There are a number of professions who work with the concepts and practices of psychology: psychologists psychiatrists, clinical social workers, marriage and families therapists and others. Finding the most appropriate professional can be confusing.

While all of these professions have some degree of training in psychology, with a few exceptions, only PhD and PsyD psychologists have the greatest degree of training specifically devoted to the field of psychological theory, research and practice. 

Many other professionals are loosely called "therapists" or even "psychotherapists." Only those with the Ph.D of PsyD can call themselves "psychologists."

A doctoral degree in psychology typically includes:

> 4 years of full-time study                  

> practicum experience

> 1 full-time year pre-doctoral supervised exp.      

> 1 full-time year post-docoral supervised exp. 

> a doctoral dissertation or equivalent work

Consumers should be aware that there are people who may call themselves psychologists, or imply they are licensed psychologists when they do not have the education, experience or license that is required.

In California, the CA Board of Psychology provides consumers with the status of all licensed psychologists.

You may obtain this information by clicking on the link below. You may also wish to click the link to the SB County Psychological Associations to find Licensed Psychologists in this area.