Psychologists are licensed mental health experts dedicated to helping people with behavioral, mental and emotional disorders. The Illinois Clinical Psychologists Licensing and Disciplinary Board regulates the licensure process in this state. If you are curious about how to become a psychologist in Illinois, continue reading this concise guide.

Should I Become a Psychologist in Illinois

Psychologists usually work either in public or private clinics or hospitals. They provide consultations to their patients. Their basic job is to identify and diagnose mental, emotional or behavioral problems and suggest appropriate treatments. Psychologists may also choose to team-up with other health care professionals and carry out research. There are other psychologists who work in educational settings too.

Education Required A doctoral degree
Major Requirement Psychology
License/Certification State issued license is mandatory
Experience/Training Supervised work experience-2 years
Key Skills Problem-solving, Analytical, Organizational, Communication and Observational Skills; Integrity and Patience etc.
Annual Mean Salary (2019)-National $87,450 (Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists)
Annual Mean Salary (2019)-Illinois $75,050 (Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists)
Job Outlook(2018-2028) 14% (Faster than the average)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2019)

Career Outlook

In 2019, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Illinois had an employment level of 5,100 for Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists. Not only that, the BLS also projected a 14% rise in employment for all psychologists in the US between 2018 and 2028. This prediction was based on the expected rise in the demand for psychologists in the US.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in Illinois

If you intend on working as a licensed psychologist in Illinois, then you must complete all educational, work and licensure requirements. To help you get started, here is a 5-step guideline.

    1. Complete a Bachelor’s Degree
There are numerous universities in Illinois that offer this degree like, the Eastern Illinois University that offers an online BA in Psychology. A typical bachelor’s degree can be completed in approx. 4-years’ time.
    1. Earn a Master’s Degree
You may have to graduate from a master’s degree in Psychology depending upon your grades. The University of Illinois offers a 2-year master’s degree in Psychological Science.
    1. Get a Doctoral Degree
All Psychologists in the US are mandated to complete a doctoral degree which can be earned in 4-6 years. The University of Illinois also offers a PhD degree in Psychology.
    1. Gain Field Experience
Acquiring at least 2 years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed psychologist is also mandatory for all psychologists who want to work in the US.
    1. Acquire a State Issued License
The Illinois Clinical Psychologists Licensing and Disciplinary Board issues licenses to all psychologists. In order to practice, psychologists in the state of Illinois must be licensed and the requirements of licensure are described below.

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

The duration of becoming a licensed psychologist varies for almost everyone based on the decisions they make regarding education and work. However, it typically takes 10 to 12 years to become a psychologist.

What Are the Requirements of Becoming a Licensed Psychologist in Illinois?

To be employed as a licensed psychologist in the state of Illinois, you must provide proof of:

  • Completing an APA/ASPPB accredited doctoral degree in Psychology
  • Having 2 years of work experience under a licensed psychologist
  • Clearing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
  • Passing the Jurisprudence Examination

For further details, visit the official website of the Illinois Clinical Psychologists Licensing and Disciplinary Board.

How Much Can I Make as a Psychologist in Illinois?

In 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported $75,050 as the annual mean salary of for all Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists employed in the state of Illinois.