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Louisiana Psychology Licensure Requirements – How to Become a Psychologist in Louisiana for 2025
Employment in Louisiana is anticipated to grow by 8.3% until 2026, a bit faster than the predicted growth rate for the whole U.S. economy. Specific industries in the state are expected to experience even more drastic expansion. Employment in the healthcare and social assistance fields is pegged to increase by almost 12% within the period, adding approximately 34,000 new jobs (Louisiana Workforce Commission, n.d.).
You can take advantage of the most lucrative careers in these sectors. Our team has delved into Louisiana psychology license requirements, alongside the state’s psychology industry, state licensure application and renewal process, and the top psychology programs in Louisiana for your future reference. We even included options for affordable psychology degrees and courses online.
Louisiana Psychology Licensure Requirements Table of Contents
According to 2022 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 1,100 psychology professionals were employed in Louisiana. From a mental health or wellness perspective, this low figure may cause potential issues, especially since data from a KFF (2023) analysis indicates that 39.1% of adults in Louisiana reported symptoms of mental health issues like depressive disorder and anxiety.
As it is, long-term occupational projections reveal similarly low figures, with only 20 annual openings for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in Louisiana until 2030 (Projections Central, n.d.). Interestingly, despite the apparent scarcity of psychologists in the state, Louisiana is one of only five states in the U.S. that permits psychologists with specialized training to provide prescription drugs.
In terms of the average psychologist salary Louisiana employers offer, school psychologists in the state get $61,970, $73,350 for psychology teachers including postsecondary, and $69,940 for other psychologist roles (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023).
How to become a psychologist in Louisiana? The journey starts with getting the prerequisite education. Louisiana students will be glad to learn that they have numerous options when it comes to getting the psychology education they need. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, 23 Louisiana schools offer a bachelor’s degree in psychology, while 15 educational institutions in the state offer a master’s or advanced degree in psychology.
Getting a Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree is the first step to completing the Louisiana psychology license requirements. Psychology bachelor’s degrees typically require a minimum of 120 credits and take around 4 years to finish for full-time enrollees. Majoring in psychology at this phase is not needed yet; however, choosing a different major will likely end you up being asked to take additional prerequisites before entering graduate study in the field.
Pursuing a Master’s Degree
Since a master’s degree in psychology is optional, many have been asking, “What can you do with a masters degree in psychology?" Besides landing upper psychology positions, one can also make do with a higher clinical psychologist salary Louisiana facilities offer. It can even be taken as an independent program as it can provide more experience in psychology and help in deciding to take a doctoral degree. Master’s programs in psychology normally take two to three years depending on requirements.
Advancing into a Doctorate Degree
The final step is to take a doctoral degree in psychology, which the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists requires for licensure. These programs usually take between four and seven years and bestow either a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Psychology. Any of these programs will equip one to become a Louisiana psychologist.
Make sure that your doctoral degree fulfills Louisiana psychology license requirements set forth by the Louisiana board of psychology. For psychology licensure, students must pursue degrees accredited by the APA or listed by the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology or the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). Otherwise, the Board will have to evaluate information about the degree.
A doctoral degree in psychology involving working closely with patients needs to also include a minimum of 1,500 supervised internship hours in a healthcare environment and 300 hours of supervised practicum experience. Up to 2,000 hours of predoctoral internship can be added up toward the supervised experience mandated for licensure. To be eligible, the internship must be an organized one that carries out two hours every week of individual supervision, two hours every week of didactics, and a minimum of 375 hours of activities related to the service.
Enrolling in Post-Doctoral Studies
As previously mentioned, Louisiana psychologists can also get licensed to prescribe drugs to patients. Individuals planning to become licensed as medical or prescribing psychologists in Louisiana must also complete an accredited post-doctoral master’s degree in clinical psychopharmacology and pass a board-approved national exam in psychopharmacology.
Louisiana Psychology License Requirements: Application and Renewal Process
Submit your Application for Provisional License. At this stage, you must also send all your graduate transcripts to the Board, pay an application fee amounting to $200, and undergo a criminal background check. You need to submit an Internship Supervision Documentation form and a Supervised Practice Plan too.
Upon the issuance of your license, you can then register for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). In this 225 multiple-choice exam, you need to gain a scaled score of 500 or higher. You can take it any time after you get permission from the Board, even while you are still acquiring your supervised experience hours.
After passing the EPPP and meeting all Louisiana psychology license requirements, you will be granted approval to take the state and jurisprudence exams. If you succeed in the oral exam, you will get your license within the same day.
Renewing your license regularly is important. Licenses expire on the 31st of July annually and must be renewed prior to this date. License renewal can either be completed and mailed in a renewal form or via the online portal and costs $350 per year.
You will also have to fulfill 40 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years (Louisiana Psychological Association, n.d.). You will have to report fulfillment of such hours on even- or odd-numbered years, which depends on your license number. During every two-year renewal period, at least two CE hours must be in law or ethics. In addition, it is a requirement to obtain credits in at least two of these categories: professional activities, academic activities, and traditional activities. Activities need to be sponsored by entities approved by the Board.
Out-of-State Licenses
Now comes the next question: how to be a therapist in Louisiana if you are not a resident? The state implements a specific reciprocity with Texas. Psychologists with ASPPB Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) or are diplomates of the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) are also qualified for reciprocity.
Out-of-state psychologists may be authorized to practice under supervision while obtaining Louisiana psychology license requirements. Meanwhile, those who plan to practice for not over 30 days in a year may apply for a temporary practice permit.
Emerging Trends in Louisiana's Psychology Landscape
Understanding the evolving psychology landscape in Louisiana can help professionals align their expertise with current and future needs. One key trend is the increasing focus on integrating telepsychology into clinical practice. As telehealth gains popularity, psychologists are adopting virtual platforms to reach underserved areas, particularly rural communities, where access to mental health care remains limited. This trend is not only expanding the reach of mental health services but is also prompting updates to state licensure laws to incorporate telehealth-specific training.
Moreover, interdisciplinary collaboration is on the rise. Psychologists are increasingly working alongside other healthcare professionals in integrated care settings to address complex mental and physical health challenges. This has created demand for psychologists trained in holistic, patient-centered approaches.
Additionally, students and professionals interested in a solid foundation or specialization should explore the best colleges for psychology in Louisiana for comprehensive programs that align with emerging industry needs. Higher education institutions in the state continue to refine and expand their curricula to prepare graduates for these dynamic opportunities.
By understanding and adapting to these trends, psychology professionals can better equip themselves for a fulfilling career while making a significant impact on Louisiana's mental health landscape.
What are some key challenges psychologists face in Louisiana?
Practicing psychology in Louisiana comes with unique challenges that prospective psychologists should be aware of, especially given the state’s specific healthcare landscape and mental health needs:
High Demand for Mental Health Services: Louisiana has a significant population with mental health needs, with 39.1% of adults reporting symptoms of mental health issues (KFF, 2023). This high demand creates pressure on available professionals and often results in long wait times for patients seeking psychological care.
Limited Number of Licensed Psychologists: With only around 1,100 psychology professionals in the state, the low supply of licensed practitioners compared to demand makes it challenging to serve all communities effectively, particularly rural areas that may lack access to services.
Socioeconomic Barriers to Care: Louisiana faces high poverty rates, which can limit access to mental health resources for some residents. Psychologists may encounter challenges when working with patients who face financial difficulties in covering treatment costs or accessing supportive resources.
State-Specific Prescriptive Authority Requirements: Louisiana allows qualified psychologists to prescribe medication, but the process requires extensive additional training and certification, posing a unique professional hurdle for those pursuing this pathway.
Understanding these challenges is essential for psychology professionals to navigate the demands and limitations within Louisiana’s mental health care environment.
What are the ethical guidelines for psychologists in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, psychologists must adhere to ethical guidelines set forth by the Louisiana State Board of Psychology and national standards from organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA). These guidelines ensure that psychologists maintain professional conduct, respect client confidentiality, and provide ethical care. Understanding and following these ethical standards is essential for maintaining licensure and building a trusted reputation.
Here are vital ethical guidelines for psychologists practicing in Louisiana:
Confidentiality and Privacy: Psychologists must protect their client's confidentiality, sharing information only with explicit consent or when legally required. This includes maintaining privacy regarding test results, therapy sessions, and other sensitive information.
Informed Consent: Psychologists must obtain informed consent from their clients before providing psychological services. This involves explaining the nature of the services, potential risks, and the limits of confidentiality.
Competence: Psychologists must practice only within the scope of their expertise. If a situation requires a skill set they do not possess, they must obtain the necessary competence or refer the client to a more qualified professional.
Dual Relationships: Dual relationships occur when a psychologist has multiple relationships with a client, such as being both a therapist and a friend. These relationships should be avoided, as they can impair objectivity and lead to conflicts of interest.
Cultural Competence: Psychologists in Louisiana must demonstrate cultural sensitivity, respecting and understanding their clients' diverse backgrounds. This helps provide equitable and appropriate care for all individuals.
Supervision and Continuing Education: Ethical practice includes ongoing supervision and professional development. Psychologists should continuously update their knowledge and skills, which can be facilitated through opportunities like enrolling in an online masters in psychology program. This ensures they remain competent and current with the latest ethical and clinical standards.
Can pursuing an ABA certification enhance my psychology career in Louisiana?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) training offers a robust framework for implementing evidence-based behavioral interventions, a competency highly valued across educational, clinical, and community settings. Earning an ABA certification can expand a psychology professional’s ability to address complex behavioral challenges and complement traditional licensure by enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. For those considering this advancement, exploring the best ABA programs is a recommended step to identify accredited courses that align with individual career goals and the evolving demands of mental health care in Louisiana.
How can pursuing BCBA certification enhance my career in Louisiana?
BCBA certification extends the scope of psychology practice by integrating behavior analysis into clinical, educational, and community settings. Certified professionals can address complex behavioral challenges with evidence-based interventions while boosting interdisciplinary collaboration and enhancing service delivery outcomes. For detailed guidance on requirements and the certification process, see how to become a BCBA in Louisiana.
List of Top Psychology Programs in Louisiana for 2025
Your choice of psychology program matters, especially since there are various psychology specializations available today, including majors and degrees in business psychology, school psychology, and industrial/organizational psychology. Our team has put together this list to help you decide. We have weighed each program by program length, concentrations offered, costs, and more.
1. University of Louisiana-Monroe, Psychology
University of Louisiana-Monroe offers a psychology major that exposes students to the most recent trends in the field. The program is facilitated by a highly experienced faculty with the most varied interests, real-world experiences, and research relevant within and outside the classroom. It is also a good preparation for master’s degrees, which even include the forensic psychology program.
Program Length: N/A
Total Average Cost: $9,551 (resident); $12,100 (nonresident)
Required Credits to Graduate: N/A
Accreditation: SACSCOC
2. Tulane University, Masters in Social Work
One of the best masters in psychology online programs is found at Tulane University. The university’s master’s degree in social work has been prominent in the field for over 100 years. Faculty at Tulane University integrate unique factors such as New Orleans’ resilience in handling disasters, resourcefulness, and innovation into the program’s coursework to sufficiently prepare students for fieldwork in psychology.
Program Length: 16-32 months
Cost Per Credit: $1,276
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
3. Loyola University New Orleans, BS in Psychological Sciences
If you’re asking how to become a therapist in Louisiana, the answer may be Loyola University New Orleans‘ BS in Psychological Sciences. Roughly a third of its students proceed to a graduate program in clinical, counseling, experimental, and industrial, while the rest focus on social work, law, medicine, and business. The university also offers an online BA in Psychological Sciences.
Program Length: 4 years
Tuition: $47,740 (off-campus); $62,240 (resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: SACSCOC
4. Louisiana State University, BS in Psychology
The BS in Psychology offered by the Louisiana State University centers on the understanding of human behavior and prepares students for medical school or graduate study in psychology. It helps develop skills in biological, cognitive, clinical, and school psychology. The department also has an active honors program through which students can be mentored by faculty members on their research.
5. University of New Orleans, PhD in Counselor Education
University of New Orleans offers a PhD that prepares graduates for faculty and research roles as counselor educators and for leadership roles in mental health, counseling, and consultation careers. Here, students complete the degree by writing a qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method research dissertation with a conceptual scheme.
Program Length: N/A
Tracks/Concentrations: Counselor Education, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Counseling Children, and more
Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP)
What are the requirements for obtaining counseling licensure in Louisiana?
Louisiana establishes a distinct pathway for those pursuing counseling licensure, which emphasizes a specialized educational and clinical training framework. Candidates are typically expected to earn a master’s degree from an accredited counseling program, garner a specified number of supervised clinical hours, and pass state-specific examinations that affirm their competency in therapeutic practices. This licensure process is tailored to the counseling profession’s scope of practice in addressing mental health through direct client interventions. For detailed guidance on the required steps and qualifications, review how to become an LPC in Louisiana.
How can integrating social work complement my psychology career in Louisiana?
Exploring an interdisciplinary approach can offer enhanced strategies for treating clients by merging psychological expertise with social work practices. Professionals may benefit from acquiring additional competencies in case management, community outreach, and holistic treatment modalities that address both mental health and socio-environmental factors. For example, understanding the educational pathway—what degree do you need to be a social worker in Louisiana—can help psychology practitioners expand their scope of practice and deliver more comprehensive care in underserved communities.
What steps are needed to pursue a career in school psychology in Louisiana?
Professionals aiming to specialize in school psychology must meet distinct academic and practical requirements beyond standard psychology licensure. They need to undertake coursework focused on child development, educational assessment, and intervention strategies, as well as engage in fieldwork within school environments. Selecting accredited programs that offer tailored practicum experiences is essential for developing skills in assessment of learning and behavioral challenges in educational settings. For detailed guidance on the specialized pathway, review how to become a school psychologist in Louisiana.
What other licensure options are available for psychology professionals in Louisiana?
In addition to the traditional psychology licensure, professionals in Louisiana can also explore other options such as the MFT license in Louisiana to expand their career opportunities and specialize in specific areas of psychology, such as marriage and family therapy. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, career advancement, and a broader range of professional development opportunities.
How can integrating counseling practices complement psychology careers in Louisiana?
Expanding practice to include counseling competencies can diversify service offerings and improve client outcomes. Combining traditional psychology expertise with counseling techniques supports a more holistic approach to mental health care and can further engage underserved populations. Professionals may explore targeted training programs that provide clinical counseling methodologies and regulatory knowledge, offering a competitive edge in a multifaceted industry. For those seeking accelerated entry into counseling roles, review our guide on the shortest path to become a counselor in Louisiana to gain insights into streamlined credentialing processes that complement psychological practice.
What specialized certifications can enhance psychology careers in Louisiana?
In addition to standard licensure, professionals can pursue specialized certifications that broaden their scope of practice within targeted fields. Focus areas such as forensic psychology, neuropsychology, and behavioral health interventions offer additional career pathways that address emerging mental health needs statewide. For example, obtaining certification in substance abuse counseling can open opportunities in rehabilitation centers, community health programs, and addiction treatment facilities. Consider exploring our guide on how to become a substance abuse counselor in Louisiana to expand your expertise and meet the evolving demands of Louisiana’s mental health landscape.
What makes criminal psychology a compelling specialization in Louisiana?
Criminal psychology represents a distinct niche that intersects forensic analysis with clinical expertise, enabling professionals to address behavioral aspects of criminal behavior while supporting the justice system. This specialization leverages advanced analytical skills and specialized training to contribute effectively to case assessments and collaborate with law enforcement agencies. For further insights on entering this field, review how to become a criminal psychologist in Louisiana.
What opportunities exist for psychology professionals in Louisiana to advance their career?
Psychologists in Louisiana have various avenues to further their career development and professional growth. These opportunities not only enhance their skills but also expand their areas of expertise, allowing for greater job satisfaction and career advancement.
Specialization and Advanced Certifications: Psychologists who want to distinguish themselves in the field can pursue specializations in areas like clinical neuropsychology, forensic psychology, or health psychology. Certification from recognized organizations, such as the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), can increase employability and lead to higher-paying positions.
Postdoctoral Fellowships and Training: Engaging in postdoctoral training can provide psychologists with specialized knowledge and practical experience. Programs in areas such as clinical psychopharmacology allow professionals to expand their skill set, such as prescribing medication in states like Louisiana, where qualified psychologists can obtain prescribing authority after completing additional training.
Behavioral Psychology Degree: For professionals looking to balance work with further education, pursuing a behavioral psychology degree online can be a flexible option. This allows them to stay updated on the latest trends and research, while working around their current career demands.
Teaching and Academia: With a doctoral degree, psychologists can explore opportunities to teach at universities or colleges. By obtaining a faculty position, they can contribute to the training of future professionals and conduct research, potentially influencing the field of psychology at a broader level.
Leadership and Administrative Roles: Experienced psychologists can move into leadership or administrative positions in hospitals, schools, or mental health clinics. These roles often involve managing teams, developing programs, and shaping organizational policies, offering a different career trajectory within the psychology field.
Private Practice: Many psychologists in Louisiana opt to open their private practices, offering flexibility and the ability to cater to specific client needs. Building a successful private practice requires entrepreneurial skills, including marketing, financial management, and client relationship building, which are often learned through experience or courses in business management.
What professional networks and research opportunities can enhance psychology practice in Louisiana?
Engaging in robust professional networks and research initiatives offers psychology professionals vital avenues for skill refinement and industry insights. Participation in local and national organizations facilitates access to cutting-edge studies, collaborative projects, and specialized events that keep practitioners informed about emerging practices. These platforms also serve as conduits for mentorship and cross-disciplinary dialogue, enhancing both clinical and organizational competencies. For guidance on diversifying career pathways through advanced training, explore What can I do with masters in industrial organizational psychology?.
Making a Positive Change Through Psychology
In Louisiana’s diverse environment, psychology as a career gives varied opportunities for those aiming to make a positive change through their occupation. As the attention on mental health and the mandates for psychological services broadens, the demand for skilled professionals across psychology specializations also expands. Even students taking a psychology degree online accredited program should be excited about what awaits them.
The state offers a vast array of possibilities to individuals interested in pursuing psychology, allowing them to make a significant contribution to the well-being not just of Louisiana residents but also to nearby communities.
Key Insights
Employment Growth: Louisiana's employment is anticipated to grow by 8.3% until 2026, with healthcare and social assistance fields expected to increase by nearly 12%, adding approximately 34,000 new jobs.
Psychology Job Openings: Despite a low number of psychologists currently employed in Louisiana, the state offers significant opportunities for growth, with projected openings for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists.
Lucrative Salaries: Louisiana psychologists earn competitive salaries, with school psychologists earning $61,970, psychology teachers $73,350, and other psychologist roles $69,940 annually.
Educational Pathways: To become a licensed psychologist in Louisiana, one must complete a bachelor's degree, a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD), and fulfill supervised internship and practicum requirements.
Licensure Process: The licensure process involves submitting an application, gaining supervised professional experience, passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the jurisprudence exam, and renewing the license annually with continuing education requirements.
Top Programs: Louisiana is home to several top psychology programs, including those at the University of Louisiana-Monroe, Tulane University, Loyola University New Orleans, Louisiana State University, and the University of New Orleans.
FAQ
1. What are the educational requirements to become a licensed psychologist in Louisiana?
To become a licensed psychologist in Louisiana, you must complete a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology. The doctoral program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or listed by the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology or the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
2. What is the job outlook for psychologists in Louisiana?
The job outlook for psychologists in Louisiana is promising, with employment in the healthcare and social assistance fields expected to increase by nearly 12% until 2026. Despite a low number of current openings, the demand for skilled psychologists is anticipated to grow, particularly in clinical, counseling, and school psychology.
3. What are the steps to obtain a psychology license in Louisiana?
The steps to obtain a psychology license in Louisiana include:
Completing a bachelor's degree and a doctoral degree in psychology.
Submitting an application for a provisional license, including graduate transcripts, application fee, criminal background check, Internship Supervision Documentation form, and Supervised Practice Plan.
Gaining two years (3,500 hours) of supervised professional experience.
Passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) with a scaled score of 500 or higher.
Passing the state and jurisprudence exams.
Renewing the license annually and completing 40 hours of continuing education every two years.
4. What are the salary expectations for psychologists in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, school psychologists earn a median annual salary of $61,970, psychology teachers earn $73,350, and other psychologist roles earn $69,940. Salaries may vary based on factors such as experience, specialization, and place of employment.
5. What are the top psychology programs in Louisiana?
Some top psychology programs in Louisiana include:
University of Louisiana-Monroe: Offers a psychology major with preparation for master's degrees, including forensic psychology.
Tulane University: Offers a prominent master's degree in social work with coursework integrating resilience and innovation.
Loyola University New Orleans: Offers a BS in Psychological Sciences and an online BA in Psychological Sciences.
Louisiana State University: Offers a BS in Psychology with tracks in forensic psychology and cognitive neuroscience.
University of New Orleans: Offers a PhD in Counselor Education with various specializations.
6. What continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal in Louisiana?
Licensed psychologists in Louisiana must renew their licenses annually by July 31 and complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years. At least two of these hours must be in law or ethics, and credits must be obtained in at least two categories: professional activities, academic activities, and traditional activities. Activities must be sponsored by entities approved by the Board.
7. Can out-of-state psychologists practice in Louisiana?
Out-of-state psychologists can practice in Louisiana under specific conditions. The state has reciprocity agreements with Texas, and psychologists with an ASPPB Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) or diplomates of the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) are eligible for reciprocity. Out-of-state psychologists can practice under supervision while obtaining Louisiana licensure requirements or apply for a temporary practice permit for up to 30 days annually.
8. What supervised professional experience is required for licensure?
To obtain a psychology license in Louisiana, you must complete two years (3,500 hours) of supervised professional experience. This includes a minimum of 1,750 hours after earning your doctoral degree, with at least 1,000 hours of client interactions per year, 200 hours of supervised work, and 550 hours of administrative work.
9. What types of psychology degrees are offered in Louisiana?
Louisiana offers various psychology degrees, including bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees (PhD and PsyD) in psychology. These programs are available at institutions such as the University of Louisiana-Monroe, Tulane University, Loyola University New Orleans, Louisiana State University, and the University of New Orleans.
10. How can I advance my career in psychology in Louisiana?
To advance your career in psychology in Louisiana, consider obtaining additional certifications, pursuing post-doctoral studies, gaining specialized training in areas such as clinical psychopharmacology, and fulfilling continuing education requirements. Engaging in professional activities, academic pursuits, and traditional educational activities can also enhance your skills and knowledge in the field.