Best Psychology Schools in Washington – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

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Washington has one of the highest percentages of adults with a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder. Specifically, 22% or more than one in five adults in the state has a diagnosable mental illness, higher than the overall 19% nationwide. The problem doesn’t pertain to adults alone. Washington is also one of the top 10 states with the highest prevalence of severe depressive episodes and substance use disorders among children. For this reason, Gov. Jay Inslee declared a youth mental health crisis in the state (Counseling Washington, 2021).

These figures mean that mental health professionals, including psychiatrists and psychologists, are needed in Washington. But how to become a psychologist in Washington? If you wish to practice as a psychologist in the state and help address the shortage of mental health workers, this in-depth guide is for you. Our team of experts at Research.com compiled relevant data that will help you get started on your psychology education and future career. We have also come up with a list of the best psychology schools in Washington state that will educate you about how to achieve the goals of psychology.

Best Psychology Schools in Washington Table of Contents

Is Washington a good place to be a psychologist?
What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Washington
Psychology Program Length in Washington
Tuition and Costs of Attending Psychology Schools in Washington
What to Look For in a Psychology Program in Washington
Psychology Schools in Washington Offering the Best Psychology Programs
What are the emerging opportunities in forensic and criminal psychology in Washington?
What are the school psychologist requirements in Washington?
Are online psychology programs a cost-effective pathway in Washington?
How Can Psychologists Transition into Behavior Analysis Specializations?
How can specialized certifications enhance a psychologist’s career in Washington?
How can psychology professionals integrate substance abuse counseling into their practice in Washington?
Can forensic science training enhance your psychology career in Washington?
How do Washington psychology programs prepare students for telepsychology and virtual care?
What is the fastest way to become a counselor in Washington?
How Can Adding Mental Health Counseling Credentials Enhance Your Psychology Career in Washington?
How can psychology graduates in Washington contribute to addressing mental health challenges?
What are the essential Washington psychology license requirements for career success?

Is Washington a good place to be a psychologist?

Being a psychologist is a good career choice in Washington for several reasons.

For one, the psychology career outlook in Washington indicates a high demand for psychologists, along with other mental health professionals.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Washington had one mental/behavioral health professional for every 360 people, resulting in 35 of the 39 counties being federally designated as Mental Health Professional Shortage Areas. With the pandemic, mental health conditions have worsened such that Washington saw more than 32% of adults reporting symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorder earlier in 2023 and a significant spike in drug overdose deaths from 2019 to 2021 (KFF, 2023). This highlights the state’s shortage of mental health workers.

The employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists in the state is projected to grow 19% from 2020 to 2030 (O*NET OnLine, 2022). This is higher than the overall projected employment growth of 10% for clinical and counseling psychologists in the United States from 2021 to 2031.

Getting degrees from psychology schools in Washington and obtaining your license from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) can land you a great-paying job. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Washington earn a mean annual salary of $105,950 (BLS,2023). Meanwhile, school psychologists earn an average of $99,410; other types of psychologists earn an average of $105,640 annually. If you are a forensic, health, or sports psychologist, you belong to the “other psychologists" category.

These salary figures are higher compared to the national average mean wages for these professions. This can be expected since Washington has a high cost of living. The per capita personal consumption expenditures (PCE) in the Evergreen State in 2021 was $51,751, which is higher compared to the national per capita PCE of $47,915.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Washington?

Professional psychology licensure in Washington is issued by the DOH. To be granted a license, you need to earn a doctoral degree in psychology, complete the required number of hours of supervised experience, submit a licensure application, and pass state and national exams.

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree and an optional master’s degree in psychology. Complete a bachelor’s degree, but you do not have to major in psychology for this. Non-psychology majors must, however, take prerequisite courses before entering one of the psychology graduate programs in Washington.

After completing a bachelor’s degree, you have the option to pursue a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree. That’s because most students earn their master’s degrees during their doctoral programs.

2. Earn a doctoral degree in psychology. After earning your bachelor’s degree (and MA/MS), you will need to complete a doctoral degree in psychology from any of the accredited psychology schools in Washington. Prospective psychologists can pursue either a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) or a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Psychology.

In Washington, you need to attend a regionally accredited 40-credit doctoral program that meets specific educational requirements set forth by the state. These requirements include at least 300 hours of practicum and at least 1,500 hours of internship. An optional 1,500 hours of the 3,300 hours of supervised experience may be completed after the practicum and before the internship.

3. Complete postdoctoral supervised experience. You need to complete at least 3,300 hours of supervised experience to be eligible for a psychologist’s license in Washington. At least 300 of these hours must be completed during your PsyD or Ph.D. practicum and 1,500 hours during your internship. You may complete the rest of the required hours of experience during an optional pre-internship during the doctoral program and through postdoctoral supervised experience.

4. Apply for a license and pass the psychology licensing exams.

After completing the required supervised experience, submit your application for a license to the DOH either online or by mail.

The DOH will review your application and give you the go signal to take the licensing examinations. There are two exams you need to pass. The first is the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), which is a 225-item multiple-choice national exam that will assess your knowledge of psychology across various domains. To pass the EPPP, you will need a scaled score of 500 or more.

The second exam is Washington’s jurisprudence exam (JP Exam), which you can take online. After passing the EPPP, you will get instructions from the DOH on completing the JP Exam. This 25-item, multiple-choice, open-book test will assess your knowledge of Washington regulations and laws related to the psychology practice. To pass this test, you will need a score of at least 90%.

After this is done, all you need to do is wait for the DOH to notify you that your license is ready.

License Renewal and Continuing Education (CE)

You need to renew your license every year on your birthday.

To keep your license active, you must complete 60 hours of continuing education credits every three years. At least four of these CE hours must be dedicated to ethics-related topics. Every six years, you have to complete at least six hours of CE on topics related to the assessment and treatment of suicide.

Becoming a School Psychologist

School psychologists are regulated by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. So if you want to become a school psychologist in Washington, you will need to comply with a different set of requirements.

You need to apply for an Educational Staff Associate (ESA) Certificate. To get a Residency First Issue Certificate, you need to earn a master’s degree in school psychology and complete a school psychologist preparation program approved by the state. You also need to pass the Praxis exam for school psychologists.

To be eligible for a Professional Certificate, you must hold a valid Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential, meet all the requirements for the Residency ESA First Issue Certificate, as well as complete an issue of abuse course and a suicide prevention training course.

What unique opportunities are available for psychologists in Washington?

Washington offers a variety of unique opportunities for psychologists, enriching their professional experience and career prospects. Here are some notable options:

Diverse Work Settings: Psychologists can work in various environments, including hospitals, schools, private practices, and community mental health centers, providing a wide range of experiences.
Specialized Areas: There is a growing need for psychologists specializing in areas such as addiction, trauma, and telepsychology, aligning with the state’s current mental health challenges.
Research Opportunities: Numerous universities and research institutions in Washington provide opportunities for psychologists to engage in research projects, contributing to advancements in the field.
Collaborative Networks: Washington boasts active professional organizations and networks, such as the Washington State Psychological Association, facilitating collaboration, mentorship, and support among professionals.
Policy Influence: Psychologists can engage in advocacy efforts, influencing mental health policy and access to care at both state and national levels.
Cultural Diversity: Working with diverse populations in urban centers like Seattle offers psychologists unique insights and experiences, enhancing their cultural competence and skills.

Psychology Program Length in Washington

Becoming a licensed psychologist in Washington can take eight to 12 years. These include a typical four-year bachelor’s degree program and a doctoral degree program, which can take you four to seven years to complete, depending on the program’s requirements and the amount of research and clinical experience you need to obtain. After completing your education, you also need to meet other licensure requirements like supervised experience hours.

Tuition and Costs of Attending Psychology Schools in Washington

It’s hard to give an average estimate of the tuition and costs for psychology schools in Washington. It’s because they vary greatly, depending on the degree level, whether the school is public or private, and the student’s residency status. There is also a difference in costs between on-campus and online psychology degree programs in Washington.

To give you an idea, resident undergraduates at the University of Washington pay $12,643 annually while non-residents pay $41,997. Meanwhile, tuition for their doctoral programs is calculated separately per area of study. For example, those taking their Ph.D. with a major in clinical psychology pay $18,633 (resident) or $32,511 (nonresident).

At Washington State University, the estimated undergraduate tuition (excluding other fees) is $5,777 for residents and $13,815 for nonresidents, bringing the total cost of attendance for the current academic year to $33,876 and $49,952, respectively. Meanwhile, the total cost of attendance for graduate programs is $37,092 for resident students and $52,258 for nonresidents.

If you find the tuition and fees too steep for your budget, you can apply for financial aid or look into psychology scholarships in Washington.

What to Look For in a Psychology Program in Washington

Picking from among the many psychology schools in Washington can be daunting. So it is important that you look into several factors before you make a decision. These include:

Accreditation

You should consider only accredited psychology schools in Washington. The psychology program should be accredited by a reputable organization, such as the American Psychological Association (APA), to ensure that it has met rigorous standards of education.

Program Offering

Go only for schools and programs that meet psychology degree requirements in Washington. Make sure the curriculum covers a variety of psychology topics, including research methods and different areas of psychology.

Resources and Special Programs

Look for a school that offers student resources and services that would make academic life easier. These include laboratories, libraries, and mentorship and counseling services. Go for those with special research opportunities, internship programs, and study-abroad programs, too.

Psychology Schools in Washington Offering the Best Psychology Programs

Research.com has come up with a list of the top five psychology schools in Washington. Our psychology school rankings in Washington are based on metrics like accreditation, graduate and undergraduate program offerings, and recognition for academic excellence. Some of these schools offer the best clinical psychology degree program in the state or the best in other fields of psychology.

1. University of Washington

The University of Washington‘s Department of Psychology offers an undergraduate psychology major that serves as a broadly based introduction to human and animal behavior. This undergraduate program’s curriculum emphasizes theories in academic and popular literature, current research, and scientific and statistical reasoning skills. The UW provides undergraduate students opportunities for research participation, applied fieldwork, and supervised teaching.

UW also offers a Ph.D. in Psychology program, which is flexible and designed to prepare students for careers in research and scholarship. While many students earn a Master of Science in Psychology on the way to obtaining their Ph.D., UW does not admit students in its Ph.D. program whose goal is a terminal master’s degree. Students who are interested in a master’s-only degree can instead take advantage of the UW’s Master of Arts in Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology: Prevention & Treatment.

UW’s graduate program is mentor-based wherein students can train under the direct guidance of specific faculty members. The department is divided into seven general areas of study—adult clinical, child clinical, behavioral neuroscience, cognition and perception, developmental, social and personality, neural systems and behavior, animal behavior, and quantitative psychology—and students can apply to a specific area of study and not to the department as a whole. Students collaborate with their mentors in their area of study to determine the best coursework and training.

Location: Seattle, WA
Type: Public
Programs: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, PhD in Psychology
Accreditation: APA, Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS)
Tuition and Fees: Undergraduate: $12,643 (resident) | $41,997 (nonresident) Graduate (Doctoral): $18,633 (resident) | $32,511 (nonresident)

2. Washington State University Pullman

Washington State University Pullman‘s Department of Psychology offers an undergraduate program major in Psychology.

WSU also offers a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology program, which is accredited by the APA. This program is based on the scientist-practitioner model of training designed to integrate theory, clinical practice, and research. Students are involved in research activities every semester and are required to undergo a clinical practicum in their second year until the start of a 12-month internship.

Among psychology schools in Washington, the program aims to equip students with a broad knowledge of scientific psychology, the ability to provide evidence-based clinical services consistent with ethical and professional standards, including knowledge of and sensitivity to issues of diversity, and the capability to contribute to current knowledge in clinical psychology.

While WSU also offers its undergraduate psychology program online, it doesn’t have a clinical psychology online degree program.

Location: Pullman, WA
Type: Public
Programs: Bachelor’s, PhD
Accreditation: APA
Tuition and Fees: Undergraduate: $33,876 (resident) | $49,952 (nonresident) Graduate: $37,092 (resident) | $52,258 (nonresident)

3. Western Washington University

Western Washington University offers a BS Psychology program that provides students with a solid foundation in the general concepts and methods of psychology, along with courses and programs for students in many specialized areas of psychology.

The WWU Psychology Department offers three other programs: MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, MS in Experimental Psychology, and Master of Education (MEd) in School Counseling. The MS program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling involves a two-year full-time package of academic courses and supervised practica, with the option to complete a thesis. The MEd school counseling program, meanwhile, prepares professional counselors for a career in educational settings and is designed for those who intend to apply for the state educational staff associate certificate endorsed in school counseling at the elementary and secondary levels. Both programs are accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).

The Experimental Psychology program helps prepare students for a psychology Ph.D. program. The program is based on a mentorship model where each incoming student is paired with a faculty member with similar scholarly interests who will advise and mentor them in their academic progress and scholarly activities. Graduates will have a solid background in quantitative methods, research design, and expertise in a specific research area.

Location: Bellingham, WA
Type: Public
Programs: BS, MS, MEd
Accreditation: CACREP
Tuition and Fees: Undergraduate: $31,245 (resident) | $49,812 (nonresident) Graduate: $49,812 per credit hour

4. Gonzaga University

Gonzaga University’s Psychology Department offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with an optional research concentration. It also offers a minor in Psychology.

Among psychology schools in Washington, GU’s psychology program encourages students to critically examine human behavior and the science behind it. This is while they gain a deep understanding of the human experience and learn to connect that knowledge to life and to the complex issues of the modern world.

GU also has a Department of Counselor Education that offers a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling, and a Master of Arts in School Counseling. These are two-year programs that develop the students’ individualized theory or counseling and provide them with the professional training they need to serve their communities.

Location: Spokane, WA
Type: Private
Programs: BA, MA
Accreditation: CACREP
Tuition and Fees: Undergraduate: $26,270 Graduate: $1,115 semester per credit

5. Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers the following psychology programs:

BA in Psychology
MS in Experimental Psychology
MS Mental Health Counseling
Education Specialist (EdS) in School Psychology

CWU’s programs under its psychology department have a variety of concentrations for you to choose from, including clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, or social psychology, each with its unique focus and application.

The MS in Experimental Psychology program prepares students for research positions in certain industries and institutions as well as for doctoral programs. It provides students with intensive student-initiated research training in various areas of experimental psychology, statistical and methodological knowledge, an appreciation of the scientific basis of various fields of psychology, and one-on-one faculty mentoring of student research.

CWU’s School Psychology program provides excellent training to students who are planning a career as a school psychologist in public schools. This program was the first nationally approved program in the state of Washington.

Meanwhile, the university’s CACREP-accredited counselor-training program balances rigorous academic coursework with a three to four-part personalized clinical experience in their on-site training clinic. The program helps develop students’ counseling knowledge, skills, practice, dispositional qualities, and personal growth through individualized supervision, client data collection, evaluation, and reflexivity.

Location: Ellensburg, WA
Type: Public
Programs: BS, MA
Accreditation: CACREP
Tuition: Undergraduate: $7,021 (resident) | $25,075 (non-resident) Graduate: $1,898.48 per credit hour

What are the emerging opportunities in forensic and criminal psychology in Washington?

Washington’s evolving mental health landscape is fostering specialized career paths in forensic and criminal psychology. Professionals in these fields are increasingly called upon to provide psychological assessments in correctional settings, support legal proceedings, and help develop rehabilitation programs. This specialization requires advanced training that integrates psychological theory with the principles of criminal justice and ethical practice. Aspiring forensic psychologists often gain hands-on experience through internships with law enforcement agencies and partnerships with legal institutions, ensuring they are well-prepared to translate complex psychological insights into actionable strategies. For further details on the required academic and practical steps, explore how to become a criminal psychologist in Washington.

What are the school psychologist requirements in Washington?

In Washington, school psychologists must comply with a distinct set of credentialing standards that emphasize specialized training in educational and developmental settings. These standards include rigorous coursework, field-based practicum experiences tailored to K–12 environments, and state-specific assessments that affirm competency in addressing the unique challenges faced by school-aged children. Professionals in this area are expected to continuously update their expertise through focused continuing education and training programs. For comprehensive details on these criteria, review the school psychologist requirements in Washington.

Are online psychology programs a cost-effective pathway in Washington?

Many accredited institutions offer flexible online pathways that meet rigorous academic and clinical standards while addressing financial and scheduling constraints. These programs provide curriculum designed to align with Washington’s licensure requirements, ensuring that students receive comprehensive training even through a remote format. Evaluate factors such as accreditation, curriculum depth, and student support services to guarantee that your education meets professional standards. For instance, several cost-efficient options, including an online masters in psychology, offer competitive tuition rates and flexible scheduling without compromising quality.

How Can Psychologists Transition into Behavior Analysis Specializations?

Psychologists seeking to diversify their clinical expertise can explore advanced training in applied behavior analysis. This specialization focuses on evidence‐based behavior modification, systematic data analysis, and individualized intervention strategies that address a wide range of behavioral needs. Pursuing targeted coursework and certification programs can equip professionals with the practical skills necessary to design and implement behavioral interventions across various settings, enhancing both clinical outcomes and interdisciplinary collaboration. For detailed guidance on transitioning into this field, refer to how to become a BCBA in Washington.

How can specialized certifications enhance a psychologist’s career in Washington?

Pursuing specialized certifications can expand a psychologist’s clinical toolkit and provide access to emerging treatment modalities. In Washington’s evolving mental health landscape, integrating certifications into one’s practice supports interdisciplinary collaboration and opens doors to innovative intervention strategies. This additional qualification not only enhances clinical effectiveness but also increases professional competitiveness in settings that demand evidence-based behavioral interventions. For instance, acquiring credentials in applied behavior analysis can position professionals to address complex behavioral challenges across diverse populations. Explore further guidance on how to become a BCBA in california.

How can psychology professionals integrate substance abuse counseling into their practice in Washington?

In light of the pressing need to address substance use disorders across various age groups in Washington, psychology professionals can enhance their practice by integrating targeted substance abuse counseling strategies. By obtaining specialized training, engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration, and adopting evidence-based interventions, psychologists can effectively support individuals struggling with substance-related challenges. This integration broadens treatment capabilities and fosters a more holistic approach to mental health care. For detailed guidance on pursuing this specialized track, review How to become a substance abuse counselor in Washington?.

Can forensic science training enhance your psychology career in Washington?

Washington’s academic institutions are increasingly recognizing the value of an interdisciplinary approach that combines psychology with forensic science. This integration provides professionals with advanced investigative skills, a heightened understanding of legal procedures, and enhanced analytical capabilities—traits that are highly advantageous in clinical, research, and criminal justice environments. Incorporating specialized coursework and practical experiences related to forensic methodologies can not only diversify service offerings but also open pathways to collaborative roles in multi-agency teams. For an in-depth look at the academic pathway, explore degrees needed to work in forensic science in Washington.

How do Washington psychology programs prepare students for telepsychology and virtual care?

With the increasing demand for mental health services and the rapid adoption of telehealth technologies, psychology programs in Washington are integrating telepsychology training into their curricula. This ensures future psychologists are equipped to provide high-quality care in virtual settings, addressing accessibility challenges in rural and underserved areas.

Telepsychology-Specific Coursework

Many psychology programs in Washington include courses focused on telepsychology ethics, best practices, and the use of digital platforms. Students learn about confidentiality, informed consent, and maintaining therapeutic rapport in a virtual environment.

Practical Experience in Virtual Care

Graduate programs often provide students with opportunities to complete supervised telepsychology sessions as part of their clinical training. This hands-on experience is critical for understanding the nuances of delivering therapy online.

Emphasis on Accessibility

Telepsychology modules often address issues like digital literacy, internet accessibility, and cultural competency, ensuring psychologists can effectively serve diverse populations, including those in remote areas of Washington.

Research Opportunities

Students may participate in research exploring the efficacy of telepsychology interventions, contributing to the growing body of knowledge on virtual mental health care. Washington’s institutions often collaborate with tech companies and healthcare providers to study innovative telehealth solutions.

Integration with Technology

Programs in Washington ensure students are proficient in using telehealth platforms and related technologies, which are critical for seamless virtual therapy sessions. Training often includes managing technical issues and understanding platform-specific compliance with regulations like HIPAA.

For students interested in completing their education more quickly, exploring accelerated psychology programs online is an excellent option. These programs combine flexibility with rigorous training, often incorporating telepsychology elements to prepare students for the future of mental health care.

What is the fastest way to become a counselor in Washington?

For professionals eager to enter the mental health field without the extended timelines typically associated with doctoral programs, accelerated counseling pathways offer a strategic alternative. These programs condense essential coursework and clinical practica into an efficient timeframe while fulfilling state licensure requirements. Emphasizing evidence-based practices and ethical decision-making, accelerated curricula are designed to equip candidates with practical counseling skills and crisis intervention techniques without compromising educational quality. They also integrate flexible learning formats for working professionals seeking a swift career transition. For detailed insights into expedited pathways, please review the fastest way to become a counselor in Washington.

How Can Adding Mental Health Counseling Credentials Enhance Your Psychology Career in Washington?

Integrating counseling certification into your psychology practice can diversify your expertise and expand treatment options for diverse populations. Targeted training in mental health counseling equips professionals with client-centered methodologies, crisis intervention skills, and culturally responsive therapeutic strategies. This additional credential not only deepens clinical impact but also improves access to mental health services in communities facing acute challenges. For detailed guidance on this career path, review how to become a mental health counselor in Washington.

How can psychology graduates in Washington contribute to addressing mental health challenges?

Washington state faces diverse mental health challenges, from urban areas dealing with high stress levels and homelessness to rural regions with limited access to mental health services. Psychology graduates play a crucial role in bridging these gaps by applying their education in various settings. Here’s how:

Expanding Access in Rural Areas: Many parts of Washington lack adequate mental health professionals, making rural outreach a priority. Graduates can work with community organizations or health clinics to provide therapy and counseling services to underserved populations.
Supporting the Homeless Population: Urban areas in Washington face significant homelessness, often linked to mental health issues. Psychology graduates can engage in programs that address mental illness, substance abuse, and trauma recovery among this vulnerable population.
Promoting Virtual Care Solutions: With the rise of telepsychology, graduates are uniquely positioned to provide virtual therapy services, improving access for individuals in remote or underserved areas.
Specializing in Youth and Family Services: With increasing awareness of the importance of early mental health intervention, psychology graduates can work in schools, community centers, or juvenile justice programs to support children and families. Programs such as an online psychology associate degree offer an accessible entry point for those interested in this rewarding field.
Advocating for Policy Change: Washington’s progressive focus on mental health provides opportunities for graduates to engage in advocacy and policymaking. Whether working for nonprofits or governmental organizations, psychology professionals can influence policies that improve mental health resources and education statewide.

What are the essential Washington psychology license requirements for career success?

To secure licensure in Washington, candidates must navigate detailed standards that extend beyond academic and supervised experience. Emphasis is placed on:

• Comprehensive Documentation of Clinical Hours – Ensure meticulous recording of practicum, internship, and postdoctoral supervision that meets state-specific thresholds.

• Mastery of State Regulations – Demonstrate clear understanding of local ethical guidelines and legal practices critical for competent clinical work.

• Successful Completion of Standardized Exams – Achieve the required scores on both national and state-administered jurisprudence exams, which assess knowledge of essential practice protocols.

• Commitment to Ongoing Professional Development – Engage in structured continuing education to maintain an active license and adapt to evolving best practices.

Review detailed steps and criteria at Washington psychology license requirements for full guidance.

Start Your Journey as a Licensed Psychologist in Washington Now

Now that you have a list of accredited psychology programs and psychology schools in Washington, it is time to weigh your options and start your academic journey.

What can you do with a behavioral science degree or a psychology or counseling degree? The answer is a lot! You can use these degrees to help improve the state of mental health and well-being in Washington. You can make a mark in people’s lives and help people live their lives to the fullest.

Key Insights

High Demand for Psychologists: Washington has a significant need for mental health professionals due to its high prevalence of mental health issues, both among adults and children. This demand is expected to grow, with a 19% projected increase in employment for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists from 2020 to 2030.
Competitive Salaries: Psychologists in Washington earn competitive salaries compared to the national average. Clinical and counseling psychologists have a mean annual salary of $105,950, while school psychologists earn around $99,410, and other types of psychologists earn about $105,640 annually.
Educational Pathway: To become a licensed psychologist in Washington, one needs to complete a bachelor’s degree, an optional master’s degree, a doctoral degree, supervised postdoctoral experience, and pass state and national licensing exams.
Program Length and Costs: Becoming a psychologist can take between eight to 12 years of education and training. Tuition costs vary significantly between public and private institutions, with public universities offering lower tuition rates for residents.
Accreditation Importance: It's crucial to attend accredited programs to ensure high-quality education and eligibility for licensure. Accredited programs meet rigorous educational standards set by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA).
Continuing Education Requirements: Licensed psychologists in Washington must renew their licenses annually and complete 60 hours of continuing education every three years, with specific requirements for ethics and suicide assessment training.

FAQ

Is Washington a good place to be a psychologist?

Yes, Washington is a good place to be a psychologist due to the high demand for mental health professionals, competitive salaries, and the potential for career growth. The state has a significant need for psychologists, particularly in response to increasing mental health issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

What are the steps to becoming a psychologist in Washington?

To become a psychologist in Washington, you need to complete a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in psychology), optionally pursue a master’s degree, earn a doctoral degree in psychology, complete postdoctoral supervised experience, and pass the national Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the Washington State jurisprudence exam.

How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Washington?

It typically takes between eight to 12 years to become a licensed psychologist in Washington. This includes four years for a bachelor’s degree, four to seven years for a doctoral degree, and additional time to complete required supervised experience.

How much does it cost to attend psychology schools in Washington?

The cost varies significantly depending on the institution and the student’s residency status. For example, the University of Washington charges $12,643 per year for resident undergraduates and $41,997 for non-residents. Graduate tuition for doctoral programs can range from $18,633 to $32,511 annually. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help manage these costs.

What are the continuing education requirements for psychologists in Washington?

Licensed psychologists in Washington must complete 60 hours of continuing education credits every three years to keep their license active. This includes at least four hours dedicated to ethics-related topics and six hours every six years on the assessment and treatment of suicide.

What is the salary outlook for psychologists in Washington?

Psychologists in Washington have competitive salaries. Clinical and counseling psychologists earn a mean annual salary of $105,950, school psychologists earn around $99,410, and other types of psychologists earn about $105,640 annually. These figures are higher than the national averages.

Do I need a master’s degree to become a psychologist in Washington?

While a master’s degree is optional, many students earn their master’s degree during their doctoral programs. It can provide additional training and preparation for doctoral studies, but the primary requirement is to complete a doctoral degree in psychology.

What should I look for in a psychology program in Washington?

When selecting a psychology program, consider factors such as accreditation, program offerings, resources and special programs, faculty expertise, and opportunities for research and practical experience. Ensure the program meets the educational requirements for licensure in Washington.

Are there online psychology programs available in Washington?

Yes, there are online psychology programs available in Washington, particularly for undergraduate degrees. Some institutions, like Washington State University, offer online psychology degrees, but clinical psychology programs typically require in-person training and supervision.

What is the job outlook for psychologists in Washington?

The job outlook for psychologists in Washington is very positive, with a projected 19% growth in employment for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists from 2020 to 2030. This growth rate is higher than the national average and reflects the increasing demand for mental health services in the state.

How do psychology programs in Washington integrate environmental psychology and the state's natural surroundings into their curriculum?

Psychology programs in Washington often integrate environmental psychology into their curriculum, taking advantage of the state's diverse and abundant natural surroundings. Students may explore how environments, both natural and built, influence mental health and behavior. Courses might include topics like the psychological benefits of outdoor activities, the impact of urbanization, and the role of environmental factors in stress and well-being. Additionally, students have opportunities to engage in research and fieldwork that examine the relationship between people and their environments, providing a unique perspective on psychology that is deeply connected to Washington’s rich natural landscape and environmental consciousness.

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