Psychology in Texas: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in TX
Are you considering a career as a licensed psychologist in Texas? Learn about psychology licensure requirements, salary prospects, and more.
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Texas’s population is projected to grow by 11.4% to over 32 million by 2023. This unprecedented growth is driving the need for mental health professionals, including licensed psychologists. Psychology licensure in Texas encompasses strict rules and several steps. Explore our guide to learn about the licensure process and salary potential.
Texas Psychology Licensure Requirements
The Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council, through the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists, establishes the qualifications for psychology licensure in Texas. TSBEP issues three types of licenses: licensed psychologist, licensed psychological associate, and licensed specialist in school psychology. While each license uses a separate application process, the general path to Texas psychology licensure requires a doctoral degree, supervised work experience, and passing scores on required examinations.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Texas?
It may take you 6-10 years to become a psychologist in Texas, depending on the level of licensure you are seeking, specific degree requirements, and how long it takes you to complete supervised experience hours and exams. To become a licensed psychological associate or a licensed specialist in school psychology, you need a master’s or specialist training that takes approximately two years to complete. The Licensed Psychologist credential requires at least four more years to earn the required doctorate degree.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Texas
Currently, Texas only has a reciprocity agreement with Oklahoma. If you hold a valid psychology license issued from another state, you must meet all Texas licensure requirements to practice in Texas. You may obtain a temporary license to provide services for up to 30 days but must apply for a full license to practice for more than that. Texas does participate in the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), an interstate agreement that allows licensed psychologists to practice telepsychology and provide temporary in-person services across state lines.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Texas
Once you obtain your license, you must renew it every two years. You need to complete a minimum of 20 continuing education hours annually to maintain your license. At least three of these hours must be in the areas of ethics, Board rules, or professional responsibility, three hours in cultural diversity, and the remainder in clinical practice updates. CE hours may not be rolled over into the following year. Because the board conducts regular CE audits to verify compliance, you need to maintain accurate records that document all your CE activities for five years.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in Texas
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of psychologists nationwide is projected to grow 7% between 2023 and 2033. In contrast, the demand for psychologists in Texas is forecasted to increase by 65% by 2036, resulting in a shortfall of skilled professionals to meet the state’s anticipated mental health needs.
What you can earn as a psychologist depends on several factors, including specialization, type of employer, years of experience, and location. The average annual salary for all specializations in Texas ranges from $80,000 to $120,000. Although compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists and school psychologists in the state ranks below the national average, major metropolitan areas tend to offer higher salaries. For example, clinical psychologists earn over $93,000 annually in Houston and over $89,000 in Dallas.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $82,420 | $39.62 |
| School Psychologists | $80,610 | $38.76 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $120, 040 | $57.71 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Texas
- Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (TSBEP): Created in 1969, TSBEP operates under the authority of the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. TSEP establishes professional regulations and ethical standards and administers licensure and renewal for psychologists, psychological associates, and licensed specialists in school psychology in Texas.
- Texas Psychological Association (TPA): As a state affiliate of the American Psychological Association, TPA advocates for legislation that supports psychology and mental health professions. TPA sponsors conferences, educational services, newsletters, and a career center. Full members must hold a doctorate, and associate membership requires a master’s. Psychology students may join as non-voting members.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Psychology Licensure
To become a psychologist in Texas, you need to earn a license administered by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Qualifications for psychology licensure differ for each license type, but all applicants must complete degree requirements, supervised work experience hours, and pass the required exams.
