Psychology in Alabama
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.
