Licensed experts who help individuals with mental, behavioral and emotional problems are called psychologists. The Board of Examiners of Psychology in Tennessee issues licenses to psychologists in this state. If you are interested in working in this state, this detailed guide can help you begin.

Should I Become a Psychologist in Tennessee

Psychologists can also specialize like other doctors and work in a specific field. There are various kinds of psychologists based on the area they choose to specialize in such as, Industrial & Organizational Psychologists, Clinical, Counseling & School Psychologists and all other Psychologists etc. Usually all types of psychologists have some common duties like,

  • Giving one-on-one consultations to patients
  • Identifying psychological, behavioral and emotional problems
  • Talking about possible treatments with patients and so on
Education Required A doctoral degree
Major Requirement Psychology
License/Certification A state issued license is necessary
Experience/Training 2 years of supervised work experience
Key Skills Analytical, Observational, Communication, Problem-solving and Organizational skills; Patience and Integrity etc.
Annual Mean Salary (2019)-National $98,230 (Psychologists, All Other)
Annual Mean Salary (2019)-Tennessee $85,800 (Psychologists, All Other)
Job Outlook(2018-2028) 14% (Faster than the average)

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

Career Outlook

According to the data reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2019, Tennessee had an employment level of 260 for “Psychologists, All Others.” Furthermore, a 14% rise in employment for psychologists has been predicted between 2018 and 2028.

Steps to Become a Psychologist in Tennessee

Becoming a psychologist requires a great deal of patience, mental strength and integrity. If you think this career is for you then, follow this guide and let’s get stared!

    1. A Bachelor’s Degree

A bachelor’s degree in Psychology is the first step towards becoming a psychologist. Many universities in Tennessee offer this degree such as, the Tennessee State University offers a 4-year BS in Psychology.

    1. A Master’s Degree (Optional)

A master’s degree is only required if you have not completed your bachelor’s in Psychology or your grades were not good enough for direct admission in a doctoral degree. The Tennessee State University offers a master’s degree in Psychology.

    1. A Doctoral Degree in Psychology
To be able to get employment as a licensed psychologist, the minimum educational requirement in the US is a doctoral degree which can be completed in 4-6 years. The Tennessee State University offers a PhD degree in Psychology.
    1. Field Experience

All graduates of a doctoral degree in Psychology must complete 2 years of work experience under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. It is mandatory for licensure.

    1. State Issued License
All psychologists who want to be employed in the state of Tennessee have to apply for a license through the Tennessee Board of Examiners of Psychology and the details of licensure process are described below.

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

Becoming a psychologist is a laborious task which may take you approximately 10-12 years to complete or may be even more depending upon the educational decisions you make.

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

To become licensed in the state of Tennessee as a psychologist, you must:

  • Possess an APA or an ASPPB accredited doctoral degree in Psychology
  • Have gained work experience of 2 years under the supervision of a licensed psychologist
  • Clear the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
  • Pass the Ethics and Jurisprudence Exams after acquiring the Board’s permission
  • Be of a good moral character

 

How Much Can I Make as a Psychologist in Tennessee?

In 2019, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported $85,800 as the annual mean salary of Psychologists, All Other employed in Tennessee. In addition to that, California was listed as the highest paying state for this career in 2019 with an annual mean income of $117,610.