Nevada Psychology Licensure Requirements – How to Become a Psychologist in Nevada for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Nevada, a destination for traversing vast deserts and indulging in lively entertainment, faces an unfortunate juxtaposition. Despite this happy exterior, 2,445,591 Nevadans reside in areas that lack mental health professionals (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2021). Moreover, the pressing need to enhance mental health care quality and accessibility in the state underscores the demand for professionals with a Nevada psychology license.

Luckily, the employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is projected to increase by 7% from 2020 to 2030, while job opportunities for psychology teachers in postsecondary institutions will also grow by 10% (O*NET OnLine, n.d.-a; n.d.-b). This projection presents a compelling opportunity to enroll in psychology schools in the Silver State.

To guide aspiring psychologists, our team discusses how to become a therapist in Nevada and lists a few institutions offering a degree in psychology. We also include details on the landscape of the psychology industry, as well as information on the licensure application and requirements, to help you complete this process.

Nevada Psychology Licensure Requirements Table of Contents

1. Overview of the Psychology Industry in Nevada
2. Educational Requirements for Psychologists in Nevada
3. Nevada Psychology License Application and Renewal Process
4. How to Choose the Right Psychology Program in Nevada
5. List of Top Psychology Programs in Nevada for 2025
6. How can I integrate substance abuse counseling into my Nevada psychology practice?
7. Can Online Behavioral Science Degrees Provide a Competitive Edge in Nevada’s Psychological Landscape?
8. What are the most common challenges faced by psychologists in Nevada?
9. What are the differences between clinical psychologists and clinical mental health counselors?
10. Is a psychology degree worth it?
11. Can social work credentials complement a psychology career in Nevada?
12. Are there other licensure options for therapists in Nevada?
13. How can I become a criminal psychologist in Nevada?
14. What career opportunities are available to psychologists in Nevada?
15. How can I become a BCBA in Nevada?
16. How can I become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Nevada?
17. How can I become a school psychologist in Nevada?
18. What are the salary expectations for licensed psychologists in Nevada?

Overview of the Psychology Industry in Nevada

Aside from knowing the difference between psychology vs psychiatry, completing the required number of academic credits, and undergoing a few years of training, students aiming to earn their Nevada psychology license must familiarize themselves with the condition of psychology in the state. This helps you navigate the employment landscape, relevant policies, and specific challenges you need to prepare for in this field. Furthermore, it enables you to weigh all your options for a successful career.

• Improving performance. Based on Mental Health America’s annual overall state rankings, Nevada held the lowest position among all U.S. states from 2020 to 2022. This ranking measures various criteria about the nation’s state of mental health, including rates of adults and youth who have an illness, did not receive treatment, or had insurance. Nevada’s lackluster performance can be attributed to the low number of outpatient services and professionals. In a remarkable turn of events, however, it now secures the 29th position in the 2023 rankings, signifying a commendable development in its commitment to providing quality mental health care for all (Reinert et al., 2022).
• Collective efforts. To advance the cause of improving mental health services, those holding a Nevada psychology license and other experts work closely with legislators to push for reforms that strengthen the psychology profession’s scope. A few of these legislations include continuing telehealth services (SB 119), fortifying the CEU on cultural competencies (AB 267), funding loan repayments of behavioral healthcare providers (AB 45), and establishing the Behavioral Health Workforce Development Center, which aims to minimize unnecessary inpatient acceptance by strengthening health education, awareness, and outreach across the state (AB 37).
• Varying incomes. Nevadan clinical and counseling psychologists ($96,600) and school psychologists ($79,550) typically earn below the national average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). However, location and specialization, such as being instructors and other psychologists, also affect annual earning potentials. For instance, in Reno, psychology professors ($118,370) make more than clinical and counseling psychologists ($78,170). Meanwhile, school psychologists in nonmetropolitan areas ($83,310) earn more than Las Vegas professionals ($68,580). This demonstrates how location greatly affects demand and potential wages for psychologists in Nevada.
• Supportive community. The Nevada Psychological Association (NPA) represents not only practicing professionals but also psychology students in the state. Aside from networking and connection building, the NPA helps propel the profession forward by collaborating with experts in different fields or in other places. Moreover, they advocate for the welfare of psychologists and other mental health professionals in the state. The NPA also offers other helpful services and resources like approved CE courses, internships, and mentorship programs.

Educational Requirements for Psychologists in Nevada

Aspiring psychologists, including each student hoping to be a criminal psychologist, must attain the minimum academic credentials to be allowed to sit in for the Nevada psychology license exam. The basic requirement is a doctoral degree from an institution accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA).

However, to do that, you must also have an undergraduate degree, such as a business psychology bachelor degree or a general psychology degree, and optionally, a master’s degree. Most psychology schools also offer accelerated programs to expedite the time to completion. Moreover, the NV Psychology Board requires licensure candidates to complete 2,000 hours of pre-doctoral training (internship) and 1,750 hours of post-doctoral experience before taking the national exam.

Nevada Psychology License Application and Renewal Process

Aside from accomplishing Nevada licensing requirements for psychologists, you must follow the step-by-step process of the initial application as mandated by the Nevada Board of Psychology.

1. Obtain a bachelor’s degree and an optional master’s degree in psychology.
2. Pursue an accredited psychology doctorate, which should include the minimum internship hours.
3. Submit an application to become a registered psychological intern, trainee (for supervisors seeking MEDICAID reimbursement only), or assistant (post-doctoral). This should allow you to conduct your supervised internship, practicum, or post-doctoral training.
4. All Nevada psychology license candidates must complete the Psychology Licensure Universal System (PLUS) Portal Application and submit all necessary documents upon receiving an email from the Association for State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
5. Undergo the required supervised internship hours and the post-doctoral experience from on-campus or psychology online graduate programs.
6. Take the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
7. Accomplish the Nevada Psychological State Exam, an open-book test about the jurisprudence and ethics of psychologists. This can be taken after you have logged 1,400 hours of your post-doctoral training.
8. Apply for licensure at the Nevada Board of Psychology.

Furthermore, be sure to read the local board’s application timeline to check if you have complied accordingly. License renewals are due at the end of every even year, and you must complete 30 CEUs. This should include a minimum of six hours in scientific and professional ethics, standards, and misconduct, two hours in evidence-based suicide prevention and awareness, and two hours in cultural competency. Nevadan licensed psychologists may also conduct telepsychology, temporary in-person practice, or both in other PSYPACT states.

How to Choose the Right Psychology Program in Nevada

Selecting the ideal psychology program involves evaluating multiple factors to ensure alignment with your academic, professional, and personal goals. Nevada offers diverse psychology programs, but some key considerations can help narrow your options.

Accreditation and Curriculum

The first step in choosing a program is verifying its accreditation status. Programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or regional accrediting bodies guarantee quality education and meet the licensure requirements for a Nevada psychology license. Additionally, evaluate the curriculum to ensure it provides a comprehensive foundation in core topics, such as research methods, clinical practice, and psychological assessment. Specializations like health psychology or industrial-organizational psychology may also align better with your career aspirations.

Flexibility and Format

Your personal circumstances often dictate whether an on-campus, online, or hybrid learning format is best. Nevada institutions like the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and College of Southern Nevada cater to various learning preferences, offering flexible timelines and delivery models. These options can be particularly valuable for working professionals or those with other commitments.

Financial Considerations

Understanding the cost of tuition, availability of scholarships, and other financial aid options is essential. Many psychology schools in Nevada offer financial incentives, such as assistantships or grants, to make higher education more accessible. Research programs with affordability in mind while also factoring in the long-term return on investment, such as improved job prospects and earning potential.

Employment Outcomes and Networking

Investigate the employment success rates of program graduates. Schools with high graduate licensure rates, robust internship opportunities, or partnerships with local clinical and research facilities provide a competitive edge. For example, the University of Nevada, Reno prides itself on a 93% graduate licensure rate over a decade. Networking opportunities, such as access to professional associations, can further enrich your educational experience.

For more details on specific institutions that rank highly for psychology education, check out this list of the best colleges for psychology in Nevada. Exploring well-ranked options can ensure you invest your time and resources wisely, setting you up for long-term success.

List of Top Psychology Programs in Nevada for 2025

A promising career in psychology begins with quality education. Whether you aim to get a license or are just exploring what this field brings to the table, it is important to gain an overview of the different types of programs and degrees in psychology schools within the state. Therefore, to assist you in building up your credentials and eventually earning your Nevada psychology license, our team has rounded up a list of the best psychology schools in the state. Our team of experts at Research.com explored institutions’ academic offerings, curriculum, rankings, affordability, and other important metrics to create this lineup.

1. Truckee Meadows Community College

Truckee Meadows Community College assists students in their transition to a four-year university with its psychology transfer program. Learners can choose between an AA-BS or AA-BA track, which covers the first two years of a four-year study in psychology. The college centers on an empirical approach, blended with theoretical lectures and activities. Introductory topics in child psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics are just some courses students will take in this program. Students who wish to gain a license are encouraged to take the BS track, while those who aim to have a career in human resources, law, business, and education must take the BA track.

• Credit Hours: 60
• Estimated Tuition Cost: $115.50-$189.75/credit (resident), $242.75-$398.25/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: Online AA-BS/BA
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

2. College of Southern Nevada

The College of Southern Nevada offers an AAS in Applied Psychology: Mental Health Services for students who wish to dabble in the field but are not yet committed to getting a Nevada psychology license. Its program covers general studies, social science topics, and core lessons, including therapeutic interventions, medications, crisis communication, and mental illnesses. The curriculum also includes a capstone project where students can take their practical skills to the test. Aside from these core psychology lessons, students will complete general education courses in natural sciences, communication, math, and the humanities, which could help them transition to a four-year institution faster.

• Credit Hours: 60
• Estimated Tuition Cost: $115.50-$189.75/credit (resident), $127.25-$208.50/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: AA Psychology
• Accreditation: NWCCU

3. Nevada State University

Nevada State University provides an undergraduate degree (BA) where students can concentrate in General Psychology, Clinical and Mental Health, Developmental Psychology, and Intergroup Dynamics and Social Equity. Its comprehensive program features courses like lifespan development, neuroscience, and assessment and testing. To mold students into competent professionals, instructors closely guide them during the completion of the capstone project and supervise their undergraduate field experiences in different clinical settings. Moreover, learners can minor in related fields, such as social justice, business, or counseling, to complement their psychology degree. The university also implements an empirical approach to highlight research and other hands-on methods.

• Credit Hours: 120
• Estimated Tuition Cost: $189.75/credit (resident), $208.50/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: BAEd Early Childhood/Elementary Education Special Education
• Accreditation: NWCCU

4. University of Nevada, Reno

The University of Nevada, Reno, formerly Sierra Nevada University, offers three PhD specializations in psychology: Clinical Psychology, Social Psychology, and Behavior Analysis. Opening its doors to aspiring psychologists in 1972, the university has produced many successful professionals, garnering a 93% graduate licensure rate from 2012 to 2022. It fosters small learning environments and applies a clinical science model, focusing on research and clinical training activities to prepare students for the Nevada psychology license exam. Part of the students’ requirements is undergoing an internship in various Reno inpatient and outpatient settings. Undergraduate applicants will need at least a GPA of 3.0 while graduate students must have participated in conference presentations or contributed to research or publications to get into the program.

• Credit Hours: 72
• Estimated Tuition Cost: $321.75/credit (resident), $354/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: BA/BS, MS, MS-PhD
• Accreditation: NWCCU, APA

5. University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Providing one of the APA-accredited PhDs in the state, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas features a post-bachelor’s/master’s track that qualifies students to earn a Nevada psychology license. Concentrations include Clinical Psychology, Psychological and Brain Sciences, and Interdisciplinary Neuroscience. Each admission cycle, the university typically enrolls around eight to ten candidates whose GPAs do not fall below 3.7. There are guided plans for five-year and six-year timelines, but the first two years of studies will be dedicated to accomplishing master’s requirements while the rest will be focused on preparing students for licensure. Learners complete vital psychology courses, such as psychopathology, psychometrics, clinical interventions, cognitive neuroscience, and professional ethics, and undergo an internship, a practicum, and a dissertation.

• Credit Hours: 54-93
• Estimated Tuition Cost: $321.75/credit (resident), $675.75/credit (non-resident)
• Other Programs Offered: BA
• Accreditation: NWCCU, APA

How can I integrate substance abuse counseling into my Nevada psychology practice?

Psychologists interested in expanding their clinical services can diversify their expertise by incorporating substance abuse counseling into their practice. This integrated approach not only addresses a growing community need but also opens new avenues for treatment and client engagement. By specializing in substance abuse counseling, professionals can offer targeted interventions and behavioral strategies that complement traditional psychological services. To successfully adapt this focus, it is essential to meet Nevada’s specific training and certification standards, ensuring both compliance and clinical effectiveness. For detailed requirements and guidance on this specialized pathway, please review how to become a substance abuse counselor in Nevada.

Can Online Behavioral Science Degrees Provide a Competitive Edge in Nevada’s Psychological Landscape?

Online education offers an innovative pathway for students seeking flexibility without sacrificing educational quality. Accredited online programs, including a behavioral science degree online, deliver rigorous curricula that cover research methods, ethics, and clinical practice essential for meeting state licensure standards. These programs are designed to integrate seamlessly with hands-on learning components, such as supervised internships and practicum placements, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for Nevada’s professional demands. Evaluating factors like institutional accreditation, faculty expertise, and success rates in licensure examinations is crucial when considering online options as a strategic investment in one’s professional future.

What are the most common challenges faced by psychologists in Nevada?

Psychologists in Nevada face a unique set of challenges that can influence their practice and professional growth. While the demand for mental health services is high, several factors present obstacles for practitioners in the state.

• Mental Health Professional Shortages. Nevada is designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for mental health, meaning the state lacks an adequate number of qualified professionals to meet the population's needs. This shortage places additional pressure on psychologists to manage larger caseloads and extended waitlists. In rural and underserved areas, psychologists may face isolation from professional peers and fewer resources, which can impact the quality of care and opportunities for collaboration.
• Cultural Competency and Diversity. Nevada's diverse population, which includes a significant Hispanic and Native American demographic, requires psychologists to develop strong cultural competency skills. Understanding the unique mental health needs, social contexts, and cultural beliefs of these populations is crucial for providing effective care. Addressing language barriers and cultural stigmas around mental health can also be challenging.
• Economic Barriers to Accessing Care. Many Nevadans face financial limitations that prevent them from accessing mental health services. Even with insurance, high deductibles, and co-pays can deter individuals from seeking care. Psychologists must navigate these economic barriers, potentially offering sliding-scale fees or collaborating with community programs to improve access.
• Telehealth Implementation and Expansion. While telehealth offers an opportunity to extend services to remote areas, integrating this technology into clinical practice can be challenging. Psychologists may need to address issues like internet access in rural areas, maintain compliance with privacy regulations, and adapt their therapeutic techniques for online platforms.

What are the differences between clinical psychologists and clinical mental health counselors?

Clinical psychologists and clinical mental health counselors deliver essential mental health services, yet their roles are distinguished by variations in education, licensure, and clinical approach. Clinical psychologists typically complete doctoral training—with an emphasis on in-depth research, diagnostic assessments, and therapeutic interventions—while clinical mental health counselors often pursue master’s level programs that concentrate on counseling techniques and client-centered therapy. These educational pathways influence not only the scope of practice but also the methods used in patient evaluation and treatment planning. For additional insights on these distinctions, please review clinical mental health counselor vs clinical psychologist key differences.

Is a psychology degree worth it?

Deciding whether to pursue a psychology degree is a significant choice, especially in a state like Nevada where mental health care access is a pressing issue. For aspiring psychologists, understanding the potential return on investment (ROI) of their education is essential.

Meeting a Growing Demand

Nevada’s designation as a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) for mental health highlights an urgent need for qualified psychologists. This high demand means psychology graduates are likely to find abundant job opportunities, particularly in underserved rural and urban areas. The state's efforts to improve its mental health infrastructure, such as loan repayment programs for behavioral health providers, further incentivize entering the field.

Financial and Career Benefits

Psychology careers in Nevada, while varied in income, offer competitive salaries when factoring in location and specialization. For example, clinical psychologists in Reno earn above the national average for their role. Additionally, those with advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, are positioned to access higher-paying roles, including private practice or academia.

Personal Fulfillment

Pursuing a psychology degree not only offers financial rewards but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. As a licensed psychologist, you can help address Nevada’s significant mental health needs, improving the lives of individuals and communities.

For a more detailed analysis of the benefits of this career path, visit is a psychology degree worth it. This resource can provide insights into the long-term value of investing in your education.

Why Nevada is an Ideal State for Aspiring Psychologists

The state's recent legislative advancements, such as funding for telehealth and cultural competency training, make Nevada an increasingly supportive environment for mental health professionals. Additionally, joining the Nevada Psychological Association (NPA) can provide invaluable networking, mentorship, and continuing education opportunities for those pursuing a psychology degree.

Can social work credentials complement a psychology career in Nevada?

Integrating social work credentials can expand service offerings by addressing broader psychosocial factors that influence mental health outcomes. Licensed social workers bring specialized training in community outreach, case management, and crisis intervention, which can supplement psychological practice by fostering holistic care models. Professionals seeking to diversify their approach may benefit from exploring additional educational pathways to develop expertise in areas such as resource coordination and client advocacy. For guidance on prerequisites and educational requirements, review What degree do you need to be a social worker in Nevada?. This multidisciplinary strategy can enhance overall patient care and strengthen the accessibility of mental health services across Nevada.

Are there other licensure options for therapists in Nevada?

Besides the traditional psychology license, Nevada offers other licensure options for therapists, such as the MFT license in Nevada. This license allows professionals to work as marriage and family therapists, providing counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. Having an MFT license can expand career opportunities and provide a unique specialization in the field of psychology.

How can I become a criminal psychologist in Nevada?

Pursuing a specialization in criminal psychology involves targeted training that emphasizes forensic assessment, legal procedures, and ethical considerations unique to the field. Prospective criminal psychologists should focus on coursework that integrates psychological theory with criminal justice principles, including forensic evaluation and evidence interpretation. Specialized training in these areas prepares practitioners to support legal proceedings, assist in offender profiling, and contribute to criminal investigations. Maintaining compliance with Nevada’s licensure requirements while gaining field-specific experience is crucial for success. For more detailed guidance on the necessary educational and certification pathways, please review how to become a criminal psychologist in Nevada.

What career opportunities are available to psychologists in Nevada?

Nevada offers a wide range of career opportunities for licensed psychologists, particularly given its growing healthcare, education, and business sectors. Clinical psychologists, for example, are in high demand across hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practices. These professionals typically provide counseling, psychological testing, and treatment for various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Many psychologists in Nevada also work in rehabilitation centers, helping individuals recover from brain injuries or substance abuse disorders.

In addition to clinical roles, psychologists in Nevada are increasingly sought after in organizational psychology, where they contribute to improving workplace productivity, employee well-being, and company culture. With Nevada's rapidly expanding economy and diverse industries—such as hospitality, technology, and gaming—organizational psychologists have significant opportunities to apply their expertise in corporate environments, helping businesses optimize their workforce. Furthermore, psychologists with an interest in research may find fulfilling careers in universities or private research institutions, studying topics ranging from cognitive development to social behavior.

For those interested in more specialized roles, Nevada’s growing focus on mental health services in underserved communities creates demand for school psychologists and health psychologists. School psychologists work within educational settings to support students with learning disabilities or emotional challenges, while health psychologists focus on patient behavior in medical settings, promoting healthy lifestyle changes and chronic disease management.

For psychologists looking to expand their skill set and career opportunities, pursuing an affordable online master's in organizational psychology could open new doors in business settings. An advanced degree in this field allows psychologists to move beyond clinical work, leveraging their expertise to influence company policies, enhance team dynamics, and develop training programs that boost employee satisfaction and performance.

How can I become a BCBA in Nevada?

For professionals seeking to broaden their therapeutic expertise, obtaining a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential offers a strategic advantage. This certification process requires meeting rigorous academic standards, accruing supervised practical experience, and successfully passing the BCBA examination. In Nevada, candidates must ensure their coursework and training align with established accrediting bodies’ guidelines for behavior analysis. Adopting this credential not only diversifies service offerings but also enhances clinical credibility in delivering targeted behavioral interventions. For further detailed requirements and step-by-step guidance, please review how to become a BCBA in Nevada.

How can I become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Nevada?

Meeting the LPC requirements in Nevada involves completing a master’s program in counseling that is recognized by the state, accumulating a set number of supervised clinical hours, and passing the requisite national examinations. This pathway emphasizes therapeutic techniques, client-centered interventions, and adherence to strict ethical standards, distinguishing it from psychology licensure. For a comprehensive overview of the steps and detailed requirements, please review how to become an LPC in Nevada.

How can I become a school psychologist in Nevada?

School psychologists collaborate closely with educators and families to support students' academic and emotional development. This role requires completion of a specialized graduate program in school psychology that emphasizes student assessment, intervention techniques, and consultation practices tailored for K–12 environments. In addition to rigorous academic training, candidates must fulfill a designated period of supervised field experience in educational settings, ensuring practical competence in addressing diverse student needs. Prospective school psychologists should also prepare to meet state-specific examination requirements and obtain any additional certifications mandated by local education boards. For comprehensive guidance on the process, please review how to become a school psychologist in Nevada.

What are the salary expectations for licensed psychologists in Nevada?

Licensed psychologists in Nevada experience a broad range of compensation that is influenced by factors including work setting, years of experience, and professional specialization. Clinical roles in high-demand urban areas tend to offer competitive salaries, while positions within academic and research institutions may feature different benefit packages and growth opportunities. Variations in salary also reflect the increasing emphasis on addressing the state’s mental health shortages and the incentives provided for working in underserved communities. Professionals are encouraged to review local market trends, consider additional financial incentives such as state-sponsored loan repayment programs, and explore targeted career pathways—such as the shortest path to become a counselor in Nevada—to enhance their long-term earning potential and professional development.

Transform the Field of Psychology with a Nevada Psychology License

In this guide, our team discussed how to obtain a Nevada psychology license by enumerating the licensure application steps. We also provided information on the psychology landscape in the state and suggested a list of the best psychology schools in Nevada to help you make more informed decisions.

Although the state’s psychology landscape is not perfect, Nevada is on a journey toward a more robust mental health care system, and even small steps forward are steps in the right direction. As you continue to contemplate the best education, keep in mind that joining this field will help bridge the gap in attaining accessible care. It will be your duty and responsibility to help Nevadans lead healthier lives, and you will soon play a transformative role in advancing the industry of psychology in the Silver State.

Key Insights

• High Demand for Mental Health Professionals: Nevada faces a significant shortage of mental health professionals, with over 2.4 million residents living in areas lacking adequate mental health services. This shortage underscores the critical need for more licensed psychologists in the state.
• Employment Growth: The employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in Nevada is projected to increase by 7% from 2020 to 2030, offering promising job opportunities for aspiring psychologists.
• Educational Requirements: To become a licensed psychologist in Nevada, candidates must obtain a doctoral degree from an APA-accredited institution, complete 2,000 hours of pre-doctoral training, and 1,750 hours of post-doctoral experience.
• Legislative Support: Recent legislative efforts in Nevada aim to improve mental health services, including continued telehealth services, cultural competency training, loan repayment programs for behavioral health providers, and the establishment of a Behavioral Health Workforce Development Center.
• Income Variability: Salaries for psychologists in Nevada vary significantly based on specialization and location. Clinical and counseling psychologists earn an average of $96,600, while school psychologists earn $79,550. Psychology professors in Reno can earn up to $118,370 annually.
• Supportive Professional Community: The Nevada Psychological Association (NPA) provides valuable resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for psychology professionals and students, helping to advance the profession within the state.

FAQ

1. What are the main educational requirements for becoming a licensed psychologist in Nevada? To become a licensed psychologist in Nevada, you need to obtain a doctoral degree from an institution accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA). Additionally, you must complete 2,000 hours of pre-doctoral training and 1,750 hours of post-doctoral experience.
2. How does the job outlook for psychologists in Nevada look? The employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in Nevada is projected to grow by 7% from 2020 to 2030, indicating a positive job outlook for aspiring psychologists in the state.
3. What factors contribute to the high demand for mental health professionals in Nevada? Nevada has a significant shortage of mental health professionals, with over 2.4 million residents living in areas that lack adequate mental health services. This shortage, combined with the state's efforts to improve mental health care, drives the high demand for licensed psychologists.
4. What is the process for obtaining a psychology license in Nevada? The process includes obtaining a bachelor's degree, pursuing an accredited doctoral degree in psychology, completing the required internship and post-doctoral training hours, applying for licensure through the Nevada Board of Psychology, and passing both the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Nevada Psychological State Exam.
5. How does location affect the salaries of psychologists in Nevada? Salaries for psychologists in Nevada vary based on location and specialization. For example, clinical and counseling psychologists in Reno earn an average of $78,170, while school psychologists in nonmetropolitan areas earn more than their counterparts in Las Vegas, with annual salaries of $83,310 compared to $68,580.
6. What recent legislative efforts have been made to improve mental health services in Nevada? Recent legislative efforts in Nevada include continuing telehealth services (SB 119), enhancing cultural competency training (AB 267), funding loan repayments for behavioral health providers (AB 45), and establishing the Behavioral Health Workforce Development Center (AB 37) to improve mental health education and outreach.
7. What are some top psychology programs in Nevada for 2024? Some top psychology programs in Nevada include those offered by the University of Nevada, Reno, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada State University, College of Southern Nevada, and Truckee Meadows Community College. These institutions provide various undergraduate and graduate programs to help students pursue careers in psychology.
8. How does the Nevada Psychological Association support psychology professionals and students? The Nevada Psychological Association (NPA) offers resources, networking opportunities, approved continuing education courses, internships, mentorship programs, and advocacy for the welfare of psychology professionals and students in the state.

References:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2021, February). Mental health in Nevada. State Facts. https://www.nami.org/NAMI/media/NAMI-Media/StateFactSheets/NevadaStateFactSheet.pdf
• O*NET OnLine. (n.d.-a). Nevada employment trends Clinical and counseling psychologists. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/19-3033.00?st=NV
• O*NET OnLine. (n.d.-b). Nevada employment trends Psychology teachers, postsecondary. Retrieved September 21, 2023, from https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/25-1066.00?st=NV
• Reinert, M., Fritze, D. & Nguyen, T. (2022, October). The state of mental health in America 2023. Mental Health America. https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 state occupational employment and wage estimates Nevada. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nv.htm