This is a very good article on finding information on graduate school opportunities in the helping professions: http://keep2.sjfc.edu/faculty/tspitzer/helpingProf99.htm I recommend you explore all these professions:
1. Clinical/Counseling Psychologist (Ph.D./Psy.D.)
2. Clinical/Counseling Psychology: Psychological Associate (M.A)
3. College Student Development Professional
4. Counselor(Community)
5. Counselor (School)
6. Creative Arts Therapist (Art, Dance, Drama, & Music Therapists)
7. Health Education/Promotion Specialist
8. Human Resource Development Specialist
9. Occupational Therapist
10. Rehabilitation Counselor/Psychologist
11. School Psychologist
12. Social Worker
13. Special Education Teacher
14. Speech Pathologist
15. Therapeutic Recreation Specialist/Recreational Therapist
If you like Psychology, you may also like many of these professions. It's good to broaden your thinking about it. When you want to "help" people, you are really moving toward the "Healer" archetype. The healer is fully present in many professions. If that is what makes you happy (i.e. is your bliss) then you will find happiness in many areas. Being a psychologist is not necessarily the only way.
Getting a Ph.D./Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and becoming a Psychologist is long road. It is just as difficult if not more so than getting an M.D. so http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifthhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifink about that. Here is a great Article on pursuing a Psy.D.: http://www.psichi.org/pubs/articles/article_171.aspx
.
Here is a great series of articles on preparing for Graduate School: http://www.psichi.org/pubs/search.aspx?category1=7
Ultimately you've got to make a decision on what may lead to your greatest professional fulfillment. Find a profession that is in demand and pays well so you can put bread on your table and feed your self or future family. But if you do what you love, your passion will attract others and determination always finds a way.
Finally, always remember you are MORE than your profession or what you do. Anchor your identity in your family, hobbies, creative pursuits, and your spiritual center first, then you will find that whatever career you choose, it will be truly rewarding!
