I've been lurking the forum for quite a while. I just recently joined. I'm working on a BSLS from excelsior. My plans were to attend Amberton University, and do a counseling class heavy MA in professional development. I want to prep myself for a possible career as a psychologist. APA accredited programs are my highest priority, but getting there has left me with a lot of questions. I just noticed a few post doc clinical respecialization programs, so I might go that route if I can find an RA/equivalent Ph.D. for me, But this is all wishful thinking. I am 24. I have been in the military for three years. I am not loving it (Mainly due to my position and a lot of the people I work with), but I'm making steps to change things. I just came to the realization that I was not progressing as a person, and that I hope to one day overcome my own mental anguish so that I may help others. I mostly have questions about accreditation (Just noticed the whole international to RA conversion thing), new psych programs, experiences, and the like. Should I reach my goals, I would definitely like to stick around and help others out. Thank you for reading.
Welcome! Keep in mind that the American Psychological Association only accredits doctoral programs, so what you should be looking at for at the Master's level is regional accreditation plus a program that meets your state's licensing requirements for a Master's level clinician (the term is Licensed Mental Health Counselor - LMHC - in Massachusetts). Most states require 60 credits (some only 48), courses in specific areas, and a minimum number of supervised internship hours. At the doctoral level, APA accreditation is the "gold standard" and will qualify you for licensure as a psychologist in all 50 states, but some states will accept some RA but non-APA schools that meet minimum state standards.
