensed psychologist asserts their areas of competence. Nearly everyone who obtains a PsyD and a license becomes a Clinical Psychologist. Additional specialties are often electives within the doctorate program. One of these specialties could be forensic psychology.
A Forensic Psychologist conducts evaluations or gives expert testimony for legal proceedings; often Forensic Psychologists have sought board certification (ABPP). Since the expertise the Forensic Psychologist provides depends on their clinical knowledge, they would also essentially be qualified as a Clinical Psychologist. A forensic psychologist may or may not continue to have therapy clients or provide non-forensic evaluations. A clinical psychologist might be able to do an assessment for a legal proceeding. Many psychologists have more than one job.
A Forensic Psychologist conducts evaluations or gives expert testimony for legal proceedings; often Forensic Psychologists have sought board certification (ABPP). Since the expertise the Forensic Psychologist provides depends on their clinical knowledge, they would also essentially be qualified as a Clinical Psychologist. A forensic psychologist may or may not continue to have therapy clients or provide non-forensic evaluations. A clinical psychologist might be able to do an assessment for a legal proceeding. Many psychologists have more than one job.
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Yes, a clinical psychologist can work in forensics.
For my breadth requirement in my doctoral program, I did my internship at a state hospital. I worked on Incompetent to stand trial, mentally disordered sex offender, and not guilty by reason of insanity units. I learned how to give expert testimony and many other things.
Going into forensics with a clinical psychology degree is beneficial because it doesn't lock you into forensics for your entire career should you want to change in the future. And you get the opportunity to see psychopathology in a way you will not likely experience in most settings.
I stayed in the field for about 9 years. It was rewarding, challenging and sometimes a little dangerous. Good luck on your journey.
Dr. A in New Mexico.
For my breadth requirement in my doctoral program, I did my internship at a state hospital. I worked on Incompetent to stand trial, mentally disordered sex offender, and not guilty by reason of insanity units. I learned how to give expert testimony and many other things.
Going into forensics with a clinical psychology degree is beneficial because it doesn't lock you into forensics for your entire career should you want to change in the future. And you get the opportunity to see psychopathology in a way you will not likely experience in most settings.
I stayed in the field for about 9 years. It was rewarding, challenging and sometimes a little dangerous. Good luck on your journey.
Dr. A in New Mexico.
Updated
Ian’s Answer
I want to start saying I am no expert in this but I hope this information help.
"Professional Path
Upon graduation, those with undergraduate degrees in clinical psychology may begin their careers with entry-level work as psychiatric technicians, school counselors, or community service specialists. To become clinical psychologists, they must go on to earn at least a master’s degree, though most positions require a PhD. During their advanced studies, aspiring clinical psychologists see patients in supervised settings under the eye of experienced doctors. After completing their clinical training, they must become licensed, a process that varies from state to state.
After earning a bachelor’s degree, forensic psychology graduates typically step into very different entry-level positions. Postgraduate opportunities may include work in social service as a victim advocate or with some additional training, work in law enforcement or corrections, often as a probation or corrections officer. Aspiring forensic psychologists must also earn an advanced degree and become licensed in their states."
Please see the link I found below and I hope this help.
https://online.maryville.edu/blog/forensic-psychology-vs-clinical-psychology/
"Professional Path
Upon graduation, those with undergraduate degrees in clinical psychology may begin their careers with entry-level work as psychiatric technicians, school counselors, or community service specialists. To become clinical psychologists, they must go on to earn at least a master’s degree, though most positions require a PhD. During their advanced studies, aspiring clinical psychologists see patients in supervised settings under the eye of experienced doctors. After completing their clinical training, they must become licensed, a process that varies from state to state.
After earning a bachelor’s degree, forensic psychology graduates typically step into very different entry-level positions. Postgraduate opportunities may include work in social service as a victim advocate or with some additional training, work in law enforcement or corrections, often as a probation or corrections officer. Aspiring forensic psychologists must also earn an advanced degree and become licensed in their states."
Please see the link I found below and I hope this help.
https://online.maryville.edu/blog/forensic-psychology-vs-clinical-psychology/
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hi there. So just so you know, I am not a clinical psychologist, however I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have extensive experience in both forensic and clinical psychology.
Essentially, a clinical psychologist is someone with a doctoral level degree in clinical psychology AND they are licensed to practice in their respective state. You need both to practice. You do not need both to work.
As a forensic psychologist, you may end up needing the license anyway. I would specifically email or look at graduate programs like John Jay in New York City and reach out to them with some specific questions. They will be familiar and should be able to answer this directly to you and provide you with additional referrals.
Best of luck
Essentially, a clinical psychologist is someone with a doctoral level degree in clinical psychology AND they are licensed to practice in their respective state. You need both to practice. You do not need both to work.
As a forensic psychologist, you may end up needing the license anyway. I would specifically email or look at graduate programs like John Jay in New York City and reach out to them with some specific questions. They will be familiar and should be able to answer this directly to you and provide you with additional referrals.
Best of luck
Updated
Janet’s Answer
Yes, as long as you have training in both fields you may be both a forensic and clinical psychologist.