Psychology in Indiana: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in IN
What does it take to become a psychologist in Indiana? Check out this overview of Indiana psychology licensure requirements, license renewal information, and salary prospects.
According to a 2024 study from Indiana University, about 1 million residents in the Hoosier State are living with a mental health condition. In response, many state leaders are taking action to address the statewide mental healthcare shortfall. Could you be a part of the solution?
This guide explores the steps to getting your psychologist license and beginning to practice psychology in Indiana. It also provides insights into salary expectations and career prospects across the state.
Indiana Psychology Licensure Requirements
The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency establishes eligibility for psychologists seeking a state license. Applicants must fulfill specific steps, including education, supervised experience, and examination requirements.
At a minimum, in keeping with policy created by the American Psychological Association (APA), Indiana requires psychologists to hold a doctoral degree in psychology and a state-issued license to practice.
Psychologist
Indiana licensure requirements for psychologists include:
- Psychology doctoral degree from an accredited university
- Completion of at least 1,500 hours of supervised internship during the doctoral program
- Submission of application, transcripts, and a $100 fee through the online portal, MyLicense.IN.gov
- Passing score on the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Indiana jurisprudence exam.
- Completion of 1,600 hours of supervised professional experience to obtain endorsement as a Health Service Provider in Psychology (HSPP)
Licensed psychologists in Indiana must have the HSPP endorsement to diagnose and treat clients independently. The endorsement requires 1,600 hours of supervised experience in addition to the 1,500 hours of internship in the doctoral program. The supervised experience requirement includes a minimum of 900 hours of direct patient care completed over 12 months.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Indiana?
Getting your psychologist license takes about 8-12 years. However, the exact timeline depends on several factors. After completing a four-year bachelor’s and a two-year master’s, you may need at least four more years to earn either a Ph.D. or Psy.D.
A research-focused Ph.D. in psychology, which typically requires a dissertation, takes longer to finish than a Psy.D., which has a large clinical component.
In addition to earning a doctorate, you must complete supervised experience requirements and pass licensure examinations.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Indiana
If you hold a valid license from another state, you can practice in Indiana by applying for license reciprocity through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
To qualify for reciprocity, you must demonstrate that your current education and training are substantially equivalent to Indiana’s requirements by providing proof of your valid license, doctorate in psychology, and passing scores on the EPPP.
The fee for obtaining a license through reciprocity is $100. After your application is reviewed, you must pass a criminal background check and take the Indiana jurisprudence exam.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Indiana
To keep your Indiana license active, you must submit a renewal application before September 1 of every even-numbered year. The renewal fee is $100.
If you are endorsed as an HSPP, you must complete 40 continuing education hours within the two-year renewal period, including three hours in ethics each year. A minimum of 20 hours is required in areas like formal courses, workshops, postdoctoral experiences, and seminars.
You may not count more than 20 hours from secondary activities, such as informal seminars, programs offered at academic or professional meetings, and individualized instruction.
Indiana Psychologist Salary Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), psychologists in the U.S. earned an average salary of $102,100 in May 2024. Hospitals and government agencies tend to pay the highest salaries. Additionally, psychologists with in-demand specializations in areas of industrial-organizational psychology and neuropsychology generally make higher than average earnings.
How much you can make as a psychologist in Indiana depends on your specialization, type of employer, and years of experience. Average psychology salaries in May 2024 ranged from $76,880 to $111,440.
Overall, the job outlook for psychologists in Indiana is promising. The employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is projected to increase by 12% between 2020 and 2030.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $91,840 | $44.15 |
| School Psychologists | $76,880 | $36.96 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $111,440 | $53.58 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Indiana
- Indiana Psychological Association: IPA is the largest organization in the state with a mission to represent the field of psychology as a science and profession. Membership benefits include discounts on continuing education programs, ethics consultation services, and free listings in the “Find a Psychologist” directory.
- Indiana Association of School Psychologists: Affiliated with the National Association of School Psychologists, IASP advances the training, professional development, and practice of school psychologists in Indiana. It engages in advocacy at the state and regional levels, encourages graduate student participation, and provides early career support.
- Indiana Counseling Association: As a state branch of the American Counseling Association, ICA promotes the development of professional counselors, including licensed psychologists, by advocating for ethical standards and culturally sensitive practices and treatment. ICA offers members access to continuing education, licensure information, legislative updates, and job postings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Licensure in Indiana
The requirements for Indiana psychology licensure include a doctoral degree in psychology, supervised professional experience, and passing scores on the EPPP and Indiana jurisprudence exams. Prospective candidates should check with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency for current eligibility and application information.
