Trysalandra

I'm applying to PhD programs in clinical and counseling psychology this fall. I'm drawn specifically to a doctoral degree because I would like to do research and teach at the college level at some point in my career. However, I would like to start out as a clinician. Given the level of competition, I realize it's a strong possibility I'll be rejected the first time (or first several times) around. I have heard of people becoming LCSWs and then returning for their PhDs in order to expand their career options. What are your thoughts on this? What would being an LCSW do for a PhD application? Do you foresee any drawbacks? Thank you! (And sorry if this is posted in the wrong place--I'm new here!)