How to Become a Psychologist in the United States: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re considering a career as a psychologist, congratulations! It's a rewarding profession that allows you to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Becoming a psychologist in the United States involves several educational and professional steps. This guide will break it down for you in simple terms, from undergraduate studies to earning your license.
Step 1: Complete Your Undergraduate Degree
To start, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. Most aspiring psychologists major in psychology, but other fields like sociology, biology, or education can also work.
Key Tips:
Take psychology courses like Introduction to Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Research Methods to build a strong foundation.
Get involved in research or internships. Volunteering in a professor’s lab or working in a mental health clinic can make your graduate school applications stand out and help with securing solid letters of recommendation and networking relationships when applying to a graduate program.
Step 2: Apply to an APA-Accredited Graduate Program
To become a licensed psychologist, you’ll need a doctoral degree—either a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) or PsyD (Doctor of Psychology).
Why Choose an APA-Accredited Program?
The American Psychological Association (APA) accredits graduate programs that meet rigorous academic and professional training standards. While some states may accept non-APA-accredited programs, many employers and internships strongly prefer (or require) APA accreditation.
PhD: Focuses on research and academia but also includes clinical training.
PsyD: Primarily focused on clinical work, with less emphasis on research.
Preparing for Grad School:
Take the GRE: Many programs (but not all) require this standardized test.
Research graduate programs: Check for APA accreditation on the program’s website or the APA accreditation database.
Write a compelling personal statement: Highlight your experiences, interests, and why you’re a good fit for the program.
Get strong letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors.
Apply early: Deadlines are usually in the fall or winter for the following academic year.
Step 3: Complete Graduate School Coursework and Practicum
Once accepted, your graduate program will include:
Coursework: Advanced psychology topics like psychopathology, therapy techniques, and ethics.
Practicum: Hands-on training in settings like hospitals, clinics, or schools under supervision. It is helpful to take elective courses in specialized areas of practice based on your interests (e.g. neuropsychology, forensic, child, health...etc). to help with internship match.
Get involved in research or other opportunities: Volunteering in a professor’s lab, writing articles, or presenting at conferences are great ways to make your internship applications (Step 4) stand out and help with securing solid letters of recommendation.
Graduate school typically lasts 4-7 years, depending on whether you’re pursuing a PhD or PsyD.
Step 4: Apply for and Complete an APPIC Internship
Before graduating, you’ll need to complete a full-time, one-year internship. This is a critical step in your training.
APA-Accredited Internships vs. Non-APA Internships
APA-Accredited Internships:
Meet high standards of training and supervision.
Required by many states for licensure.
Offer broader job opportunities post-graduation.
Non-APA-Accredited Internships:
May not meet state licensure requirements.
Can still provide valuable experience, but options for licensure and employment might be limited.
What is the APPIC Internship Match?
The Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC) runs a system where students apply to accredited internship sites. You rank your preferences, and sites rank their preferred candidates. A computerized “match” determines your placement.
Tips for a Successful Match:
Apply to a mix of APA and non-APA internships if needed, but prioritize APA-accredited sites as many postdoctoral residency positions (Step 5) require APA accredited internships.
Tailor your applications to highlight your skills and experience.
Practice for interviews with potential internship supervisors.
Step 5: Complete Postdoctoral Residency (If Required)
After earning your doctoral degree and completing your internship, many states require a postdoctoral residency. This is typically a 1-2 year supervised position where you gain additional clinical experience.
Step 6: Pass the Licensing Exam
To practice independently as a psychologist, you must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
What’s on the EPPP? The exam covers eight domains, including biological bases of behavior, assessment, and ethics.
How to Prepare:
Take a review course or use study guides (e.g. AATBS, PrepJet, Academic Review)
Dedicate several months to studying.
Step 7: Apply for Licensure in Your State
Licensure requirements vary by state, so check with your state’s psychology licensing board. Some requirements in addition to completion of a doctorate degree and passing the EPPP include taking specific trainings, passing state specific laws & rules examination, and filing fees. Once you’re licensed, you can practice as a psychologist!
Bonus Tips: Build Your Career
Specialize: After licensure, you can pursue certifications in areas like neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or child psychology. In addition, there's the option to become board certified.
Stay Current: Continuing education is required to maintain your license and keep your clinical skills sharp as well as stay up to date on the latest research.
Explore Opportunities: Psychologists can work in private practice, schools, hospitals, research, and even corporate settings.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a psychologist is a challenging but incredibly fulfilling journey. From undergraduate studies to licensure, each step builds your skills and knowledge to help others. Prioritizing APA-accredited programs and internships can open more doors for licensure and career opportunities. If you're passionate about understanding the human mind and making a difference, this career path is worth the effort!
Good luck on your journey to becoming a psychologist!
At Balanced Minds Psychology & Wellness we specialize in assisting individuals navigating life’s challenges. We also offer supervision and residency opportunities for students. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
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