Psychology in Missouri: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in MO
The average Missouri psychologist salary of $97,620 compares to the national mean salary of $98,010, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Missouri residents enjoy a low cost of living, reasonably-priced housing, and options for city or country living. These benefits present an attractive environment for licensed psychologists in Missouri.
A shortage of licensed psychologists in Missouri provides ample employment opportunities, particularly in the state’s rural areas.
| Job Title | Lowest 10% | Median Annual Salary | Highest 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical and counseling psychologists | $39,280 | $63,580 | $100,620 |
| School psychologists | $47,580 | $76,160 | $127,690 |
| Psychologists, all other | $46,760 | $105,960 | $121,530 |
Source:BLS
Psychologist Licensing in Missouri
Psychologist licensing in Missouri is administered by the Missouri State Committee of Psychologists (SCOP). Obtaining a psychologist license in Missouri requires candidates to complete 3,500 supervision hours and pass three exams.
License reciprocity refers to a state’s recognition of another state’s licensure privileges. Currently, SCOP allows out-of-state psychologists to apply for Missouri licensure by reciprocity. Candidates must have held an out-of-state license for the past five years, remain in good professional standing, and submit application and fees.
License Requirements
Applicants for psychologist licensing in Missouri must:
Graduate from an American Psychological Association-accredited doctoral psychology program.- Complete 3,500 hours of supervised experience, 1,500 of which are to be completed during the doctoral internship.
- Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, a written jurisprudence state exam, and an oral exam.
- Submit an application to SCOP along with a $150 fee.
Demand for Psychology in Missouri
Missouri meets only 5.9% of its population’s mental health needs, designating the state a health professional shortage area per the Kaiser Family Foundation. This low percentage demonstrates the critical need for licensed psychologists in Missouri.
According to a 2021 survey by Mental Health America, Missouri ranked 41st out of the 50 U.S. states for access to psychological services. This ranking accounted for both children and adults who did not receive needed mental health treatment.
Missouri’s 86% rural areas are particularly underserved. Over half of this population have no access to mental health professionals. The University of Missouri Extension heads an initiative to help rural residents access mental health services in their areas, providing abundant opportunities for licensed psychologists in Missouri.
Feature Image: John Elk III / The Image Bank / Getty Images
