Ph.D. vs Psy.D.

Dear Dr. Bob,
I am searching for a therapist and I see people who have a Ph.D. and a Psy.D. What's the difference and which one makes a better therapist?
Julie, Mill Valley

Dear Julie,
There are some significant differences between the two degrees, which may have little to do with who is a better therapist. The abbreviation Ph.D. comes from the latin word "Philosophiae Doctor" or Doctor of Philosophy. Although some universities around the world still use the abbreviation Dr. Phil., it morphed into Philosophy Doctorate (or Ph.D.) in this country in the mid 1800s. The Ph.D. is granted to someone who has done original research and can be awarded in almost any field. The outcome of the research is producing a dissertation of significant depth and breadth (like a book) that expands knowledge in that field.


If the Doctorate is not in Philosophy, it is still called a Ph.D. with a focus or concentration in the field it is being awarded. A Ph.D. in psychology  is a Doctorate of Philosophy with a concentration in psychology and a focus on research.


The Psy.D. is a doctorate of Psychology with a focus on clinical work.  It was originated 20 years ago or more, because most psychologists do clinical work and not research. The focus of a Psy.D. degree is to become a better therapist through an educational curriculum that focuses on psychotherapy. Those obtaining a Psy. D. have to meet the same number of educational requirements as a Ph.D., including a thesis.


All therapists need to have a license to practice privately. They could be a licensed clinical psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist or a licensed clinical social worker. The later two licenses need to have a Master's Degree and licensed clinical psychologist needs to have either a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Having clarified the difference between the two doctoral degess, the important issue in therapy is the "fit". Most research, in spite of theory used, says the relationship between the client and the therapist determines the best progress and outcome.. Therefore a good therapist may have a master's degree and a MFT or LCSW license, for instance, and be a better fit than a therapist with more education or a clinical psycholgist license.


The best way to find a therapist is to talk with a friend or family member who has had a good experience, regardless of which degree or license. See if the therapist specializes or is very familiar with you issues. Try to get a "sense" over the phone as to whether you feel comfortable. Some therapists will give a free consultation to see if the "fit" works both ways. Good luck in your search!
Dr. Bob