The state of Arkansas, also called ‘The Natural State,’ offers lucrative opportunities for people working in the field of Psychology. As per the data shared by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists in Arkansas were paid an annual mean salary of $73,050 in 2019.

If you are passionate about helping people cope with mental issues, then you might want to read this informative piece. It will help you learn how to become a Psychologist in Arkansas.

Should I Become a Psychologist in Arkansas

A career in the field of psychology means that you will be exploring the human mind, feelings, and behavior. If you have an interest in such topics, then you should think about becoming a psychologist.

Before you make up your mind about establishing a career in this rewarding and competitive field, you should know about the basic training and education requirements. To find out more about these requirements, take a look at the following details.

Education Required Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) or Ph.D. in Psychology.
Training Required
Licenses/Certifications A license is required to practice.
Key Skills/Qualities Patience, Observational Skills, Analytical Skills. Other skills include communication and problem-solving skills.
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National $87,450 (Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists)
Job Outlook (2018-28) 14%
Annual Mean Salary (2019) – Arkansas $73,050 (Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists)

Career Outlook

Forecasted data shows that the overall employment of psychologists will increase by 14% from 2018 to 2028.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in Arkansas

The steps involved in becoming a psychologist in Arkansas are outlined below:

    1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree and/or a Master’s Degree

Aspiring psychologists should have a basic understanding of the Psychology theories and literature. Therefore, they are advised to enroll in a four-year long Bachelor of Science (B.S) or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A) program in Psychology.

After completing their undergraduate education, individuals should preferably enroll in a two-year long Master of Arts or Science in Psychology in order to prepare themselves for the doctoral degree. The curriculum of the Master’s program usually incorporates topics like, Advanced Principles of Psychology, Research Design and Advanced Statistics.

    1. Enroll in a Doctoral Program

Upon completing the Master’s coursework, individuals can admit themselves into a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)/Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology program. Candidates are also required to complete two years of qualified experience, one year of which should be post-doctoral.

    1. Apply for a License
The Arkansas Psychology Board is responsible for regulating the practice of Psychology in Arkansas. It is also responsible for issuing licenses to candidates. Thus, in order to become licensed, candidates have to send their licensure applications to the Board office, along with their supporting documents and application fees. Please keep in mind that issuance of license is dependent upon the passage of the Oral Exam and the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).

How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist in Arkansas?

The process of becoming a psychologist in Arkansas is indeed a long one and typically takes around 13 years. It involves earning a four-year long bachelor’s degree (B.A/B.S), a 2-year long Master’s degree (M.A/M.S), and a 7-year long doctoral degree (Psy.D./Ph.D.). Individuals also have to pass a series of competitive exams and have to complete training requirements in order to get the license.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Psychologist in Arkansas?

Candidates can practice Psychology in Arkansas if they have:

  • Obtained a doctoral degree in Psychology from a regionally accredited educational institute.
  • Completed two years of qualified experience, one year of which should be post-doctoral.
  • Passed the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
  • Cleared the State Board’s oral exam.
  • Have sent the licensure application to the Arkansas Psychology Board.

 

How Much Do Psychologists Earn in Arkansas?

Wage data shows that Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists employed in Arkansas made an annual mean salary of $73,050 in 2019.