PsyD Programs in Counseling Psychology: Current Status and Future Directions

Abstract

This article depicts the unique integration of science and practice found in Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs. To dispel myths and provide accurate information about the counseling psychology PsyD degree, survey and interview data from all nine American Psychological Association (APA)–accredited counseling psychology PsyD programs are presented. We argue that embracing PsyD programs within a unified counseling psychology training structure and value system has advantages for the field, including providing a mechanism to foster counseling psychology’s reach and social justice mission. Given the newly-articulated professional competencies of the APA Standards of Accreditation, we also suggest that maintaining counseling psychology training consistency across both Doctor of Philosophy and PsyD programs has the potential to better meet counseling psychologist career trajectories and workforce needs.