Psychology in Hawaii: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in HI
Interested in becoming a psychologist in Hawaii? Discover Hawaii’s psychology licensure requirements.
Hawaii is known for its natural beauty, but it also offers job opportunities and higher-than-average salaries for clinical and counseling psychologists. Learn about the requirements and processes for psychology licensure in Hawaii and typical salaries.
Hawaii Psychology Licensure Requirements
Hawaii’s Board of Psychology administers and oversees psychology licensure in the state. Hawaii offers several pathways to becoming a licensed psychologist: examination, examination waiver, temporary military spouse permit, certification, national register certificate, diplomate certificate, and licensed senior psychologist.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Hawaii?
Hawaii psychologists can expect to spend at least nine years becoming licensed. First, they must earn a four-year bachelor’s degree, a 2-3 year master’s degree, and a 4-8 year doctorate in psychology. Then, they must complete a year of postdoctoral clinical training.
How long it takes to become a psychologist can depend on whether they can enter a doctoral program with a bachelor’s degree or need a master’s. It can also depend on which type of doctorate they earn: a clinical-focused doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) or a research and teaching-focused Ph.D. in psychology. Psy.D.s typically take 4-6 years to complete, and Ph.D.s take 5-8 years.
Full-time or part-time study can also shorten or lengthen the years spent in school.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Hawaii
Hawaii does not offer reciprocity to licensees of other states. However, its licensure board does offer examination waivers and temporary permits to qualified applicants.
The board also offers alternative application procedures to those who hold a Certificate of Professional Qualification in Psychology, a National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology Credential, an ABPP Diplomate Certificate, or a 20-year license from another state.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Hawaii
Hawaii’s licensed psychologists renew their licenses by June 30 during every even-numbered year. Except for the first renewal, psychologists must complete 18 hours of continuing education during each two-year period.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in Hawaii
Clinical and counseling psychologists in Hawaii earn an average annual salary of $110,900, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This salary exceeds the national average of $106,850 for all clinical and counseling psychologists.
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Hawaii
- Hawaii Psychological Association: The HPA advocates for a psychologically healthy community, improves mental health care, and serves multiple cultures. An affiliate of the APA, the HPA offers its members free and low-cost continuing education and professional development events, a 24-hour referral service, student mentorship, and an annual convention with content in advocacy, education, and research relevant to Hawaii’s psychologists.
- Hawaii Association of School Psychologists: HASP supports learning, social emotional development, and well-being for Hawaii’s children and families. Member benefits include free National Association of School Psychologists-approved professional development at conferences, leadership opportunities, legislative advocacy, and members-only social events.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaii Psychology Licensure
Hawaii psychologists need a doctorate from a board-approved program or school, one year of predoctoral supervised training, and one year of postdoctoral supervised training. They may also need to take the EPPP exam or provide verification of an out-of-state license, credential, or certificate.
