Do you have to go to England to work in psychology?

rikerdonegal

I'm posting this question on behalf of a friend.

She has been accepted onto the bsc hons in pyschology. She tells me that that's a degree which gets you onto the registrar for pyschologists. But in order to work as one professionally you then have to do a doctorerate in a specified subject, ie. councelling pyschology. And they have told her that that can only be done in England.

She is wondering if there is any other way. Travelling to England is not an option for her, but this is a career she wants to pursue.

She has two weeks to get back to them to accept. But, since doing a degree for the sake of it seems pointless to her, if she can't turn it into employment without have to leave for England first, so she'll let it go if there's no way to advance without moving to England.

Any help/advice gratefully passed on.

Moobui

I don't know where your friend is doing her degree but they have given her inaccurate advice. It is true that a degree in psychology is not a professional qualification and post graduate qualifications are necessary but she would not have to travel to England to obtain such a qualification. Maybe she should have a look at the psi or bps websites for advice.

myusernameis

No you can do conselling psychology in Trinity and a few other universities in Ireland, although its probably more competitive for places in Ireland due to the limited courses so England would probably be a slightly easier option to obtain a place on the course.

Also make sure the degree is accredited either by the British Psychological Society or the Psychological Society of Ireland, it will say it most likely on the website whether it is accredited. A BSc Degree in Psychology won't get you on to the register of psychologists but is only a starting ground which with the necessary work experience,
will provide you an opportunity to gain a place on a postgraduate course. The post grad either clinical or counselling will then allow you the opportunity to be on the list of registered psychologists.

Moobui

Apart from the clinical and counselling routes the Masters in Educational Psychology in UCD and the PhD Ed Psych in Queens are also professional qualifications that will qualify towards registered status in the psi. There are also other post grad routes towards registered status.

The Black Oil

The post of assistant psychologist seems to be more recognised in the UK compared to in Ireland. Some people get this experience under their belt after finishing their undergrad and before going on to professional training.

Obviously one of main things to look out for in terms of a good course is solid accreditation.

Myksyk

There are currently 4 Doctoral Programmes in Clinical Psychology in Ireland running out of NUIG, Trinity, UCD and UL. She can aim for these after she's qualified but all typically require prior post grad work at Masters level and some relevant experience in one of the core areas of Clinical Psychology.

rikerdonegal

Thanks for all these (fast) replies.

I am passing them on.