Master’s Degree in Psychology

A master’s degree in psychology can serve a couple of purposes. A more in-depth understanding of psychology can benefit just about any one regardless of what profession the person is in. More specific to psychology though….

It can be a terminal clinical/counseling degree that leads to licensure at the master’s level. These licenses are state-specific, so degree requirements vary. In Texas, as of this writing, one can open their own practice and even accept insurance for mental health services when they are licensed as an LPC or LMFT:

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC): Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT): Texas State Board of Examiners of Marriage and Family Therapists

Not all master’s degrees in psychology lead to licensure as an LPC or LMFT. Depending on the degree plan, a master’s degree in psychology can also serve as the next stepping stone in obtaining a doctorate degree. This type of degree tends to have less credit hours as one leading to licensure, but it generally focuses more on research and typically requires a thesis.

As you can see, a master’s in psychology is not just for those who intend to be a practitioner. It can also be used to become an educator, or work in research.

It would be remiss of me if I didn’t include the licensed social worker options – it is not the same academic pathway, as they require a Master’s in Social Work, but just in case this is something you are interested in, here is the link to the Texas State Board of Social Worker Examiners.