Psychology in Oklahoma: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in OK
Discover how to earn your psychologist license in Oklahoma and average psychologist salaries in the state.
Are you considering practicing as a psychologist in Oklahoma? Many Oklahomans are not receiving the help they need for mental health and substance abuse issues, according to the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. This guide covers Oklahoma psychology licensure requirements, career and salary ranges, and professional resources.
Oklahoma Psychology Licensure Requirements
The Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists (OSBEP) regulates the licensing of psychologists. To obtain a psychologist license in Oklahoma, candidates must first complete a doctorate in psychology, 4,000 supervisory hours, and pass national and state jurisprudence exams.
Once all requirements are completed, candidates must submit an application and pay a fee. Next, they submit official transcripts and other materials through the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) Psychology Licensure Universal Application (PLUS) online system.
Upon receipt of PLUS information, the OSBEP will determine your eligibility for licensure.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma?
It takes between 10-14 years to complete the education and training for Oklahoma psychology licensure. You’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree, which typically takes four years. A master’s degree requires a commitment of two to three years, but it is optional for many psychology doctoral programs.
A doctorate takes four to eight years, depending on whether it’s a Ph.D. or Psy.D. Candidates must also fulfill two years of supervised internship and postdoctoral experience under a licensed psychologist.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has a psychologist licensing reciprocity agreement only with Texas. Oklahoma also issues psychology licenses by endorsement to diplomates of the American Board of Professional Psychology, or those with a current Certificate of Professional Qualification in Psychology from ASPPB.
Applicants should follow the guidelines to be considered for licensure by endorsement of reciprocity. Psychologists seeking either must complete an application form and return it to OSBEP. The application fee is $400.
Note that Oklahoma is part of PSYPACT, which allows for the interstate practice of telepsychology and temporary in-person practice.
How to Renew a Psychology License in Oklahoma
Psychologists in Oklahoma must renew their license annually. To qualify for renewal, psychologists must complete at least 20 continuing professional education hours for the following year. Psychologists must submit all CPE hours to the Board’s license renewal portal by December 31st each year and pay the $400 renewal fee.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in Oklahoma
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Oklahoma’s psychologists earned average annual salaries ranging from $66,730 to $126,730, depending on their specialty.
Some Oklahoma psychologists earn less than the national average. Oklahoma’s average annual salary for school psychologists was $66,730, starkly lower than the $93,610 national average. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Oklahoma made $97,350, less than the $106,850 national average.
However, all other psychologists in Oklahoma earned $126,730, higher than the $111,340 national average annual salary. Note that Oklahoma ranks in the top five states for low cost of living, which can help compensate for lower salaries.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $97,350 | $46.80 |
| School Psychologists | $66,730 | $32.08 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $126,730 | $60.93 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Oklahoma
- Oklahoma Psychological Association: OPA advances the interests of Oklahoma’s psychologists through activities such as advocacy at the legislative level and promoting the highest standards of practice. Member benefits include access to continuing education discounts, mentorship, and networking events.
- Oklahoma School Psychological Association: OSPA advocates for high standards and best practices in school psychology and provides members with opportunities for professional growth. Member benefits include access to a professional network and events.
