Vermont, recently named one of the top states to live in due to its low crime rate and scenic surroundings, provides one of the safest living environments in the United States. The state's shortage of mental health professionals also makes Vermont an ideal location for licensed psychologists looking to start their careers.
Read on to explore more on psychologist licensing in Vermont, the demand for psychology professionals, and expected Vermont psychologist salary ranges.
| Job Title | Lowest 10% | Median Annual Salary | Highest 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical and counseling psychologists | $30,450 | $62,260 | $104,580 |
| School psychologists | $50,510 | $80,500 | $100,040 |
| Psychologists, all other | $77,020 | $98,280 | $119,770 |
Source: BLS
Online Doctorate Programs in Psychology
Psychologist Licensing in Vermont
Psychologist licensing in Vermont is regulated by the Vermont Board of Psychological Examiners. Obtaining a psychologist license in Vermont requires the fulfillment of 4,000 supervisory hours, as well as the completion of two exams.
Vermont participates in licensure by endorsement for out-of-state psychologists who are already licensed and in good standing. In order to become licensed in Vermont, applicants must submit a Verification of Licensure form, along with an application fee. Applicants must also complete Vermont's state-specific jurisprudence exam.
Due to legislative provisions prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, out-of-state licensed psychologists may provide telehealth services to Vermont residents after registering with Vermont's Office of Professional Regulation. This emergency stipulation is in effect until March 31, 2023.
To obtain psychologist licensing in Vermont, applicants must meet the following criteria:
License Requirements
Graduate from an American Psychological Association-accredited, or a similarly accredited doctoral program. Complete 4,000 hours of supervised experience, half of which must be postdoctoral. Submit an application through Vermont's online licensing platform and pay a $175 fee. Complete Vermont's state-specific open book jurisprudence exam and upload with the application. Pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology and pay a $687.50 fee.
Demand for Psychology in Vermont
Vermont's ongoing mental health staff shortages have adversely impacted its population. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 30,000 Vermont residents were unable to access behavioral health services in 2021. Agencies across the state echo this issue, reporting that the wait for mental health services continues to grow.
As of late 2021, 970 positions throughout Vermont's multiple mental health agencies remained unfilled. Local organizations' excessive vacancies jeopardize their missions to provide prompt psychological service to Vermont residents.
Attracting licensed psychologists to Vermont by offering employment incentives may prove beneficial to securing essential services for the state's residents.