CalSouthern PsyD (Again and Like Programs)

Just a reminder to anyone considering non APA and online programs like CalSouthern.

If you are simply looking for a PsyD to add to your LPC/LCMH, LCSW, LCDC, etc you don't seem to have much to be concerned about.

If you are trying to become a Clinical Psychologist, it would appear you have up uphill battle.

1) Ensure you check your state requirements and build in your practicum/internship into the program. Pay close attention.

2) If you are thinking of trying the Virginia Applied Psychologist route, make sure you have the 18 hr concentration.

3) Just because your state allows graduates from non APA programs to apply for licensure doesn't mean you will find placement, get supervision, or be licensed. There is prejudice out there from some graduates of APA programs against people from non APA accredited programs and non APA accredited internships (especially when they see online PsyD)

4) Network, Network, Network. You need people who will pull for you and know you. That may mean volunteering at clinics, hospital support groups, and so on. Pick an internship with some future possibilities and people who could assist later. Do well, work hard, and make a good impression. Know your field.

By way of comparison, people attend some of the lesser known Caribbean medical programs and manage to graduate and become US doctors. But it is an uphill battle and you have to work hard and proactively. There was a husband who posted his wife's story about Oceania on SDN. It took longer, cost more, and required monumental effort. She made it into Family Residency (I believe) in the US.

There is another story of a now 62 year old who graduated from a lesser known Caribbean Medical School and secured a residency in the US (Family Medicine). He had a unique story and great experience and worked very hard, knew his goals and convinced the residency program that this was more than a check the box later in life.

Bottom line is be realistic, proactive, and work hard.

 

Thank you to Positive Soul for sharing her detailed experiences and frustrations. That is very helpful information with which to inform those considering the program.

 

@Garp,

I agree with this take - and would add, that CalSouthern's doctoral degree, is, a degree in Psychology, ***with*** the option to take courses that would also meet clinical licensure requirements. So as you indicated some licensed (MSW/MFT/LPC) get the degree for futher knowledge and title, which is great - they could do that with other degrees as well EdD/PhD/DBH ....

However, when a student at such a school indicates they wish to become licensed, they are encouraged to take the Practicum and or Internship. Again, these courses are optional since that is not everyone's goal, it is not required, but is encouraged. The disclosure states that every student (Learner) has to sign is quite explicit about this - so it is unclear why anyone would get a degree to be licensed but not "practice" while in their program.....

The disclosure stated that must be signed prior to enrollment says:
**********************
CalSouthern’s PsyD program does not include a residency requirement and this program is not
accredited by the American Psychological Association. Some jurisdictions require PsyD graduates to have completed a clinical practicum and/or internship in order to be eligible for clinical licensure.

CalSouthern has optional PsyD clinical practicum and optional PsyD internship courses available; however, CalSouthern does not require that learners complete these courses.

Each jurisdiction has specific and unique requirements for clinical licensure. It is the responsibility ofe ach PsyD learner to determine all requirements for clinical licensure in their jurisdiction and in any other jurisdiction under consideration including program accreditation, course and other educational requirements, clinical practicum, internship, residency requirements, and to determine whether the
CalSouthern PsyD program will meet their individual educational and career goals.

By signing this Disclosure, the undersigned agrees that they have read and understand the contents of this Disclosure, and acknowledge that it is their sole responsibility to comply with the rules andr egulations regarding requirements for licensure within any applicable jurisdiction.
********************
Note this disclosure is not that different from some other schools that are on campus, brick and mortar.

All this to say that while I agree of potential difficulties, there are multiple and consistent successes that are easily found by a simple Google and linkedin search, yet the caution, the need to prepare (taking those practice and internship courses at a minimum) and networking is key and truly warranted! CalSouthern offers regular webinars for students/learners to connect with outside professionals and with each other - last one was held 05/22/2024. All in all, it really is the responsibility of the student to take the information provided and apply it accordingly.