Hello! I’m hoping I can get some guidance/advice on what direction I should head in next.
I recently graduated in December 2021 with my B.A. in forensic psychology. I was originally under the impression that I absolutely needed a doctorate in order to do what I want to do. I do know that in order to be a legitimate forensic psychologist, this absolutely is the case (I am based in the U.S.). However, I have no idea if there is another potential route.
I thought maybe I would pursue a LMHC or LSW, but I have no interest in counseling/therapy/treatment. My main interest is analysis (e.g., evaluation and assessment, diagnosis). Within the intersection of psychology and law, this would be responsibilities such as record review, interviewing, collateral contacts, and neuropsychological/psychological testing.
Is this something that could be accomplished with only a M.A./M.S.? If so, what would the process be? What additional certification would I need? After applying to only one doctor of psychology program, I have realized how woefully unprepared I was. I’ve not had much guidance (if any) throughout this entire process/the entirety of my B.A. program. My academic advisor and the career center at my school were pretty useless when it came to informing me of what I should have been doing during my program (e.g., research, internship, finding a mentor, etc). Now I feel really overwhelmed with the sheer amount of information I’ve been ingesting by researching everything by myself. It almost feels like I’m starting all over even though I’ve already obtained my undergraduate degree.
I would love to obtain a PsyD or PhD. However, if it isn’t a mandatory requirement to do what I want to do, then I definitely want to explore my other options first (if there are any). Any information or advice anyone can provide will be so immensely appreciated. This obviously isn’t completely specific to forensic psychology, so I’d love feedback from really anyone who can offer some. Thank you if you’ve read this far!