What are Dr. Phil's licenses and credentials?

Is he qualified to be giving the advice he gives?

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Dr. Phil received a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of North Texas--which does not have a very good reputation in this area. His license was suspended for inappropriate conduct with a minor, so he is not currently licensed at all. His dissertation was actually on rheumatoid arthritis, which has nothing to do with psychology.

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posted by Anonymous
You are wrong. His dissertation was "Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Psychological Intervention. " Obviously, it has something to do with psychology. I am not a fan of Dr. Phil but you need to get your facts straight. add a comment

posted by Anonymous
I am an allied health professional. I surely can't give professional advice without a valid license. Where is the APA?? I am appalled thatOprah allows this travesty to continue. Suspension of a professional license is a veryvserious thing. Dr. phil's credibility is in serious question. He meds to address this! add a comment

Reply by McMath (1):
Oh my god, then what the hell is he doing on tv? i can't believe this! if he is not licensed he cannot represent himself like he does on his tv show. this is just irresponsible !!!!!! add a comment

posted by Anonymous
How does this man practice as a qualified dr? making millions??? add a comment

posted by Anonymous
Dr Phil stole his toilet training program called Dr Phils toilet training program from a well known Psychologist named Nathan Azrin. This is a fact add a comment

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Answer by Ginny (2251)

He has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Midwestern State University, and from the University of North Texas he has earned a master's degree in experimental psychology and a PhD in clinical psychology. In 2006 he gave up his license to practice psychology. In 2002 his show was determined to be entertainment, requiring no license.

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Answer by baltimore (23)

Dr. Phil has a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of North Texas. This degree is sufficient qualification for the advice he gives on his television program, despite his official retirement from psychology.

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Answer by Anonymous

I am a psychiatrist licensed and credentialed by the top universities in the country (Harvard & Yale). From an expert standpoint, it is quite disturbing how Dr. Phil blatantly violates professional ethical guidelines, exploits the ignorance of the public, and takes advantage even of Oprah's therapeutic vulnerability--an unfortunate travesty!

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posted by Anonymous
I'm a social worker in a rural area. My clients can see neither a psychiatrist, nor a psychologist without insurance. People with insurance are not watching TV in the afternoon. My clients need someone to empower them to leave abusive relationships and think better of themselves. Better than no one. add a comment

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Answer by Anonymous

I have never been a real fan of Dr. Phil. Now that I have learned about his credentials, or lack thereof, I am appalled. Like Dr. Laura, full disclosure with an explanation of what the story is concerning his credentials should be made to theublic.

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posted by Anonymous
So, he is smart and helps people. His advice is good, and that means more then what he calls himself. add a comment

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Answer by Zoso (869)

Phil McGraw first came to the attention of Oprah Winfrey as a jury-selection consultant. He has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Midwestern State University, a master's in experimental psychology, and a Ph. D in clinical psychology from the University of North Texas. He is qualified.

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Answer by 9munchkins (4)

I think Dr Phil runs on a very solid platform. I like the way the makes people understand the situations and goes out on a limb to help them. bravo!

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Answer by Anonymous

Ethically, he should remove "Dr." from "Dr. Phil".

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Answer by Anonymous

I think Dr. Phil show is a perfect example of garbage TV as the reality shows are as well

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Answer by Anonymous

Clearly not.

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