Professional doctorates have been established in the allied health professions by clinicians seeking the highest levels of independent practice. Allied health professional doctorates include nursing practice (DNP), occupational therapy (OTD), psychology (PsyD), social work (DSW), and marriage and family therapy (DMFT). Lessons learned from the evolution of professional doctorates in nursing and psychology inform the development of the counseling profession. The doctor of professional counseling (DPC) degree affords opportunities for clinical specialization and parity with other allied health professionals. The DPC is the logical next step in the ongoing professionalization of counseling.
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