According to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Clinical Psychologists and Counselors are unevenly distributed throughout the country. The data on Table 1 shows that of the regions located around West Liberty University (Middle Atlantic, East North Central, South Atlantic, and East South Central) non-metropolitan counties, 30% of counties operate without a practicing psychologist.  Knowing of the shortage of healthcare professionals in these regions, West Liberty University’s Clinical Psychology and Counseling programs can help you develop the skills to open your own practice.   

Although Clinical Psychology and Counseling are similar fields, the main differences reside in the methodologies behind the two studies.  

Clinical Psychology is the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and behavioral health for individuals or families. With a focus on sympathetic understanding, the discipline focuses on disorders, including learning disabilities, substance abuse, and anxiety. It offers assistance to people and families from all ethnic, social, and financial backgrounds. Clinical Psychologists often work toward deeper integration with other healthcare fields to practice treatment and individual factors such as teaching in medical schools and hospitals. 

Counseling is the assistance and guidance in resolving personal, social, or psychological difficulties. It typically takes place with one or more participants, like couples, families, or small groups. The objective of counseling is to develop a confiding relationship – a space of mutual trust, where the guided can communicate their contemplations and sentiments to explain their circumstance, grapple with the experience, see their trouble all the more calmly, or face the issue with more confidence. Group counseling is even possible with the goal of helping find solutions for many who face the same challenges and enhance the overall personal and interpersonal success of group members. The overall goals are to develop mindfulness and self-acknowledgment, to teach patients to control impulses, and expand upon thankfulness and caring actions for others.  

Clinical Psychology concentrates on patients of all ages with more substantial needs, while Counselors have a greater focus on healthier individuals with fewer pathologies. Counseling programs tend to emphasize more diverse training and a more rounded education. No matter which path, both programs are meant to help individuals learn, develop, and improve their well-being while teaching them different methods to do so.  

There are a variety of licenses one can earn by obtaining a Master’s degree in psychology, such as counselor, therapist, psychological technician, and more. Whether you are a student seeking a professional license as a psychologist, looking to pursue a doctorate in psychology, or a mental health practitioner who is looking to advance their career, West Liberty University is a great choice. The M.A. in Clinical Psychology from West Liberty University is an affordable program that gives you all the tools you need to excel as a licensed psychologist.