Getting Your Doctorate in Counseling, Psychology, and Beyond

Stephanie S. J. Drcar, PhD, is an associate professor of counselor education at Cleveland State University, where she teaches counseling skills to diverse students to better serve an increasingly diverse client population.

“Stephanie Drcar has created an outstanding and accessible resource for anyone considering a doctorate in counseling, psychology, or related fields. This guide helps readers reflect on their goals, values, and motivations for pursuing a doctorate while clearly outlining the differences among doctoral paths and qualities to look for in a program. It presents the complexities and nuances of doctoral-level education in a clear, organized way that makes self-assessment much more manageable. I am grateful to have this book as my go-to recommendation for clinicians and supervisees who are considering the pursuit of a doctorate.”Sara N. Sayre, PhD, psychologist and president of Barbara Fordyce & Associates, LLC“Getting Your Doctorate in Counseling, Psychology, and Beyond is an accessible, well‑structured guide that demystifies doctoral pathways and highlights the many career directions available in the mental‑health field. The book stands out for its integration of perspectives from five professionals who took diverse routes in the field, giving readers an authentic look at the multiple ways a career can unfold. The writing is digestible, thoughtful, and intentionally structured to encourage reflection. Through varied perspectives and thoughtful reflective activities, the book offers students practical clarity and encouragement as they discern their next steps.”Tamarine Foreman, PhD, LPCC-S, associate professor of counseling and higher education, Ohio University“This is a thorough overview of everything master's level clinicians and students need to know as they consider pursuit of a doctorate. Information on a variety of educational and career paths is provided in an unbiased, authentic, and illuminating manner. Dr. Drcar guides readers through honest self-reflection and shares the voices of diverse people who pursue different career paths. This is a thought-provoking, insider read on the variety of paths one might pursue after achieving a master's degree in counseling.”Julia Phillips, PhD, professor of counseling psychology, Cleveland State University

• Section 1: Being Curious About Doctoral Study 1. Introduction To The Guide 2. Understanding Motivations For Doctoral Study 3. Practical Decision Making 4. Achieving Professional Goals Without Doctoral Study Section 2: Understanding The Doctoral Study Options 5. PhD In Clinical Or Counseling Psychology 6. Psy.D In Clinical Or Counseling Psychology 7. PhD In Counselor Education And Supervision 8. Beyond Counseling: Career Redirections For Counselors Section 3: Applying To Doctoral Programs 9. Understanding The Application Process 10. Making Yourself Competitive 11. Making Decisions