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

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Psychology is a vital field in New Hampshire, and psychologists play an important role in helping people to live healthy and productive lives. In fact, there are currently 650 psychologists in the state (US BLS, 2023). They offer therapy and counseling to address issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, helping people manage their mental health and improve their overall quality of life.

The state has a number of colleges and universities that offer psychology programs for those aspiring to obtain a New Hampshire psychology license. Through these programs, students can learn about the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes and prepare for careers in research, clinical practice, or other areas of psychology.

In this guide, our team at Research.com prepared a comprehensive list of psychology schools in New for those who plan on applying for their New Hampshire psychology license. The schools were ranked based on the available specializations, accreditation status, and program affordability, among other factors.

New Hampshire Psychology License Table of Contents

Overview of the Psychology Industry in New Hampshire
Educational Requirements for New Hampshire Psychology License
New Hampshire Psychology License Application and Renewal Process
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Psychology Students in New Hampshire
What Other Licenses Are Available for Mental Health Professionals in New Hampshire?
What specialized career paths can enhance your practice in New Hampshire?
How can specialized certifications diversify your psychology career in New Hampshire?
How can pursuing BCBA certification complement my psychology practice in New Hampshire?
Can specializing in forensic psychology enhance my New Hampshire practice?
Is the New Hampshire Job Market Favorable for Licensed Psychologists?
Can interdisciplinary qualifications boost my psychology practice in New Hampshire?
How can I effectively prepare for my licensure exams in New Hampshire?
Is criminal psychology a viable specialization in New Hampshire?
How does continuing education impact psychologists in New Hampshire?
List of Top Psychology Programs in New Hampshire for 2025
Can accelerated programs help me become a psychologist in New Hampshire faster?
Online Graduate Programs for Aspiring Psychologists
How can I leverage my psychology background to become a counselor in New Hampshire faster?

Overview of the Psychology Industry in New Hampshire

As of 2021, 221,000 adults in New Hampshire are diagnosed with a mental health condition (NAMI, 2021). This has driven the demand for professionals with a New Hampshire psychology license. Unfortunately, there is a lack of professionals qualified for counseling careers in New Hampshire. Recent data shows that of the 70,000 adults in the state who needed mental health care, 41.7% were unable to receive it because of the cost of treatment (NAMI, 2021). Furthermore, the state was also noted to have only 51.1% of its mental health needs met, making it one of the Mental Health Care Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) in the country (KFF, 2022).

To remedy the problem, local organizations such as the New Hampshire Psychological Association try to find ways to support aspiring psychologists in the state. In many cases, the association helps them by providing networking opportunities and sponsoring continuing education for its members, including psychology certificate programs online.

Beyond treating patients, psychologists in the state work to develop new treatments for mental health conditions and to promote public awareness of mental health issues. Their research findings and expertise can inform public health initiatives, government policies, and community programs aimed at improving mental health services. Considering the scope of their responsibilities, psychologists in the state can expect to earn above-average compensation. The latest data reveals that the current annual salary of professionals in this industry is $79,270 (US BLS, 2023).

Educational Requirements for New Hampshire Psychology License

The educational requirements for a New Hampshire psychology license are as follows:

A doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program; it could be in any specialization, like forensic psychology.
At least two years (3,000 hours) of supervised professional experience, including 1,500 hours of pre-doctoral experience and 1,500 hours of postdoctoral experience (NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, n.d.).

The doctoral degree program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA). If the doctoral degree program is not accredited by one of these organizations, it must meet certain standards set by the New Hampshire Board of Examiners of Psychologists. This means if you are considering a masters psychology online, you should carefully consider its accreditation status if you intend on becoming a licensed professional.

The supervised professional experience must be completed under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. Meanwhile, the internship must be completed before the postdoctoral experience. In addition to the educational requirements, applicants for a New Hampshire psychology license must also pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and complete an essay exam.

According to the New Hampshire licensing board, the doctoral degree program must include at least 36 quarter hours or 24 semester hours of coursework in the following areas:

Biological and chemical bases of behavior
Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
Social bases of behavior
Individual differences

Type of Experience

Number of Hours

Pre-doctoral degree

1,500

Post-doctoral degree

1,500

New Hampshire Psychology License Application and Renewal Process

Obtaining and maintaining a psychology license in New Hampshire involves a thorough application and renewal process to ensure that psychologists meet the necessary qualifications and standards to provide mental health services in the state. Here are the key steps involved in both applying for the NH licensure for psychologists and renewing an existing one:

Initial License Application

Completion of Application: To begin the process, applicants must complete the comprehensive license application form provided by the New Hampshire Board of Psychology. All sections of the application form must be diligently filled out, and it should be signed and dated by the applicant.
Photo Submission: Applicants are required to include a glossy passport-sized photograph measuring 2" x 2" with a plain background.
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of $316.00 must be submitted along with the application. Payment should be made via a check or money order and is payable to the “Treasurer, State of New Hampshire."
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Applicants should provide a current CV or resume highlighting their academic and professional background.
Summary of Supervised Clinical Experience: Applicants are required to summarize their internship and post-doctoral experience. This summary should indicate a minimum of 1,500 hours of pre-doctoral experience and 1,500 hours of post-doctoral experience. If there were multiple supervisors at the same site, each supervisor should be listed along with the total hours of experience. Additional sheets can be used if necessary, and a clear distinction between pre-doctoral and post-doctoral experience should be maintained.
Graduate Program Course Sheet: You will need to list down and categorize the different programs you took during graduate school, as well as note the number of hours each program is worth.
Written Response to Essay Questions: Applicants must respond to essay questions that are outlined by the Board of Psychology.
ASPPB/EPPP Score Report: Your official Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) score reports must be sent directly to the Board by The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
Internship Confirmation: Applicants should have their internship training director or primary supervisor complete the internship experience form. This form should list all supervisors and include the total number of clinical and supervision hours.
Completed Graduate Program Course Sheet: Only one form is required for this section.
Supervisor’s Confirmation of Clinical Experience: This pertains to the internship experience. The supervisor should describe the internship experience and the intern’s clinical work. If there are multiple supervisors, the primary supervisor can provide this information.
Supervisor’s Confirmation of Post-Doc Experience: For post-doctoral experience, the supervisor should describe the post-doc experience and clinical work. Again, if there are multiple supervisors, the primary supervisor can complete this section.
Verification of License from Another Jurisdiction: If applicable, applicants should provide verification of a license from another jurisdiction.
Professional References: Include three professional references to inform the board of your character and the credibility of your claims.
Transcripts: Submit official transcripts for both undergraduate and graduate degrees, including the dates of degree awards. These transcripts should be in sealed envelopes from the respective schools.
Criminal Background Check: Complete a criminal background check through Livescan or inked fingerprinting. This can be done at a qualified law enforcement agency or an authorized employee of the Department of Safety. If it is not possible to contact a supervisor or training director, have verification completed by the psychologist currently holding that position.

License Renewal Process

If you already hold a New Hampshire license, you will receive an email renewal notification 60 days before your license expires and another notification within 15 days prior to expiration. The state’s renewal process is usually done entirely online. Licensed school psychologists typically pay a renewal fee of $183, while psychologists need to pay a renewal fee of $328 (NH Office of Professional Licensure and Certification, n.d.).

Profession

Application Fee

Renewal Fee

School Psychologist

$183

Psychologist

$328

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Psychology Students in New Hampshire

Pursuing a degree in psychology can represent a significant financial investment, but numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to assist students in reducing educational costs. New Hampshire-based psychology students can benefit from both state and national financial aid programs, grants, and scholarships specifically tailored to support those entering the mental health field.

One notable option is the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, which offers a variety of scholarships to local students pursuing higher education. Psychology students demonstrating financial need may qualify for these awards to help offset the cost of tuition. Additionally, many universities in New Hampshire provide institution-specific scholarships, such as merit-based awards or funding for students enrolled in graduate psychology programs.

Federal financial aid options, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), enable students to access loans, grants, and work-study opportunities. Those intending to specialize in underserved areas may also qualify for loan forgiveness programs like the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) Loan Repayment Program, which incentivizes professionals to serve in high-need regions.

Furthermore, aspiring psychologists should consider schools that align with their educational and financial needs. Exploring the best colleges for psychology in New Hampshire can help identify institutions that offer competitive programs and comprehensive financial aid packages. This approach ensures students receive a quality education while managing their financial responsibilities effectively.

What Other Licenses Are Available for Mental Health Professionals in New Hampshire?

In addition to a psychology license, there are other licenses available for mental health professionals in New Hampshire, such as the mft license in New Hampshire. These licenses can provide opportunities for professionals to specialize in specific areas of mental health and work with diverse populations. Understanding the various licensing options can help individuals choose the best career path for their interests and skills.

What specialized career paths can enhance your practice in New Hampshire?

Licensed psychologists can extend their service scope by pursuing targeted certifications that lead to specialized roles. Practitioners may consider focusing on areas such as forensic psychology, neuropsychology, or geriatric mental health, each of which offers distinct opportunities for leadership and research. Additionally, obtaining advanced training can facilitate entry into interdisciplinary roles that address specific community needs. For instance, acquiring certification in addiction services can complement your licensure and meet local demands in behavioral health. Explore how to become a substance abuse counselor in New Hampshire as an example of a pathway that diversifies professional expertise while enhancing career opportunities.

How can specialized certifications diversify your psychology career in New Hampshire?

Specialized certifications offer a strategic avenue for psychologists looking to expand their expertise beyond traditional licensure. By pursuing targeted credentials, professionals can enhance their clinical competencies and qualify for interdisciplinary roles within legal, research, and advanced clinical settings. For instance, supplementing your practice with an online forensic psychology degree can open opportunities in criminal justice consultation and investigation, meeting emerging demands in forensic and investigative psychology. Such certifications are designed to refine skill sets, promote a competitive edge in specialized markets, and foster partnerships with agencies that value precision and advanced analytical abilities.

How can pursuing BCBA certification complement my psychology practice in New Hampshire?

For psychologists in New Hampshire, integrating BCBA certification into your practice can expand your scope of services and enhance client outcomes. By gaining expertise in applied behavior analysis, professionals can address developmental and behavioral challenges with evidence-based interventions, thereby opening additional career opportunities in clinical, educational, and community settings. This targeted credential can complement your existing psychology licensure, providing a competitive edge and broadening your service offerings without overlapping core competencies. For further guidance on expanding your credentials, explore how to become a BCBA in New Hampshire.

Can specializing in forensic psychology enhance my New Hampshire practice?

Emerging trends indicate that targeted training in forensic psychology can significantly broaden a psychologist’s professional scope in New Hampshire. Integrating forensic expertise into clinical practice not only opens opportunities for collaboration with legal and law enforcement agencies but also positions professionals to address complex cases involving risk assessment and criminal behavior analysis. Evidence suggests that diversifying skill sets through specialized forensic training can lead to unique career pathways and partnerships. For further insights into market demand, review whether is forensic psychology in demand in today’s competitive landscape.

Is the New Hampshire Job Market Favorable for Licensed Psychologists?

Licensed psychologists in New Hampshire experience a competitive yet expanding employment landscape. Market analyses indicate growing demand for mental health services driven by statewide initiatives and policy advancements. Diverse opportunities span clinical practice, research, academic positions, and emerging roles in telepsychology and community-based programs. Employers tend to favor candidates with comprehensive training and specialized certifications, which can enhance career flexibility. For professionals considering additional credentials, review how to become an LPC in New Hampshire as a strategic complement to a traditional psychology license.

Can interdisciplinary qualifications boost my psychology practice in New Hampshire?

Integrating interdisciplinary training can enhance clinical effectiveness and broaden service offerings. Psychologists who pursue complementary fields, such as social work, gain additional insights into community dynamics and holistic well-being, enabling them to address complex patient needs with a multifaceted approach. This strategy can foster better collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and improve overall outcomes. For further guidance on complementary academic pathways, review What degree do you need to be a social worker in New Hampshire?.

How can I effectively prepare for my licensure exams in New Hampshire?

Candidates should consider structured study plans that incorporate advanced practice tests, focused review sessions, and official exam preparation courses to address core themes such as psychological theories, ethics, and clinical assessment. Utilizing study groups and seeking mentorship from licensed professionals can further refine knowledge and exam strategies. Additionally, exploring specialized preparation pathways, including programs that detail criteria for both clinical and school psychology roles—such as how to become a school psychologist in New Hampshire—can provide tailored guidance for exam readiness. Regularly reviewing updated exam content outlines and leveraging practice materials from accredited sources are also critical to achieving a successful outcome.

Is criminal psychology a viable specialization in New Hampshire?

For professionals seeking to diversify their practice, criminal psychology offers distinct opportunities in forensic investigation, corrections, and legal consultation. This specialization requires targeted training and adherence to specific regulatory standards while bridging core psychological competencies with criminal behavior analysis. Coursework, supervised internships, and specialized certifications are critical to developing the precise skills needed in legal and forensic settings. For an in‐depth guide on pathway requirements and opportunities, refer to how to become a criminal psychologist in New Hampshire.

How does continuing education impact psychologists in New Hampshire?

Ensures Current Knowledge: Continuing education helps psychology professionals stay updated on the latest research, treatment methods, and industry best practices, which is essential for providing high-quality care.
Meets Licensing Renewal Requirements: New Hampshire psychologists must complete specific continuing education credits to renew their licenses, ensuring ongoing competency in their field.
Promotes Ethical Standards: Courses in ethics and legal updates reinforce psychologists’ adherence to professional guidelines, safeguarding patient welfare.
Expands Career Opportunities: Specialized training in areas like trauma-informed care, addiction therapy, or multicultural counseling can enhance a psychologist’s skill set, making them more competitive in the job market.
Supports Community Health Initiatives: Knowledge gained from continuing education enables psychologists to contribute to public health programs and community wellness initiatives, addressing the state's mental health needs more effectively.

This section emphasizes the importance of ongoing learning for maintaining a psychology license and supporting professional growth.

List of Top Psychology Programs in New Hampshire for 2025

Not all academic programs are made equal. So, to help you choose a program that suits your long-term goals, we have analyzed the latest reliable public data to provide rankings of institutions with psychology programs for 2024, specifically for those interested in obtaining a New Hampshire psychology license. Our team of experts evaluated various metrics, including academic ratings, enrollment rate, affordability, and other relevant factors, to create rankings.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program that equips students with a strong understanding of psychological concepts, human behavior, and research methods. SNHU emphasizes a supportive community, affordability, accessible faculty, and extensive networking opportunities for internships and careers. The university provides an affordable private, nonprofit education in New Hampshire and offers a diverse range of courses, including a general education program called “The Commons," which fosters critical thinking, ethical problem-solving, and leadership skills. The program will be conducted on the university’s Manchester campus, where there are 50 student clubs to enhance your campus experience.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Child and Adolescent DevelopmentForensic PsychologyMental Health
Child and Adolescent Development
Forensic Psychology
Mental Health
Cost per credit: $515
Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. University of New Hampshire

University of New Hampshire offers a Ph.D. program in Psychology designed to prepare students for careers as behavioral scientists. This program, which typically takes four to five years to complete, emphasizes developing a broad knowledge of psychology, effective teaching and communication skills, and the ability to conduct research in a specialized area. The program includes courses such as Research Methodology and Statistics, a Graduate Pro-seminar, and advanced graduate seminars to provide students with a strong foundation in research and teaching. Students are required to conduct original research, leading to either a master’s thesis or a publishable paper, typically completed by the end of the second year. Advancement to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree involves earning a master’s degree, passing a specialist examination, and identifying a research topic, usually achieved by the end of the fourth year, with most students completing the Ph.D. in the fifth year.

Program Length: At least five years
Tracks/concentrations: Brain, Behavior, And CognitionDevelopmental PsychologySocial Psychology/Personality
Brain, Behavior, And Cognition
Developmental Psychology
Social Psychology/Personality
Cost per credit: $785 (in-state), $1,370 (out-of-state)
Required credits to graduate: 36 credits
Accreditation: NECHE

3. Plymouth State University

Plymouth State University offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Psychology that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the mind, brain, and behavior. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with professors in on-campus research laboratories, working on projects related to emotion and relationships, learning, or psychophysiology. The program aims to equip students with advanced data interpretation skills, research techniques, critical evaluation abilities, and interpersonal awareness

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Developmental PsychologyMental Health
Developmental Psychology
Mental Health
Cost per year: $26,662 (in-state), $37,602 (out-of-state)
Required credits to graduate: 120 credits
Accreditation: NECHE

4. Rivier University

Rivier University offers a unique Psy.D. program in Counseling and School Psychology, accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), designed to integrate the practice areas of counseling and school psychology. The program typically takes a minimum of 5 years to complete, including a three-year academic residency and a 2000-hour internship. It follows a practitioner-scholar model, emphasizing clinical skills, research, assessment, and consultation. The program is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to recruit and retain a diverse student group.

Program Length: At least five years
Tracks/concentrations: Advanced Multicultural PerspectivesNeuropsychological AssessmentAddictive Behaviors
Advanced Multicultural Perspectives
Neuropsychological Assessment
Addictive Behaviors
Cost per credit: $1,275
Required credits to graduate: 60 to 130 credits
Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)

5. Antioch University New England Campus

Antioch University offers a Psy.D. program in Clinical Psychology that includes coursework and a year-long internship. It emphasizes a social vision of clinical psychology committed to diversity and social justice, offering training in therapy, assessment, supervision, management, applied research, and more. The program encourages applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and provides opportunities for clinical practice through its Psychological Services Center and commitment to social justice through the Center for Diversity and Social Justice.

Program Length: Five years
Tracks/concentrations: Health Service Delivery SystemsPsychotherapeutic InterventionPublic Policy and Advocacy
Health Service Delivery Systems
Psychotherapeutic Intervention
Public Policy and Advocacy
Cost per semester: $17,481 (first year)
Required credits to graduate: 120 to 128 credits
Accreditation: APA

Can accelerated programs help me become a psychologist in New Hampshire faster?

While a traditional doctoral degree in psychology typically takes four to six years to complete, there are accelerated programs that can help you earn your degree in less time. These programs are designed for working adults and professionals who want to earn their degree faster without sacrificing quality. Accelerated programs often use a variety of teaching methods, such as online courses and intensive on-campus sessions, to help students complete their coursework more quickly. If you're interested in learning more about accelerated psychology programs, visit our guide to the best accelerated psychology programs.

Online Graduate Programs for Aspiring Psychologists

For aspiring psychologists in New Hampshire, online graduate programs offer an excellent opportunity to balance advanced education with professional or personal commitments. These programs provide the same rigorous training as traditional on-campus options while offering the flexibility to study from anywhere.

One standout option is an online MA in clinical psychology. This program equips students with foundational skills in counseling, psychological assessment, and evidence-based intervention strategies. Designed to meet licensure requirements in many states, it’s a valuable step toward a fulfilling career in clinical or counseling psychology.

Online programs often include features such as virtual practicums, interactive course modules, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience. These features are especially appealing to working professionals and those living in rural areas of New Hampshire who might face logistical challenges with on-campus attendance.

By choosing an accredited online psychology program, aspiring psychologists can efficiently pursue their career goals while maintaining the flexibility they need to thrive.

How can I leverage my psychology background to become a counselor in New Hampshire faster?

For professionals seeking to expand beyond traditional psychological practice, transitioning into counseling can accelerate career development. Targeted certification programs and specialized clinical training help streamline this pathway. Exploring the shortest path to become a counselor in New Hampshire offers detailed guidance on efficiently integrating counseling credentials with an existing psychology background.

Get Your New Hampshire Psychology License

Obtaining a psychology license in New Hampshire is a well-defined process that requires dedication, education, and a commitment to ethical and professional practice. Prospective psychologists should ensure they meet the educational and internship requirements set by the NH licensing board for psychologists, prepare for the national and state exams, and complete the necessary paperwork meticulously. If you are wondering, “what job can I get with a psychology degree“, there are many fields to choose from. For instance, you can explore careers in counseling, therapy, and psychology positions in sports, organizations, and social work.

Once licensed, psychologists in New Hampshire have a wealth of opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities through their expertise in clinical and counseling psychology. It is a rewarding journey that opens doors to a fulfilling career in the field of psychology.

Key Insights

Demand for Psychologists: New Hampshire has a significant need for licensed psychologists, driven by a high prevalence of mental health conditions among its residents.
Educational Pathways: Aspiring psychologists must complete a doctoral degree in psychology, supervised professional experience, and pass the EPPP exam.
Licensure Process: The application process for a psychology license in New Hampshire is comprehensive, requiring a detailed application, supervised experience, and various supporting documents.
Renewal Requirements: Licensed psychologists in New Hampshire must renew their licenses online, paying specific fees based on their professional designation.
Program Options: Several universities in New Hampshire offer accredited psychology programs, each with unique specializations and tracks.
Economic Aspects: The cost of obtaining a psychology degree and maintaining a license varies, but the profession offers above-average salaries.
Professional Support: Organizations like the New Hampshire Psychological Association provide resources and support for professional development and continuing education.

FAQ

1. What are the basic educational requirements to become a licensed psychologist in New Hampshire?

To become a licensed psychologist in New Hampshire, you need a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program. The program must be accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), or meet specific standards set by the New Hampshire Board of Examiners of Psychologists.

2. How many hours of supervised professional experience are required for licensure?

You must complete 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience, including 1,500 hours of pre-doctoral experience and 1,500 hours of post-doctoral experience.

3. What exams must be passed to obtain a psychology license in New Hampshire?

Applicants must pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and complete an essay exam as part of the licensure process.

4. What is the application fee for a psychology license in New Hampshire?

The application fee for a psychology license in New Hampshire is $316.00, which is non-refundable and payable to the “Treasurer, State of New Hampshire.”

5. How often do psychologists need to renew their licenses in New Hampshire, and what is the renewal fee?

Psychologists in New Hampshire must renew their licenses periodically. The renewal fee is $328 for psychologists and $183 for school psychologists. Notifications for renewal are sent 60 days and 15 days before the license expiration.

6. What are some top psychology programs in New Hampshire for 2024?

Some of the top psychology programs in New Hampshire for 2024 include Southern New Hampshire University, University of New Hampshire, Plymouth State University, Rivier University, and Antioch University New England Campus.

7. Are there any organizations in New Hampshire that support aspiring psychologists?

Yes, the New Hampshire Psychological Association supports aspiring psychologists by offering networking opportunities and sponsoring continuing education, including online psychology certificate programs.

8. What types of careers can one pursue with a psychology degree in New Hampshire?

With a psychology degree in New Hampshire, you can pursue careers in clinical practice, counseling, research, school psychology, organizational psychology, sports psychology, and social work, among other fields.