Why I Went Back for My PhD as a Psychotherapist
- Ian Hammonds, LMFT-Supervisor, LPC-Supervisor
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
Hello and welcome! If you’re new here, hi! I'm Ian Hammonds. I’m a licensed marriage and family therapist supervisor and licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas. And yes, I made the decision to go back for my PhD after six years of clinical practice. Some people call it dedication; I prefer “a healthy dose of unhinged curiosity.” Either way, here’s what led me to pursue a doctorate after already being licensed and established in the field.
The Journey to Becoming a Psychotherapist
For those curious about the process: to become a psychotherapist, you typically need a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and must complete state licensure requirements, which often include at least two years of supervised clinical practice.
Admittedly, it’s a long journey (usually about five years total beginning school to becoming fully licensed) but incredibly rewarding. I earned my master’s degree in 2016, became a provisionally licensed associate in 2017, and obtained full licensure in 2020 (right in the middle of the pandemic. Because, of course).
What My PhD Means (and What It Doesn’t)
PhD and PsyD programs vary widely. Some are research-focused, others are designed for advanced clinical practice. I’m currently earning my PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy, which means that while I’ll soon hold the title of “doctor,” I won’t be a licensed psychologist.
Here’s the difference in a nutshell:
Psychologists: Doctorate-level clinicians who can assess, diagnose, conduct testing, and often do research or academic work.
Psychotherapists: Clinicians who specialize in emotional processing and relational healing through conversation and connection, not formal assessments.
Both play vital roles in the mental health of clients, but my passion lies in psychotherapy: helping people understand and transform their emotional and relational worlds.
Reason 1: I Fell in Love with the Program
I chose Alliant International University, a school deeply rooted in systemic and emotionally focused therapies—the very approaches that shaped my career. One of my professional heroes, Dr. Sue Johnson, developed Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and her legacy continues to influence the university today. Studying where so many great minds have contributed felt like coming home to the theoretical foundations I love most.
Reason 2: Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice
Many therapists view research as intimidating, but I’ve come to see it as creative and energizing. I’m currently leading a research project on domestic violence in queer partnerships, which directly connects to my clinical passions. As psychotherapists, we have a responsibility to base our work on evidence that reflects the diversity of the clients we serve. Research helps ensure that therapeutic models remain relevant, inclusive, and effective across cultures, identities, and experiences.
Reason 3: I Wasn’t Done Learning
I’ll admit it: I’m a lifelong learner of research, data, and just plain lore. I was even advised not to say that in my PhD interview, but I did anyway (and I still got accepted).
A wise supervisor once told me, “There isn’t a single therapy session I’ve ever done perfectly.” That humility stuck with me. I wanted to dive deeper into the theories that fascinated me (i.e. Bowen, Narrative, Structural, Symbolic-Experiential) and explore how they apply to LGBTQ+ and modern populations. The doctoral journey gives me that chance.
Reason 4: Avoiding Complacency
This one’s personal. While I don’t believe all master’s-level therapists risk complacency, I knew I needed more challenge and structure to keep evolving. Going back for my PhD reignited my motivation and confidence. It also gave me opportunities to record sessions, receive advanced supervision, and refine my skills in ways that traditional continuing education couldn’t match.
Reason 5: I Love Teaching
Teaching has become one of the greatest joys of my doctoral experience. I’ve been able to co-teach and assist in eight graduate-level courses, mentoring future therapists as they learn to apply systemic and attachment-based models. Hearing students make insightful connections reminds me daily why I love this field. With a doctorate, I’ll also be able to pursue professorships and contribute more formally to counselor education.
Reason 6: Increasing My Professional Reach
Earning a doctorate expands opportunities (whether in clinical supervision, conference presentations, or community leadership). It’s not about prestige; it’s about impact.
With PhD-level training, I’ll be qualified to supervise emerging therapists, participate in more research, and serve my community with a broader range of expertise.
Final Thoughts
So yes, I went back for my PhD. Partly because I love to learn, partly because I want to bridge research and clinical practice. And, sure, maybe because I’m just a little “unhinged” in the best possible way.
If you’re a therapist considering the same path, know that the decision doesn’t have to come from burnout or dissatisfaction. It can come from curiosity, passion, and the desire to grow for yourself and for the people you serve.
Interested in following my journey or learning more about emotionally focused and systemic therapy? Stay tuned for future posts! Or reach out if you’d like to connect about therapy, supervision, or professional growth.
Instagram/TikTok: @NewWaveCounseling
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