How to Get Psychology License New Jersey

If the human mind fascinates you, then you might want to consider starting a career in psychology. Skim through this article to understand how to become a psychologist in New Jersey.

Psychologists identify and evaluate mental health conditions of patients and provide therapeutic interventions to improve their behavior and lifestyles.

If you aspire to practice as a licensed psychologist in New Jersey, then you will have to meet the following requirements:

1. Education Requirements
You will have to complete a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), after completing your bachelor’s and master’s degree in psychology.

2. Training Requirements
The state of New Jersey has set certain work experience requirements as well. You will have to complete two years of work experience in order to be deemed eligible to apply for the license.

3. Certification and Licensing Requirements
After meeting the education and training requirements, you will have to apply to the New Jersey Board of Psychology in order to get licensed.

The following stages are involved in becoming a psychologist in New Jersey:

1. Complete a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree
You will be required to complete an undergraduate degree (Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts) in psychology. After completing your bachelor’s program, you can enroll in a Master of Arts or a Master of Science in psychology. These degrees will expose you to topics related to Social Psychology, Perception, Clinical Psychology and Techniques in Behavior Modification.

2. Get a Doctorate Degree and Meet the Training Requirements
You will have to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), to be able to meet the licensure requirements. The doctoral program must be accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association or the American Psychological Association. You will also need to complete two years of work experience to meet the training requirements.

3. Get Licensed!
Once you have met the work and education experience requirements, you will then have to file a licensure application with the New Jersey Board of Psychology. The details of the licensing procedure are listed below:

• The application form will ask for a brief summary of your employment and educational background, along with details about your social security number, immigration status and license history, etc.
• You will be required to attach all supporting material with the application packet. The supporting documents will include certificates of good moral character and official transcripts, along with proof of employment.
• Since the recent legislation makes it compulsory for the Division of Consumer Affairs to carry out a criminal record check before issuing a permit or a license, you will have to complete a Certification and Authorization form and mail it to the Board. Once the Board receives this form, they will share with you the information needed to get your biometrics done for the criminal history check. You will also have to clear the Board exams in order to obtain your license.

According to the employment stats published by O*Net Online, the yearly median salary of Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists in New Jersey was $85,160 in 2018, which was much higher than the national average of $76,990.