Psychology in Connecticut: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in CT
Learn about Connecticut’s psychology licensure process, earning potential, and more.
A growing percentage of Connecticut’s population lacks access to mental health services or providers, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. This unmet need drives demand for behavioral and mental health professionals, including licensed psychologists. Explore this guide to Connecticut psychology licensure to learn about education and training requirements, salary expectations, and professional resources.
Connecticut Psychology Licensure Requirements
You need a state-issued license to practice as a psychologist in Connecticut. The Department of Public Health (DPH) regulates psychology licensure, establishing eligibility standards, administering the application process, and monitoring professional conduct. To qualify for a state psychology license, you must earn a doctoral degree, complete supervised experience requirements, and pass national and state examinations.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Connecticut?
It may take you nine or more years to become a licensed psychologist. But the exact time frame depends on your individual circumstances, including the type of degree programs you choose and how long it takes to complete supervised experience and examination requirements.
After completing a bachelor’s degree, which typically requires four years, a research-focused Ph.D., including a dissertation, will take 5-7 years to finish. A practice-focused Psy.D. may take less time, between four and six years. You also must fulfill supervised work experience hours over a one-year period, or up to two years if completed part-time.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Connecticut
The state’s licensure by endorsement process allows out-of-state licensed psychologists with at least four years of experience to obtain a Connecticut licensure without repeating previous requirements. Applicants must provide documentation of a doctorate in psychology, supervised work experience, and passing scores on the EPPP and the state law exam.
Connecticut also offers a streamlined process for licensed psychologists with a Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards. (ASPPB). The CPQ verifies that the license applicant has met Connecticut’s education, experience, and exam requirements, except for the state law exam.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Connecticut
Connecticut requires that you renew your psychology license annually. After the first-year renewal, you must complete at least ten hours of continuing education (CE) credits during each renewal period. You may earn CE credits in approved activities such as courses, seminars, conferences, and workshops.
At least once every six years, you must complete two CE units in mental health issues affecting veterans and their families. No more than five of the total 10 credits should be from online or home-study activities. Up to five credits of research-based presentations may be included during each renewal period.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in Connecticut
The Connecticut Department of Labor anticipates expanding job opportunities for licensed psychologists through 2032. The employment of clinical and counseling psychologists is projected to grow by 9.2%, and school psychologists by 5.7%. As a result, the state’s licensed psychologists can expect to earn competitive salaries, although earnings depend on factors like specialization or experience.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) categorizes psychologists in less common fields, such as organizational or forensic psychology, under “psychologists, all others.” These professionals may command even higher salaries based on demand and specialized expertise.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| School Psychologists | $47.21 | $98,190 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $56.49 | $117,500 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Connecticut
- Connecticut Psychological Association: CPA promotes psychology as a science and profession, offering members research and practice-related resources, legal consultation, and extensive opportunities for professional development and continuing education credits. The association engages in advocacy at the state and federal levels and represents the interests of Connecticut’s psychologists at the American Psychological Association.
- Connecticut Society for Psychoanalytic Psychology: Established in 1986, CSPP is an interdisciplinary organization of mental health professionals interested in clinical and theoretical psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. The association provides educational resources, mentoring of early career professionals, and a cultural consultation service to improve the delivery of mental health services to culturally diverse populations.
- Connecticut Association of School Psychologists: As the state affiliate of the National Association of School Psychologists, CASP promotes the profession of school psychology and engages in legislative advocacy in support of school psychologists and students. The association sponsors networking opportunities, conferences and in-service events, and an awards program.
