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Alabama's demand for psychology professionals stands out as one of the most pressing mental health needs in the country.
The average Alabama psychologist salary ranks low amongst other states at $84,360, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS). However, the demand for psychological services within the school and community specialities provide myriad employment opportunities.
| Job Title | Lowest 10% | Median Annual Salary | Highest 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical and counseling psychologists | $34,060 | $62,520 | $167,250 |
| School psychologists | $58,360 | $60,840 | $74,780 |
| Industrial-organizational psychologists | $63,750 | $105,310 | $168,300 |
| Psychologists, all other | $39,560 | $104,420 | $123,800 |
Source: BLS
Psychologist Licensing in Alabama
Psychologist licensing in Alabama is administered by the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology. Alabama does not require post-doctoral hours for licensure. However, applicants must take an in-person ethics test and complete a paper application, as opposed to an online application.
License reciprocity refers to agreements which certain states hold that honor out-of-state licensure privileges. Alabama does not currently have any reciprocity agreements. Out-of-state psychologists must adhere to each standard required of Alabama residents.
License Requirements
Applicants for psychologist licensing in Alabama must:
- Be a minimum of 19 years old
- Earn a doctoral degree from accredited psychology program
- Pass state board exams
- Adhere to the American Psychological Association's (APA) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct
- Have not failed a state board exam within the past six months
The current application fee, due upon application submission, is $400.
Demand for Psychology in Alabama
Alabama is designated a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) by Alabama Public Health. Data shows that Alabama meets less than 25% of residents' mental health needs, including children, rural residents, and underserved populations. The challenges in receiving psychological services for these residents has created a crisis in Alabama.
Of Alabama counties, 88% of residents face socio economic hardships. Lack of transportation to urban areas, a large population of residents with a mental health diagnosis, and a below-average usage rate of psychological services creates a considerable need for licensed psychologists in Alabama.
To help serve these populations, psychologists can find work in Alabama's schools and communities to help combat demand.