What Does It Take to Become a Licensed Psychologist?
Becoming a licensed psychologist is a rewarding career choice that demands dedication, high-level education, and hands-on experience. Many people are drawn to the profession because of their passion for helping others or their interest in understanding human behaviors. Regardless of what drives them, to become licensed, aspiring individuals must undergo a structured path, designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact on others.
One of the requirements to become a licensed psychologist is a doctoral degree with a major in psychology from a regionally accredited educational institution. The American Psychological Association (APA) accredited Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota satisfies that requirement and can help you launch a career in this field. Here, we outline the licensed psychologist requirements and highlight the program offered at Saint Mary’s.
Licensed Psychologist Requirements in Minnesota
A psychologist is a trained professional whose studies include the human mind, behavior, emotions, and mental processes. Individuals with this title use their understanding of psychology to assess, diagnose, and treat clients with various psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulties with relationships, and more.
Psychologists play a vital role in treating various mental health conditions by providing counseling services to help clients manage or overcome their conditions. Beyond treatment, psychologists assist clients with improving their overall well-being, enhancing their personal and professional relationships, building coping skills, and developing emotional resilience. By helping clients understand their thoughts and behaviors, psychology professionals empower individuals to make positive changes in their lives.
The practice of psychology requires licensure, and requirements can vary by state. In Minnesota, according to the state’s Board of Psychology, licensed psychologist requirements include:
- A doctoral degree with a major in psychology from an APA-accredited institution (Degrees from a non-APA institution must comply with all the requirements found in Minnesota Rules, part 7200.1300.)
- Completion of at least one full year (or the equivalent in part-time) of postdoctoral supervised psychological employment (1,800 hours)
- Endorsements from at least two qualified licensed mental health professionals
- A passing score for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) national exam and the Professional Responsibility Examination (PRE) state exam
- If licensed in another jurisdiction, have no unresolved disciplinary action or complaints pending
To maintain a psychology license in Minnesota, psychologists must continue their education and regularly complete additional courses. License renewal is required every two years and involves 40 hours of continuing education (CE) credits.
It is important to note these are licensing requirements for Minnesota and psychology licensing requirements in other states might differ.
Reasons to Pursue Psychology Licensing
Pursuing licensure in the field of psychology offers aspiring psychologists with numerous opportunities and advantages. The benefits of licensure include:
Legal and Ethical Practice
Although each state has its own specific requirements for licensure, all states regulate the practice of psychology and require psychologists to be licensed to practice directly with clients. Licensing ensures that individuals are qualified to provide psychological services and willing to adhere to ethical guidelines that promote client safety and well-being.
Credibility and Professional Recognition
Licensing demonstrates professional credibility and confirms a psychologist meets the standards set by governing bodies. Possessing a psychology license signals to clients and colleagues that you have the necessary skills, experience, and qualifications to practice psychology effectively.
Increased Career Opportunities
Having a license to practice psychology opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities, including those in school settings, hospitals, private practices, government agencies, and other environments that require licensed professionals. Having a vast selection of career opportunities to choose from allows psychologists to enter a specialized field that aligns with their interests and passions.
Higher Earning Potential
Because licensed psychologists provide specialized services and are in high demand, they generally bring home higher salaries than those in non-licensed roles. The median annual wage for psychologists is $92,740, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. A higher earning potential can lead to increased job security and job satisfaction.
About the Psy.D. Program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
The Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology program at Saint Mary’s is one of only two APA-accredited Psy.D. programs in the Midwest. Reserved for those who hold a mental health-related master’s degree, our program cultivates expertise and leadership, keeping with our commitment to the principles of Catholic Lasallian education.
Our five-year Psy.D. in Counseling Psychology program is led by our dedicated team of Ph.D. and Psy.D. core faculty. Students will benefit from their guidance throughout the academic journey, as we ensure they receive a well-rounded and comprehensive education.
In addition to in-depth classroom teachings, students will gain invaluable practical training through an intensive, full-time internship experience. Exposure to professional scenarios in real-world settings will prepare students and serve as a foundation for post-doctoral endeavors. For more information on program courses, browse the course catalog.
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is committed to making investing in your future accessible. We offer assistance with tuition in the form of financial aid and scholarships to students who qualify. We work closely with students to help make the financial commitment to continued education affordable.
Take the Next Steps Toward Becoming a Licensed Psychologist
Begin fulfilling licensed psychologist requirements by enrolling in the Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology program at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Our practitioner-oriented program offers personalized support to ensure you graduate as a qualified and highly skilled professional. Individuals interested in the program can consult our admissions team for further details. Get started today when you request more information about the Psy.D. in Counseling Psychology program at Saint Mary’s.
