Psychology in Alabama: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in AL
Thinking about a career helping others cope with mental health challenges? Explore Alabama’s licensure requirements and career opportunities for psychologists.
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Alabama has a strong demand for psychologists and other mental health professionals. According to Mental Health America, Alabama ranks 36th of 50 states and the District of Columbia for mental health wellness and access to care. Alabama’s Department of Public Health designates mental health as an area with a shortage of health professionals.
Psychologists can expect strong job growth and competitive pay in Alabama. This guide outlines Alabama psychology licensure requirements, salary, and career opportunities.
Alabama Psychology Licensure Requirements
The Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology regulates the licensing of psychologists. The board recognizes specializations in clinical, counseling, school, and industrial/organizational psychology. While psychologists need a doctorate from a program accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) to practice in Alabama, school psychologists can qualify at the master’s level. We explore the qualifications for both licensure levels below.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Alabama?
It takes about 10-11 years to become a licensed clinical or counseling psychologist in Alabama. Students complete a bachelor’s and master’s degree in about six years, followed by a Ph.D. or Psy.D in 4-5 years. Note that many doctoral programs enroll students with a bachelor’s degree, which may impact the completion timeline.
Alabama has a shorter pathway for those who want to qualify as a master’s-level school psychologist. This requires a bachelor’s and master’s degree, which students can complete in 6-7 years on average.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Alabama
Alabama does not have reciprocity agreements for licensed psychologists from other states to practice face-to-face in Alabama on a permanent basis. Out-of-state applicants currently licensed to practice independently need to fulfill the same licensure requirements as Alabama residents. However, Alabama participates in Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), an interstate compact that facilitates telepsychology and temporary face-to-face practice of psychology across participating states.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Alabama
Alabama psychologists must renew their license each year. Renewal requires at least 20 hours of continuing education per year. The board sends renewal notices to licensees every August with an October 15 renewal deadline. The renewal fee is $280.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in Alabama
Psychologists in Alabama earn salaries well above the national average in some specialties compared to others. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Alabama earn an average annual salary of $110,180, greater than the national average of $106,600.
All other psychologists earn $126,770 on average in Alabama, compared to $113,340 at the national level. In addition to high pay, Alabama’s psychologists have strong job growth. Projections Central forecasts an 11.4% job growth rate for clinical and counseling psychologists between now and 2032.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $110,180 | $52.97 |
| School Psychologists | $72,130 | $34.68 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $126,770 | $60.95 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Alabama
Professional organizations provide guidance, credentialing, and professional development. The two organizations support psychologists in Alabama.
- Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology: ABEIP issues licenses to psychologists and regulates the practice of psychology in Alabama. The board ensures that the public has access to safe, competent, and ethical psychological services in the state.
- Alabama Psychological Association: A state affiliate of the American Psychological Association, APA advances the practice of psychology through advocacy, professional development, and the promotion of ethical practice and standards in Alabama.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama Psychology Licensure
You must earn a doctorate from an APA-accredited program, fulfill internship hours, and pass the EPPP and PSE. This qualifies you to apply for licensure by submitting an application and all required information to the Alabama Board of Examiners in Psychology.
