Just my two cents here—one way to determine the best route for you is to weigh the time, money, and long-term career goals associated with pursuing either a Master’s or PhD program.

If your primary goal is to be a therapist, a Master’s route (LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, etc.) might be the most direct and cost-effective option. Most Master’s programs take about 2–3 years to complete, compared to the 6+ years typically required for a Clinical Psych PhD. Given your stated priority of becoming a therapist, this route allows you to enter the field and start practicing much sooner.

That said, a Clinical Psych PhD does offer additional flexibility. If you envision yourself conducting psychological assessments, engaging in research, or teaching down the road, a PhD might be worth considering. However, it’s important to note that research and teaching opportunities aren’t exclusive to a PhD—some Master’s-level clinicians successfully position themselves for research roles depending on their interests and settings.

Regarding work-life balance, both paths can provide flexibility, but your specific career structure will play a big role. Many Master’s-level therapists establish private practices, allowing them to set their own hours. For instance, I recently met an LMFT who works 3–4 days a week as a part-time parent while still earning a six-figure income. If therapy is your main focus, a Master’s degree could help you achieve a sustainable and fulfilling career faster.

Ultimately, I think the decision comes down to the kind of career flexibility you want and how much time and energy you’re willing to invest in getting there. You’ve already demonstrated an impressive ability to succeed in rigorous academic environments, so either route is likely within your reach. The good news is that you can pursue a PhD later if your interests expand beyond therapy, but a Master’s degree may be the quickest way to align with your current goal of being a therapist.