psychologist

In Australia, the psychology profession, and the use of the title "psychologist", is regulated by an Act of Parliament, the Health Practitioner Regulation (Administrative Arrangements) National Law Act 2008, following an agreement between state and territorial governments. Under this national law, registration of psychologists is administered by the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA).[http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/ Psychology Board of Australia]. Psychologyboard.gov.au. Retrieved on 22 November 2011. Before July 2010, the professional registration of psychologists was governed by various state and territorial Psychology Registration Boards.{{cite web|url=http://www.psychreg.health.nsw.gov.au/|title=Psychology Council of New South Wales|website=www.psychreg.health.nsw.gov.au|access-date=13 September 2007|archive-date=31 August 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070831163620/http://www.psychreg.health.nsw.gov.au/|url-status=dead}} The Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) oversees education standards for the profession.

The minimum requirements for general registration in psychology, including the right to use the title "psychologist", are an APAC approved four-year degree in psychology followed by either a two-year master's program or two years of practice supervised by a registered psychologist.{{cite web|author=The Australian Psychological Society (APS)|date=July 2010|url=https://www.psychology.org.au/studentHQ/studying/study-pathways/|title=Australian Psychological Society : Study pathways|access-date=12 July 2016|author-link=Australian Psychological Society|archive-date=15 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160715184408/http://www.psychology.org.au/studentHQ/studying/study-pathways|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|author=The Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA)|date=24 May 2016|url=http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/Registration/General.aspx|title=Psychology Board of Australia – General registration|access-date=12 July 2016|author-link=Australian Psychology Accreditation Council}} However, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is currently in the process of phasing out the 4 + 2 internship pathway.{{cite web|url=https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/News/2019-05-24-retirement-of-the-4-plus-2-internship-pathway.aspx |title=Retirement of the 4+2 internship pathway to general registration |publisher=Psychologyboard.gov.au |date=24 May 2019 |access-date=3 January 2020}} Once the 4 + 2 pathway is phased out, a master's degree or PhD will be required to become a psychologist in Australia. This is because of concerns about public safety, and to reduce the burden of training on employers.{{cite web|url=https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/Registration/Provisional/Retirement-of-4-2-internship.aspx |title=Retirement of the 4+2 internship program |publisher=Psychologyboard.gov.au |date=7 October 2019 |access-date=3 January 2020}} There is also a '5 + 1' registration pathway, including a four-year APAC approved degree followed by one year of postgraduate study and one year of supervised practice.{{Cite news|url=https://www.findmypathway.com/psychology/psychology-internships/|title=Psychology Internship Pathways – Find My Pathway|work=Find My Pathway|access-date=29 September 2018|language=en-US}}{{cite web|url=https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/registration/provisional/5-1-internship-program.aspx|title=Psychology Board of Australia – 5+1 internship program|website=www.psychologyboard.gov.au|language=en|access-date=29 September 2018}} Endorsement within a specific area of practice{{efn|e.g. clinical neuropsychology, clinical, community, counselling, educational and developmental, forensic, health, organisational or sport and exercise}} requires additional qualifications.{{cite web|url=http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/Endorsement.aspx |title=Psychology Board of Australia – Endorsement |publisher=Psychologyboard.gov.au |date=1 July 2010 |access-date=13 August 2012}} These notations are not "specialist" titles (Western Australian psychologists could use "specialist" in their titles during a three-year transitional period from 17 October 2010 to 17 October 2013).[http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/documents/default.aspx?record=WD10/3764&dbid=AP&chksum=zRjgqyUmQ4luixdLF8nTCA== Specialist titles – Transition provisions for Western Australia psychologists] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515002114/http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/documents/default.aspx?record=WD10%2f3764&dbid=AP&chksum=zRjgqyUmQ4luixdLF8nTCA%3d%3d |date=15 May 2013 }} {{citation |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110404070312/https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/documents/default.aspx?record=WD10%2f3764&dbid=AP&chksum=zRjgqyUmQ4luixdLF8nTCA%3d%3d |archive-date=4 April 2011 |title=Specialist titles: Transition provisions for Western Australia psychologists |publisher=Psychology Board of Australia |date=15 November 2010 |url=https://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/documents/default.aspx?record=WD10%2f3764&dbid=AP&chksum=zRjgqyUmQ4luixdLF8nTCA%3d%3d |format=PDF |url-status=dead }} Originally made available at: {{cite web|url=http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/News/Western-Australia-psychologists-Transition-provisions-update.aspx|title=Western Australia psychologists transition: Statement from the Psychology Board of Australia|website=Psychology Board of Australia|publisher=Ahpra|date=15 November 2010|access-date=23 November 2016}}{{cite web|author=The Australian Psychological Society|date=2 July 2013|url=https://www.psychology.org.au/Assets/Files/18October2013-PsyBA-deadline-cessation-of-use-of-specialist-title.pdf|title=Cessation of use of specialist titles in Western Australia|access-date=23 November 2016|author-link=Australian Psychological Society|archive-date=4 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170404005635/http://www.psychology.org.au/Assets/Files/18October2013-PsyBA-deadline-cessation-of-use-of-specialist-title.pdf|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|author=Psychology Board of Australia|date=17 October 2013|url=http://www.psychologyboard.gov.au/News/2013-10-17-specialist-title.aspx|title=Specialist title transition period for WA psychologists is ending|access-date=23 November 2016|author-link=Australian Psychology Accreditation Council}}

Membership with the Australian Psychological Society (APS) differs from registration as a psychologist. The standard route to full membership (MAPS) of the APS usually requires four years of APAC-accredited undergraduate study, plus a master's or doctorate in psychology from an accredited institution. An alternate route is available for academics and practitioners who have gained appropriate experience and made a substantial contribution to the field of psychology.

Restrictions apply to all individuals using the title "psychologist" in all states and territories of Australia. However, the terms "psychotherapist", "social worker", and "counselor" are currently self-regulated, with several organizations campaigning for government regulation.{{efn|e.g. Australian Counseling Association and Psychotherapy and Counseling Federation of Australia}}

Since 1933, the title "psychologist" has been protected by law in Belgium. It can only be used by people who are on the National Government Commission list. The minimum requirement is the completion of five years of university training in psychology (master's degree or equivalent). The title of "psychotherapist" is not legally protected. As of 2016, Belgian law recognizes the clinical psychologist as an autonomous health profession. It reserves the practice of psychotherapy to medical doctors, clinical psychologists and clinical orthopedagogists.[http://www.efpa.eu/professional-development/belgiumthe-new-law-on-mental-health-professions Belgium: New Law On Mental Health Professions] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517005723/http://www.efpa.eu/professional-development/belgiumthe-new-law-on-mental-health-professions |date=17 May 2018 }} April 2018

A professional in the U.S. or Canada must hold a graduate degree in psychology (MA, Psy.D., Ed.D., or Ph.D.), or have a provincial license to use the title "psychologist".

Provincial regulators include:{{cite web |title=Provincial and Territorial Regulatory Bodies - Canadian Psychological Association |url=https://cpa.ca/public/whatisapsychologist/regulatorybodies/ |website=cpa.ca/public |publisher=Canadian Psychological Association |access-date=2 December 2022 |date=10 August 2018}}

• Alberta: College of Alberta Psychologists
• British Columbia: College of Psychologists of British Columbia
• Manitoba: Psychological Association of Manitoba
• Newfoundland and Labrador: Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board
• New Brunswick: College of Psychologists of New Brunswick
• Northwest Territories: Office of the Registrar, Northwest Territories (NWT) Professional Licensing
• Nova Scotia: Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology
• Nunavut: Registrar, Professional Licensing Kugluktuk
• Ontario: College of Psychologists of Ontario
• Prince Edward Island: Prince Edward Island Psychologists Registration Board
• Quebec: Order of Psychologists of Quebec
• Saskatchewan: Saskatchewan College of Psychologists

A professional psychologist in the Dominican Republic must have a suitable qualification and be a member of the Dominican College of Psychologists.{{Cite web |title=Solicitud de Exequátur |url=https://mescyt.gob.do/servicios/solicitud-de-exequatur/ |access-date=2022-08-16 |website=Ministerio de Educación Superior, Ciencia y Tecnología |language=es}}

In Finland, the title "psychologist" is protected by law. The restriction for psychologists (licensed professionals) is governed by National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Finland) (Valvira).[http://www.valvira.fi/web/en/healthcare/professional_practice_rights Professional practice rights] 12 December 2008 by valvira.fi It takes 330 ECTS-credits (about six years) to complete the university studies (master's degree). There are about 6,200 licensed psychologists in Finland.[http://www.psyli.fi/inenglish Finnish Psychological Association – Welcome] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170311155243/http://www.psyli.fi/inenglish |date=11 March 2017 }} psyli.fi

In Germany, the use of the title {{Lang|de|Diplom-Psychologe}} (Dipl.-Psych.) is restricted by law, and a practitioner is legally required to hold the corresponding academic title, which is comparable to a M.Sc. degree and requires at least five years of training at a university. Originally, a diploma degree in psychology awarded in Germany included the subject of clinical psychology. With the Bologna-reform, this degree was replaced by a master's degree. The academic degree of {{Lang|de|Diplom-Psychologe}} or M.Sc. (Psychologie) does not include a psychotherapeutic qualification, which requires three to five years of additional training. The psychotherapeutic training combines in-depth theoretical knowledge with supervised patient care and self-reflection units. After having completed the training requirements, psychologists take a state-run exam, which, upon successful completion (Approbation), confers the official title of "psychological psychotherapist" ({{Lang|de|Psychologischer Psychotherapeut}}).{{cite web|url=http://www.bdp-verband.org/profession/index.html|title=BDP – Profession|access-date=15 August 2016}} After many years of inter-professional political controversy, non-physician psychotherapy was given an adequate legal foundation through the creation of two new academic healthcare professions.Vangermain D., Brauchle G. (2010). [https://www.karger.com/ProdukteDB/miscArchiv/000/312/759/000312759_sm_eversion.pdf A Long Way to Professionalism: The History of the German Psychotherapy Law] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921033220/https://www.karger.com/ProdukteDB/miscArchiv/000/312/759/000312759_sm_eversion.pdf |date=21 September 2016 }}. (English Version of) Verhaltenstherapie, 20(2), 93–100.

Since 1979, the title "psychologist" has been protected by law in Greece. It can only be used by people who hold a relevant license or certificate, which is issued by the Greek authorities, to practice as a psychologist. The minimum requirement is the completion of university training in psychology at a Greek university, or at a university recognized by the Greek authorities.{{cite web |title=Ανακοίνωση του Διοικητικού Συμβουλίου του Συλλόγου Ελλήνων Ψυχολόγων |trans-title=Announcement of the Board of Directors of the Association of Greek Psychologists |url=http://www.seps.gr/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=204:announcement&catid=69:2011&Itemid=298 |date=19 April 2011 |website=Association of Greek Psychologists |language=el |access-date=27 June 2019}} Psychologists in Greece are legally required to abide by the Code of Conduct of Psychologists (2019).{{cite web |title=Κώδικας Δεοντολογίας Ψυχολόγων |trans-title=Code of Ethics for Psychologists |url=https://www.taxheaven.gr/laws/circular/view/id/31082 |date=18 June 2019 |website=Tax Heaven |language=el |access-date=27 June 2019}} Psychologists in Greece are not required to register with any psychology body in the country in order to legally practice the profession.[http://www.icps.edu.gr/css/default/templates/event/article.php?lng=1&cat=1033&doc=1059 «ΔΟΑΤΑΠ: Διευκρίνιση για το Ρόλο του»] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924055626/http://www.icps.edu.gr/css/default/templates/event/article.php?lng=1&cat=1033&doc=1059 |date=2020-09-24 }} Titles such as "psychotherapist" or "counselor" are not protected by law in Greece and anyone may call themselves a "psychotherapist" or "counselor" without having earned a graduate degree in psychology.{{Cite web |url=http://www.psychologynow.gr/koinonia/anakoinosi-toy-syllogoy-ellinon-psyhologon-peri-epaggelmatos-toy-psyhologoy |title=Psychology Now |accessdate=2015-11-01 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151109232352/http://www.psychologynow.gr/koinonia/anakoinosi-toy-syllogoy-ellinon-psyhologon-peri-epaggelmatos-toy-psyhologoy |archivedate=2015-11-09 |url-status=dead }}

In India, "clinical psychologist" is specifically defined in the Mental Health Act, 2017.[https://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Mental%20Health/Mental%20Healthcare%20Act,%202017.pdf Mental Healthcare Act, 2017] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807224321/https://www.prsindia.org/uploads/media/Mental%20Health/Mental%20Healthcare%20Act,%202017.pdf |date=7 August 2020 }}, chap. I, §2(1)(g). An MPhil in Clinical Psychology degree of two years duration recognized by the Rehabilitation Council of India is required to apply for registration as a clinical psychologist. PsyD and Professional diploma in Clinical Psychology is also a less popular way to get license of Clinical Psychologist in India. This procedure has been criticized by some stakeholders since clinical psychology is not limited to the area of rehabilitation.{{cite web|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347444539 |title=Quest For The Elusive: Regulatory Needs And Efforts In Psychology In India |date= |accessdate=27 February 2022}}Raghuraman, Shruti. [https://science.thewire.in/health/mental-health-literacy-social-media-mhca-rci-accreditation/ What You Need to Know Before You Look for Mental Health Support on Social Media]. The Wire Science (15 July 2020).{{cite web|url=https://www.prsindia.org/sites/default/files/bill_files/Standing%20Committee%20Report%20Summary%20-%20Allied%20Bill.pdf |title = Home {{pipe}} PRSIndia}} Titles such as "counselor", "psychoanalyst", "psychoeducator" or "psychotherapist" are not protected at present. In other words, an individual may call themselves a "psychotherapist" or "counselor" without having any recognized degree from Rehabilitation council of India and without having to register with the Rehabilitation Council of India. Rehabilitation psychologists also require a license from RCI to practice. Psychologs magazine is the major media, working on mental health awareness. Tele-MANAS is a nationwide governmental program launched by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2021.{{cite web |title=Community Mental-Health Digital platform MANAS launched by the Principal Scientific Adviser |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1711860 |website=pib.gov.in}}

In New Zealand, the use of the title "psychologist" is restricted by law. Prior to 2004, only the title "registered psychologist" was restricted to people qualified and registered as such. However, with the proclamation of the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act, in 2003, the use of the title "psychologist" was limited to practitioners registered with the New Zealand Psychologists Board. The titles "clinical psychologist", "counseling psychologist", "educational psychologist", "intern psychologist", and "trainee psychologist" are similarly protected.{{cite web|url=http://www.psychologistsboard.org.nz/what-psychologists-do2/use-of-the-title-psychologist|title=Use of the title "Psychologist"|website=www.psychologistsboard.org.nz|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170914063309/http://www.psychologistsboard.org.nz/what-psychologists-do2/use-of-the-title-psychologist|url-status=dead}} This is to protect the public by providing assurance that the title-holder is registered and therefore qualified and competent to practice, and can be held accountable. The legislation does not include an exemption clause for any class of practitioner (e.g., academics, or government employees).

In Norway, the title "psychologist" is restricted by law and can only be obtained by completing a six-year integrated program, leading to the Candidate of Psychology degree. Psychologists are considered health personnel, and their work is regulated through the "health personnel act".{{cite web|title=Educated abroad, but want to practice as a psychologist in Norway?|url=https://www.psykologforeningen.no/foreningen/english/educated-abroad-but-want-to-practice-as-a-psychologist-in-norway}}

File:Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela.jpg]]

In South Africa,Sourced from the Departments of Psychology: [http://www.psychology.uct.ac.za/psy/graduateprogrammes/overview/ University of Cape Town], [http://www.wits.ac.za/umthombo/psychology/7311/home.html University of the Witwatersrand] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928033017/http://www.wits.ac.za/umthombo/psychology/7311/home.html |date=28 September 2011 }}, [http://www.unisa.ac.za/Default.asp?Cmd=ViewContent&ContentID=14025 University of South Africa] psychologists are qualified in either clinical, counseling, educational, organizational, or research psychology.

As below, qualification requires at least five years of study, and at least one of internship.

To become qualified, one must complete a recognized master's degree in Psychology, an appropriate practicum at a recognized training institution,[http://www.hpcsa.co.za/Uploads/editor/UserFiles/downloads/education_training/psych/psychology_accredited_universities_feb.pdf List of accredited universities in South Africa] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210090821/http://www.hpcsa.co.za/Uploads/editor/UserFiles/downloads/education_training/psych/psychology_accredited_universities_feb.pdf |date=10 December 2014 }}, Professional Board for Psychology and take an examination set by the Professional Board for Psychology.[http://www.hpcsa.co.za/board_psychology.php Professional Board for Psychology] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110621011213/http://www.hpcsa.co.za/board_psychology.php |date=21 June 2011 }}. HPCSA. Retrieved on 22 November 2011. Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)[http://www.hpcsa.co.za/ HPCSA]. HPCSA. Retrieved on 22 November 2011. is required and includes a Continuing Professional Development component.

The practicum usually involves a full year internship, and in some specializations, the HPCSA requires completion of an additional year of community service. The master's program consists of seminars, coursework-based theoretical and practical training, and a dissertation of limited scope, and is (in most cases) two years in duration.

Prior to enrolling in the master's program, the student studies psychology for three years as an undergraduate (B.A. or B.Sc., and, for organizational psychology, also B.Com.), followed by an additional postgraduate honours degree in psychology; see List of universities in South Africa.

The undergraduate B.Psyc. is a four-year program integrating theory and practical training, and—with the required examination set by the Professional Board for Psychology—is sufficient for practice as a psychometrist or counselor.[http://www.psyssa.com/divisions/documents/psychshare_carinnakrantz.pdf BA Hons vs BPsych] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210131935/http://www.psyssa.com/divisions/documents/psychshare_carinnakrantz.pdf |date=10 December 2014 }}, Psychological Society of South Africa

In the UK, "registered psychologist" and "practitioner psychologist" are protected titles.{{cite web|url=https://www.hcpc-uk.org/aboutregistration/professions/index.asp?id=14|title=HCPC – Health Professions Council – Practitioner psychologists |date=4 April 2018 |access-date=5 April 2018}} The title of "neuropsychologist" is not protected. In addition, the following specialist titles are also protected by law: "clinical psychologist", "counselling psychologist", "educational psychologist", "forensic psychologist", "health psychologist", "occupational psychologist" and "sport and exercise psychologist".[http://www.hpc-uk.org/apply/psychologists/ HCPC – Health Professions Council – Becoming registered as a practitioner psychologist] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101219172052/http://www.hpc-uk.org/apply/psychologists/ |date=19 December 2010 }}. Hpc-uk.org. Retrieved on 22 November 2011. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is the statutory regulator for practitioner psychologists in the UK. In the UK, the use of the title "chartered psychologist" is also protected by statutory regulation, but that title simply means that the psychologist is a chartered member of the British Psychological Society, but is not necessarily registered with the HCPC. However, it is illegal for someone who is not in the appropriate section of the HCPC register to provide psychological services.[http://www.hpc-uk.org/aboutregistration/protectedtitles/ HPC – Health Professions Council – Protected titles] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181107140106/http://www.hpc-uk.org/aboutregistration/protectedtitles/ |date=7 November 2018 }}. Hpc-uk.org. Retrieved on 22 November 2011. The requirement to register as a clinical, counselling, or educational psychologist is a professional doctorate (and in the case of the latter two the British Psychological Society's Professional Qualification, which meets the standards of a professional doctorate).[http://www.hpc-uk.org/mediaandevents/news/index.asp?id=253 HCPC – Health and Care Professions Council – News] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716233059/http://www.hpc-uk.org/mediaandevents/news/index.asp?id=253 |date=16 July 2011 }}. Hpc-uk.org (11 June 2009). Retrieved on 22 November 2011. The title of "psychologist", by itself, is not protected. The British Psychological Society is working with the HCPC to ensure that the title of "neuropsychologist" is regulated as a specialist title for practitioner psychologists.{{cite web|title=Qualification in Clinical Neuropsychology|url=https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologists/society-qualifications/qualification-clinical-neuropsychology|access-date=2 August 2020|archive-date=15 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715095506/https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologists/society-qualifications/qualification-clinical-neuropsychology|url-status=dead}}

{{As of|2012|12}}, in the United Kingdom, there are 19,000 practitioner psychologists registered{{cite web|url=http://www.hpc-uk.org/aboutregistration/professions/index.asp?id=14#profDetails|title=HCPC – Health and Care Professions Council – Professions|access-date=15 August 2016}} across seven categories: clinical psychologist, counselling psychologist, educational psychologist, forensic psychologist, health psychologist, occupational psychologist, sport and exercise psychologist. At least 9,500 of these are clinical psychologists,{{cite web|url=http://dcp.bps.org.uk/|title=BPS Server|access-date=15 August 2016|archive-date=21 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821212432/http://dcp.bps.org.uk/|url-status=dead}} which is the largest group of psychologists in clinical settings such as the NHS. Around 2,000 are educational psychologists.{{cite web|last1=Kelly|first1=Diana|last2=Gray|first2=Carol|title=Current Role, Good Practice and Future Directions|url=http://dera.ioe.ac.uk/12356/1/epwg%20research%20report.pdf |website=Digital Education Resource Archive (DERA)|publisher=Educational Psychology Services (England)|access-date=16 April 2017|date=July 2000}}

In the United States and Canada, full membership in each country's professional association—American Psychological Association (APA) and Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), respectively—requires doctoral training (except in some Canadian provinces, such as Alberta, where a master's degree is sufficient).{{efn|APA membership is not a requirement for licensure in any of the 50 US states. This fact should not be confused with APA accreditation of graduate psychology programs and clinical internships.}} The minimal requirement for full membership can be waived in circumstances where there is evidence that significant contribution or performance in the field of psychology has been made. Associate membership requires at least two years of postgraduate studies in psychology or an approved related discipline.[http://www.apa.org/about/division/officers/handbook/membership.aspx APA Membership information]. Apa.org. Retrieved on 22 November 2011.

File:Penn campus 2.jpg was the first institution to offer formal education in clinical psychology in the U.S.]]

Some U.S. schools offer accredited programs in clinical psychology resulting in a master's degree. Such programs can range from forty-eight to eighty-four units, most often taking two to three years to complete after the undergraduate degree. Training usually emphasizes theory and treatment over research, quite often with a focus on school or couples and family counseling. Similar to doctoral programs, master's level students usually must complete a clinical practicum under supervision; some programs also require a minimum amount of personal psychotherapy.Antioch University. (2006). [http://www.antiochla.edu/programs_map_options.shtml Master of Arts in Psychology Program Options & Requirements] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070410005200/http://www.antiochla.edu/programs_map_options.shtml|date=10 April 2007}}. While many graduates from master's level training go on to doctoral psychology programs, a large number also go directly into practice—often as a licensed professional counselor (LPC), marriage and family therapist (MFT), or other similar licensed practice, which varies by state.{{cite web|date= 2–6 December 2016|title=Proceedings of the Summit on Master's Training in Psychological Practice|url=https://www.apa.org/pi/mfp/masters-summit/training-proceedings.pdf|access-date=2 August 2020|website=American Psychological Organization}}

There is stiff competition to gain acceptance into clinical psychology doctoral programs (acceptance rates of 2–5% are not uncommon).{{cn|date=July 2022}} Clinical psychologists in the U.S. undergo many years of graduate training—usually five to seven years after the bachelor's degree—to gain demonstrable competence and experience. Licensure as a psychologist may take an additional one to two years post-PhD/PsyD. Some states require a 1-year postdoctoral residency, while others do not require postdoctoral supervised experience and allow psychology graduates to sit for the licensure exam immediately. Some psychology specialties, such as clinical neuropsychology, require a 2-year postdoctoral experience regardless of the state, as set forth in the Houston Conference Guidelines. Today in America, about half of all clinical psychology graduate students are being trained in PhD programs that emphasize melding research with practice and are conducted by universities—with the other half in PsyD programs, which less focus on research (similar to professional degrees for medicine and law).Norcross, J. & Castle, P. (2002).[https://archive.today/20060927062930/http://www.psichi.org/pubs/articles/article_171.asp Appreciating the PsyD: The Facts.] Eye on Psi Chi, 7(1), 22–26. Both types of doctoral programs (PhD and PsyD) envision practicing clinical psychology in a research-based, scientifically valid manner, and most are accredited by the APA.{{cite web|title=Database of APA-Accredited Psychology Programs|url=http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/programs/using-database.aspx|access-date=6 April 2018|website=APA.org|language=en}}

APA accreditation{{cite web|title=Understanding APA Accreditation|url=http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/about/index.aspx|access-date=6 April 2018|website=APA.org|language=en}} is very important for U.S. clinical, counseling, and school psychology programs because graduating from a non-accredited doctoral program may adversely affect employment prospects and present a hurdle for becoming licensed in some jurisdictions.{{cite web|title=About Accreditation > Why is accreditation important?|url=http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/about/about-accreditation.aspx|access-date=6 April 2018|website=APA.org|language=en}}{{cite web|title=Choosing a Program > Will I have trouble getting a job or becoming licensed if I don't go to an accredited program?|url=http://www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/about/program-choice.aspx|access-date=6 April 2018|website=APA.org|language=en}}{{Cite journal|date=2004|title=Why accreditation matters|url=http://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2004/04/accreditation.aspx|journal=GradPSYCH Magazine|language=en|access-date=6 April 2018|author-last=Bailey|author-first=Deborah Smith}}{{cite web|author-last=Marcus|author-first=David|date=7 June 2014|title=Choosing a Graduate Program in Clinical Psychology|url=https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-dark-side-personality/201406/choosing-graduate-program-in-clinical-psychology|access-date=6 April 2018|website=Psychology Today|language=en}}

Doctorate (PhD and PsyD) programs usually involve some variation on the following 5 to 7 year, 90–120 unit curriculum:

:*Bases of behavior—biological, cognitive-affective, and cultural-social

:*Individual differences—personality, lifespan development, psychopathology

:*History and systems—development of psychological theories, practices and scientific knowledge

:*Clinical practice—diagnostics, psychological assessment, psychotherapeutic interventions, psychopharmacology, ethical and legal issues

:*Coursework in statistics and research design

:* Clinical experience

:**Practicum—usually three or four years of working with clients under supervision in a clinical setting. Most practicum placements begin in either the first or second year of doctoral training.

:**Doctoral internship—usually an intensive one or two-year placement in a clinical setting

:* Dissertation—PhD programs usually require original quantitative empirical research, while PsyD dissertations involve original quantitative or qualitative research, theoretical scholarship, program evaluation or development, critical literature analysis or clinical application and analysis. The dissertation typically takes 2–3 years to complete.

:*Specialized electives—many programs offer sets of elective courses for specializations, such as health, child/adolescent, family, community, or neuropsychology.

:* Personal psychotherapy—many programs require students to undertake a certain number of hours of personal psychotherapy (with a non-faculty therapist) although in recent years this requirement has become less frequent.

:* Comprehensive exams or master's thesis: a thesis can involve original data collection and is distinct from a dissertation.

Psychologists can be seen as practicing within two general categories of psychology: health service psychology, which includes "practitioners" or "professionals" and research-oriented psychology which includes "scientists" or "scholars". The training models (Boulder and Vail models) endorsed by the APA require that health service psychologists be trained as both researchers and practitioners,{{efn|See: Scientist–practitioner model and Practitioner–scholar model}} and that they possess advanced degrees.

Psychologists typically have one of two degrees: PsyD or PhD. The PsyD program prepares the student primarily as a practitioner for clinical practice (e.g., testing, psychotherapy), but also as a scholar that consumes research. Depending on the specialty (industrial/organizational, social, clinical, school, etc.), a PhD may be trained in clinical practice as well as in scientific methodology, to prepare for a career in academia or research. Both the PsyD and PhD programs prepare students to take the national psychology licensing exam, the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

Within the two main categories are many further types of psychologists as reflected by APA's 54 Divisions, which are specialty or subspecialty or topical areas,{{cite web|url=http://www.apa.org/about/division/index.aspx|title=Divisions of APA|access-date=15 August 2016}} including clinical, counseling, and school psychologists. Such professionals work with persons in a variety of therapeutic contexts. People often think of the discipline as involving only such clinical or counseling psychologists. While counseling and psychotherapy are common activities for psychologists, these health service psychology fields are just two branches in the larger domain of psychology.[http://everydaypsychology.com/2006/10/what-is-psychology.html What is Psychology?] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091003210701/http://everydaypsychology.com/2006/10/what-is-psychology.html |date=3 October 2009 }} at everydaypsychology.com There are other classifications such as industrial and organizational and community psychologists, whose professionals mainly apply psychological research, theories, and techniques to "real-world" problems of business, industry, social benefit organizations, government,{{cite journal|author=Peterson, Donald R. |journal=American Psychologist|volume= 31|issue=8|year=1976|pages=572–581|doi=10.1037/0003-066X.31.8.572|title=Is psychology a profession?|pmid=1008340}}Spector, P.E (2011). Industrial and Organizational Psychology: Research and Practice, (6th Edition) NJ, US: Wiley.Dalton, J. H., Elias, M. J., & Wandersman, A. (2001). "Community Psychology: Linking Individuals and Communities". Stamford, CT: Wadsworth. and academia.

• Clinical psychology
• Clinical neuropsychology
• Clinical child and adolescent psychology
• School psychology
• Behavioral and cognitive psychology
• Couple and family psychology
• Clinical health psychology
• Geropsychology
• Police and public safety psychology
• Sleep psychology
• Rehabilitation psychology
• Group psychology and group psychotherapy
• Forensic psychology
• Industrial and organizational psychology
• Psychoanalysis
• Counseling psychology
• Serious mental illness psychology
• Clinical psychopharmacology

Clinical psychologists receive training in a number of psychological therapies, including behavioral, cognitive, humanistic, existential, psychodynamic, and systemic approaches, as well as in-depth training in psychological testing, and to some extent, neuropsychological testing.{{cite web|title=APA-Recognized Specialties|url=https://www.apa.org/ed/graduate/specialize/recognized}}American Board of Professional Psychology, [http://www.abpp.org/abpp_certification_specialties.htm Specialty Certification in Professional Psychology] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061214135515/http://www.abpp.org/abpp_certification_specialties.htm|date=14 December 2006}}

Clinical psychologists can offer a range of professional services, including:Compas, Bruce & Gotlib, Ian. (2002). Introduction to Clinical Psychology. New York, NY : McGraw-Hill Higher Education. {{ISBN|0-07-012491-4}}

• Psychological treatment (psychotherapy)
• Administering, scoring, and interpreting psychological tests
• Prescribing medications (in six states)
• Conducting psychological research
• Teaching
• Developing prevention programs
• Consulting
• Program administration
• Expert testimony
• Supervision of students or other mental health professionals

In practice, clinical psychologists might work with individuals, couples, families, or groups in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, community mental health centers, schools, businesses, and non-profit agencies.

Most clinical psychologists who engage in research and teaching do so within a college or university setting. Clinical psychologists may also choose to specialize in a particular field.

Psychologists in the United States campaigned for legislative changes to enable specially-trained psychologists to prescribe psychotropic medications. Legislation in Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, New Mexico, Illinois, and Colorado has granted those who complete an additional master's degree program in clinical psychopharmacology authority to prescribe medications for mental and emotional disorders.[http://www.louisianapsychologist.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=6 Louisiana Psychological Association] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180706104142/http://www.louisianapsychologist.org/displaycommon.cfm?an=1&subarticlenbr=6|date=6 July 2018}}. Louisianapsychologist.org. Retrieved on 22 November 2011. {{As of|2019}}, Louisiana is the only state where the licensing and regulation of the practice of medical psychology by medical psychologists (MPs) is regulated by a medical board (the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners) rather than a board of psychologists.{{cite web|date=March 2010|title=Louisiana RxP psychologist defends regulatory change – The National Psychologist|url=http://nationalpsychologist.com/2010/03/louisiana-rxp-psychologist-defends-regulatory-change/101127.html|access-date=15 August 2016|archive-date=16 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816075615/http://nationalpsychologist.com/2010/03/louisiana-rxp-psychologist-defends-regulatory-change/101127.html|url-status=dead}} While other states have pursued prescriptive authority, they have not succeeded. Similar legislation in the states of Hawaii and Oregon passed through their respective legislative bodies, but in each case the legislation was vetoed by the state's governor.

In 1989, the U.S Department of Defense was directed to create the Psychopharmacology Demonstration Project (PDP). By 1997, ten psychologists were trained in psychopharmacology and granted the ability to prescribe psychiatric medications.{{cite web|title=NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness – NAMI: The National Alliance on Mental Illness|url=http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=Issue_Spotlights&template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=8375|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150720130017/http://www2.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=Issue_Spotlights&template=%2FContentManagement%2FContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=8375|archive-date=20 July 2015|access-date=15 August 2016}}

The practice of clinical psychology requires a license in the United States and Canada. Although each of the U.S. states is different in terms of requirements and licenses (see{{cite web|title=BBS – MFT Intern and Licensing Information|url=http://bbs.ca.gov/lic-req2.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070406224513/http://bbs.ca.gov/lic-req2.htm|archive-date=6 April 2007|access-date=11 March 2019}} and{{cite web|title=FAQ|url=https://www.bbs.ca.gov/pdf/publications/mft_faq.pdf|access-date=26 August 2019|website=www.bbs.ca.gov}} for examples), there are three common requirements:{{cite web|title=Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards|url=http://www.asppb.org/|access-date=17 February 2007}}

1. Graduation from an accredited school with the appropriate degree
2. Completion of supervised clinical experience
3. Passing a written and/or oral examination

All U.S. state and Canada provincial licensing boards are members of the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) which created and maintains the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Many states require other examinations in addition to the EPPP, such as a jurisprudence (i.e., mental health law) examination or an oral examination. Nearly all states also require a certain number of continuing education credits per year in order to renew a license. Licensees can obtain this through various means, such as taking audited classes and attending approved workshops.

There are professions whose scope of practice overlaps with the practice of psychology (particularly with respect to providing psychotherapy) and for which a license is required.

{{clear}}

To practice with the title of "psychologist", in almost all cases a doctoral degree is required (PhD, PsyD, or EdD in the U.S.). Normally, after the degree, the practitioner must fulfill a certain number of supervised postdoctoral hours ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 (usually taking one to two years), and pass the EPPP and any other state or provincial exams.Kerewsky, Shoshana. (2000). Some US states also require additional requirements, such as an oral exam and extra coursework [http://www.apa.org/apags/profdev/beyintrn.html Beyond Internship: Helpful Resources for Obtaining Licensure]. By and large, a professional in the U.S. must hold a doctoral degree in psychology (PsyD, EdD, or PhD), and/or have a state license to use the title psychologist.[http://www.psych.on.ca/About-Psychology/Careers-in-psychology Becoming a psychologist or psychologist associate] Ontario Psychological Association."Currently, all (State) jurisdictions have laws that limit the use of the term psychologist to those who are licensed or who are specifically exempt, as in an exempt setting." (Reference: American Psychological Association (APA) [http://www.siop.org/tip/jan09/17silzer.aspx Division 14, Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP)]) However, regulations vary from state to state. For example, in the states of Michigan, West Virginia, and Vermont, there are psychologists licensed at the master's level.

{{further|Mental health professional#Psychiatrists and clinical psychology}}

Although clinical psychologists and psychiatrists share the same fundamental aim—the alleviation of mental distress—their training, outlook, and methodologies are often different. Perhaps the most significant difference is that psychiatrists are licensed physicians, and, as such, psychiatrists are apt to use the medical model to assess mental health problems and to also employ psychotropic medications as a method of addressing mental health problems.{{cite journal|author1=Graybar, S.|author2=Leonard, L.|year=2005|title=In Defense of Listening|journal=American Journal of Psychotherapy|volume=59|issue=1|pages=1–19|doi=10.1176/appi.psychotherapy.2005.59.1.1|pmid=15895765}}

Psychologists generally do not prescribe medication, although in some jurisdictions they do have prescription privileges. In five U.S. states (New Mexico, Louisiana, Illinois, Iowa, Idaho, and Colorado), psychologists with clinical psychopharmacology training have been granted prescriptive authority for mental health disorders.{{cite web|title=APA Applauds Landmark Illinois Law Allowing Psychologists to Prescribe Medications|url=http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2014/06/prescribe-medications.aspx|access-date=15 August 2016}}{{cite web|date=5 May 2004|title=Louisiana grants psychologists prescriptive authority|url=http://www.apa.org/monitor/louisianarx.html|access-date=16 July 2009}}

Psychologists receive extensive training in psychological test administration, scoring, interpretation, and reporting, while psychiatrists are not trained in psychological testing. In addition, psychologists (particularly those from PhD programs) spend several years in graduate school being trained to conduct behavioral research; their training includes research design and advanced statistical analysis. While this training is available for physicians via dual MD/PhD programs, it is not typically included in standard medical education, although psychiatrists may develop research skills during their residency or a psychiatry fellowship (post-residency).

Psychiatrists, as licensed physicians, have been trained more intensively in other areas, such as internal medicine and neurology, and may bring this knowledge to bear in identifying and treating medical or neurological conditions that present with primarily psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or paranoia (e.g., hypothyroidism presenting with depressive symptoms, or pulmonary embolism with significant apprehension and anxiety).{{cite web|last=Dorsey|first=Steven T.|date=22 September 2002|title=Medical Conditions that Mimic Psychiatric Disease: A Systematic Approach for Evaluation of Patients Who Present with Psychiatric Symptomatology|url=https://www.ahcmedia.com/articles/109640-medical-conditions-that-mimic-psychiatric-disease-a-systematic-approach-for-evaluation-of-patients-who-present-with-psychiatric-symptomatology|access-date=23 May 2018|website=www.ahcmedia.com|series=Emergency Medicine Reports|publisher=AHC Media / Relias / Bertelsmann Education Group|language=en|issn=0746-2506|lccn=83008791|oclc=09881608}}

{{mental health professionals}}

• Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). An MFT license requires a doctorate or master's degree. In addition, it usually involves two years of post-degree clinical experience under supervision, and licensure requires passing a written exam, commonly the National Examination for Marriage and Family Therapists, which is maintained by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. In addition, most states require an oral exam. MFTs, as the title implies, work mostly with families and couples, addressing a wide range of common psychological problems.American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, [http://www.aamft.org/faqs/index_nm.asp Frequently Asked Questions on Marriage and Family Therapists] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070404120746/http://www.aamft.org/faqs/index_nm.asp|date=4 April 2007}} Some jurisdictions have exemptions that let someone practice marriage and family therapy without meeting the requirements for a license. That is, they offer a license but do not require that marriage and family therapists obtain one.{{cite web|last1=Plamondon|first1=Robert|date=6 December 2014|title=Practicing Your Profession In Oregon Without a License, Legally and Ethically|url=http://unlicensed-practitioner.com/69/|website=Alternative & Unlicensed Practitioners}}{{self-published source|date=February 2015}}{{self-published inline|date=February 2015}}
• Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Similar to the MFT, the LPC license requires a master's or doctorate degree, a minimum number of hours of supervised clinical experience in a pre-doc practicum, and the passing of the National Counselor Exam. Similar licenses are the Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and Clinical Counselor in Mental Health (CCMH). In some states, after passing the exam, a temporary LPC license is awarded and the clinician may begin the normal 3000-hour supervised internship leading to the full license allowing to practice as a counselor or psychotherapist, usually under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.{{cite web|title=National Board for Certified Counselors|url=http://www.nbcc.org/|access-date=17 February 2007}} Some jurisdictions have exemptions that allow counseling to practice without meeting the requirements for a license. That is, they offer a license but do not require that counselors obtain one.
• Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) Twenty-six states offer a master's-only license, a common one being the LPA, which allows for the therapist to either practice independently, or, more commonly, under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, depending on the state.{{cite web|date=2004|title=Licensure Information|url=http://www.enamp.org/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=4|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090310204328/http://www.enamp.org/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=4|archive-date=10 March 2009|access-date=3 March 2018|website=North American Association of Masters in Psychology}} Common requirements are two to four years of post-master's supervised clinical experience and passing a Psychological Associates Examination. Other titles for this level of licensing include psychological technician (Alabama), psychological assistant (California), licensed clinical psychotherapist (Kansas), licensed psychological practitioner (Minnesota), licensed behavioral practitioner (Oklahoma), licensed psychological associate (North Carolina) or psychological examiner (Tennessee).
• Licensed behavior analysts

{{main|Professional practice of behavior analysis}}

Licensed behavior analysts are licensed in five states to provide services for clients with substance abuse, developmental disabilities, and mental illness. This profession draws on the evidence base of applied behavior analysis and the philosophy of behaviorism. Behavior analysts have at least a master's degree in behavior analysis or in a mental health related discipline, as well as having taken at least five core courses in applied behavior analysis. Many behavior analysts have a doctorate. Most programs have a formalized internship program, and several programs are offered online. Most practitioners have passed the examination offered by the [http://www.bacb.com Behavior Analyst Certification Board] The model licensing act for behavior analysts can be found at the Association for Behavior Analysis International's website.

In the United States, of 181,600 jobs for psychologists in 2021, 123,300 are employed in clinical, counseling, and school positions; 2,900 are employed in industrial-organizational positions, and 55,400 are in "all other" positions.

The median salary in the U.S. for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in May 2021 was US$82,510{{cite web|date=28 December 2021|title=Psychologists Salary BLS|url=https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes193031.htm}} and the median salary for industrial-organizational psychologists was US$105,310.U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: [http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm Psychologists][https://www.bls.gov/oes/2019/may/oes193032.htm Organizational Psychologists]. Bls.gov. Retrieved on 28 December 2021.

Psychologists can work in applied or academic settings. Academic psychologists educate higher education students, as well as conduct research, with graduate-level research being an important part of academic psychology. Academic positions can be tenured or non-tenured, with tenured positions being highly desirable.{{cite web|title=What Type of Careers are in Academic Psychology?|url=https://www.onlinepsychologydegree.info/faq/what-type-of-careers-are-in-academic-psychology/|access-date=23 September 2019|website=Online Psychology Degree Guide|language=en}}

• List of psychologists
• Mental health professional
• List of psychological topics
• List of psychologists on postage stamps

{{Notelist}}

{{reflist}}

{{Psychology}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:Psychology

Category:Mental health occupations

Category:Social science occupations