Physician Assistant or Psychologist?

[wildassignment86]

Hi all, 
I have been accepted into PA school and am starting to have second thoughts. The initial plan was to graduate and specialize in psychiatry. I have an interest in psychology and neurology.  Becoming an MD is out of the question, as I can't move (military family).  I have found one accredited Ph.D. distance program in Clinical Psychology. I have considered going that route but am scared I'll regret not going PA. This time last year, I was thrilled to get an interview.  Is it normal to have cold feet?  Has anyone else made a similar choice? Anyways, thanks for listening. 

[UGoLong]

 

1 hour ago, wildassignment86 said:

Hi all, 
I have been accepted into PA school and am starting to have second thoughts. The initial plan was to graduate and specialize in psychiatry. I have an interest in psychology and neurology.  Becoming an MD is out of the question, as I can't move (military family).  I have found one accredited Ph.D. distance program in Clinical Psychology. I have considered going that route but am scared I'll regret not going PA. This time last year, I was thrilled to get an interview.  Is it normal to have cold feet?  Has anyone else made a similar choice? Anyways, thanks for listening. 

Anytime you are faced with options, it is not surprising to have second thoughts. You only get to take one road (at a time; you can sure change again later on).  Talk to some PAs in psych and some PhD psychologists and see what their lives are like. Then just quiet down, live your life, and the answer will hopefully come to you.

Stay calm and take it a small step at a time.

[wildassignment86]

27 minutes ago, UGoLong said:

 

Anytime you are faced with options, it is not surprising to have second thoughts. You only get to take one road (at a time; you can sure change again later on).  Talk to some PAs in psych and some PhD psychologists and see what their lives are like. Then just quiet down, live your life, and the answer will hopefully come to you.

Stay calm and take it a small step at a time.

Thank you, this was just what I needed to hear. 

[AMD0116]

Hello! 

Im currently an undergraduate student in the same boat. Over the past year I’ve thought becoming a PA was the correct route for me. I’ve always had a love of neuroscience and just started doing some psychology research through school. I’m really enjoying what I’m doing and now I’m second guessing myself. I’m now considering the PsyD/PhD route. I’m just curious to know which direction you decided to go in? What are your recommendations based on what you’ve learned? 

[wildassignment86]

Wow, wild looking at this now, but I went to PA school and decided to leave after three months in. I took a break, and now am going to pursue my true passion, which is psychology. 

 

I suggest you go the psychology route if you want to truly immerse yourself in that field. I am the type of person who likes to specialize in one subject, and I don't mind going to school longer to do so. PA school was too condensed and fast pace for me. 

Edited July 13, 2022 by wildassignment86
Spelling

[EMEDPA]

Be careful with the online PsyD programs. Many are not regionally accredited. 

[wildassignment86]

On 7/9/2022 at 2:02 PM, EMEDPA said:

Be careful with the online PsyD programs. Many are not regionally accredited. 

That's true. I appreciate you looking out.