Psychologist Licensure Procedures in Washington

How to become a Psychologist in Washington...

Click on the link that best describes your current situation.

Explore the information below and begin your journey toward becoming a licensed psychologist in Washington. The following procedures have been the same for many years; however, they are subject to change and it would be wise to contact the Washington Board of Psychology at (360) 236-4700 if you have any concerns or questions regarding requirements for earning your Washington psychologist license.

I'm a High School Graduate...

Unfortunately, Washington psychologist licensure requires all candidates to possess a doctorate. However, as a high school graduate researching licensure requirements, you are showing motivation that's way ahead of the curve. Regardless of where you live, Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, etc., you will find all the resources and opportunity necessary to help you continue on the path toward a professional career in psychology.

Step One:

The first thing you should be doing is by far the most important, regardless of whether or not you end up becoming a Washington state psychologist. Education. Learn how you can begin advancing your education and earn a college degree.

Click on the links below to browse schools offering programs you are currently qualified to begin!

Step Two:

Secondly, since graduate programs are becoming increasingly competitive, you should be learning how you can add value to your resume. One great way to do this is through volunteering in an environment that is similar to a counseling or psychology professional's work environment.

Below are a few organizations hosting volunteer opportunities throughout the state of Washington.

Finally, regardless of whether a career as a licensed psychologist is in your future or not, a higher education is always a great investment of your time and energy. So, go ahead and get started!

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I've already received my Bachelor's or Master's degree...

Congratulations! You're half-way there! Washington psychologist licensure requirements state you must be in possession of a doctoral level of education. So, your next step should be researching and contacting schools offering graduate programs in psychology.

Step One:

Contact schools offering Master's, PhD or PsyD programs you are interested in.

Step Two:

When choosing a Master's or Doctoral program, you will be narrowing your career focus. Since there are a large variety of areas where you can go within the field of psychology, it would be wise to speak with the career services personnel at your school to learn more about various opportunities you may participate in to boost yourself higher on the list of possible applicants for school and/or for a professional position once you have completed your schooling.

Step Three:

Once you have completed your PhD or PsyD program, you may continue down to:

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I have finished my PhD or PsyD...

Follow the steps to learn how to acquire your Psychologist license in Washington.

Step One:

You will need to earn 3300 hours of supervised professional work experience which can be fulfilled while earning your doctoral degree. More information and supervisor qualifications can be downloaded by clicking on the "246-924-059" link on the following Washington State Legislature webpage.

Step Two:

Next, you can submit your Washington psychologist licensure application to the Washington Board of Psychology. You will need to include all supporting documents, transcripts and application processing fees.

You can download the application here.

Step Three:

The Board will review your application and notify you of your approval to take the Examination of Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). Once that exam has been passed you will also need to take the Washington state administered jurisprudence examination. Information about the EPPP can be found on the ASPPB website and information about the jurisprudence exam can be found on the Washington Board of Psychology website.

Good Luck!

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