How to Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma [2023 Guide]

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Becoming a Licensed Psychologist in Oklahoma

The process of becoming a psychologist in Oklahoma involves dedication to education, obtaining a license, and focusing on professional development. By adhering to the outlined steps in this guide, you can create a thriving career in psychology and assist individuals and communities in achieving mental health and well-being.

Engaging in a gratifying psychology profession not only enables you to make a significant difference in the lives of others but also provides opportunities for continuous learning and advancement in the ever-evolving domain of mental health care.

Requirements to Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma

Educational Requirements

A comprehensive understanding of the educational requirements is essential for aspiring psychologists in Oklahoma. This section provides a more detailed overview of the necessary steps to complete your education, from high school to doctoral studies.

High School Preparation

Laying a strong foundation during high school is crucial for aspiring psychologists. Focus on taking courses that enhance your understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and scientific research methods. Recommended courses include:

Psychology: An introduction to the basic concepts, principles, and theories in the field of psychology.
Sociology: The study of human societies, cultures, and group behavior.
Biology: The examination of living organisms, including human anatomy and physiology, which can provide insights into the biological basis of behavior.
Statistics: A course that will help you develop essential analytical skills for research and data interpretation in psychology.
Advanced Placement (AP) courses: Enroll in AP Psychology, AP Biology, or other related subjects to receive college credit and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

Participate in extracurricular activities such as volunteering at mental health organizations, joining psychology clubs, or conducting research projects to gain exposure to the field and develop relevant skills.

Bachelor's Degree

Pursuing a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field is the first step towards becoming a psychologist. While a psychology major is the most common choice, other relevant fields of study include:

Sociology
Human Development and Family Science
Education
Cognitive Science
Neuroscience

Consider taking elective courses that align with your interests and future career goals, such as child development, abnormal psychology, or social psychology. Additionally, get involved in research projects or internships to gain practical experience and strengthen your graduate school applications.

Master's Degree (Optional)

A master's degree in psychology or a related field can enhance your understanding of specific areas within psychology and improve your job prospects. Some students may also choose to pursue a master's degree before applying to doctoral programs. Specializations at the master's level may include:

Clinical Psychology
Counseling Psychology
School Psychology
Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Forensic Psychology

Completing a master's program typically involves coursework, research, and practical experiences such as internships or practicums.

Doctoral Degree

To practice as a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma, you must obtain a doctoral degree from an accredited program. Two primary types of doctoral programs are available:

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in psychology: This research-focused degree prepares students for careers in academia, research, or clinical practice. Students complete coursework, conduct original research, and write a dissertation.
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.): This practice-oriented degree focuses on training students for careers in clinical or counseling psychology. The Psy.D. program includes coursework, practical experiences, and a capstone project or dissertation.

Doctoral programs in Oklahoma often require internships and practicum experiences to ensure that students gain practical skills in their chosen specialization. These experiences can take place in various settings such as hospitals, schools, or mental health clinics.

By understanding the educational requirements for becoming a psychologist in Oklahoma, you can create a well-informed plan to achieve your goals in the field.

Licensure Requirements

Becoming a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma involves a series of steps, including meeting educational requirements, passing examinations, and completing supervised experience. This section provides a more detailed overview of the licensing and certification process for psychologists in Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists is responsible for licensing psychologists in the state. The board sets the requirements for licensure, oversees the application process, and ensures that licensed psychologists adhere to the professional standards and ethical guidelines.

Postdoctoral Supervised Experience

After completing your doctoral degree, you are required to complete a minimum of 2,000 hours of postdoctoral supervised experience under the guidance of a licensed psychologist. This experience must be completed within a two-year period and should include direct client contact, assessments, and interventions. To find a qualified supervisor, consider the following resources:

Professional organizations such as the Oklahoma Psychological Association
University alumni networks
Colleagues or professors in the field

Make sure to document your supervised experience and maintain regular communication with your supervisor to ensure that all requirements are met.

Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)

As a crucial part of the licensing process, you must pass the EPPP, a national standardized examination that assesses your knowledge of psychological principles and practices. The EPPP consists of the following sections:

Biological bases of behavior
Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
Social and multicultural bases of behavior
Growth and lifespan development
Assessment and diagnosis
Treatment, intervention, prevention, and supervision
Research methods and statistics
Ethical, legal, and professional issues

The exam contains 225 multiple-choice questions, with a four-hour time limit. To prepare for the EPPP, utilize various study materials and resources, such as practice tests, review courses, and textbooks covering the core topics.

Oklahoma Jurisprudence Examination

In addition to the EPPP, you must pass the Oklahoma Jurisprudence Examination to demonstrate your understanding of the state's laws and regulations governing the practice of psychology. This exam covers topics such as:

Oklahoma Psychologists Licensing Act
Oklahoma Administrative Code
Ethical guidelines and professional conduct

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and may be taken online. Study materials are available from the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists or through independent study of relevant laws and regulations.

Application for Licensure

Once you have completed the educational requirements, passed the required examinations, and fulfilled the postdoctoral supervised experience, you can submit your application for licensure to the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. The application process includes:

Completing the application form
Providing official transcripts from your doctoral program
Submitting documentation of your supervised experience
Paying the application fee
Providing proof of passing the EPPP and Oklahoma Jurisprudence Examination

Maintaining Licensure and Continuing Education

To maintain your psychology license in Oklahoma, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education annually to renew your license every year. Continuing education helps you stay current with the latest advancements in the field, enhance your professional skills, and meet ethical standards. Acceptable continuing education activities include:

Attending workshops, seminars, or conferences
Participating in online courses or webinars
Completing academic coursework related to psychology

Ensure that the continuing education programs you choose are accredited by recognized organizations, such as the American Psychological Association or the Oklahoma Psychological Association.

Oklahoma Psychology Licensure by Reciprocity

For individuals already licensed in a different state, you can apply for licensure in Oklahoma by submitting your application to the Board, accompanied by a $400 application fee, two recent passport-sized photos, a notarized Citizenship Affidavit, and an Application for Health Service Psychologist Certification.

You must also provide three recommendation letters from licensed psychologists mentioned in your application, a completed Out-of-State Licensure Verification form, and either your Certificate of Professional Qualification in Psychology (CPQ) or American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) Certification.

After your application receives approval from the committee, you are permitted to practice using your existing out-of-state licensure for one year while you fulfill the remaining Oklahoma licensure requirements. During this period, you must pass the Oklahoma Jurisprudence Exam. Oklahoma licensure will be granted once all necessary conditions are met.

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

The time it takes to become a psychologist in Oklahoma depends on the educational path, the completion of supervised experience, and the licensure process. Here's a general timeline for each stage:

Bachelor's degree: 4 years
Master's degree (optional): 2-3 years
Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.): 4-7 years
Postdoctoral supervised experience: 2 years
Licensure process (including exam preparation and application): Several months

In total, the process of becoming a licensed psychologist in Oklahoma can take anywhere from 10 to 14 years. This estimate includes the time spent obtaining a bachelor's degree, completing a doctoral program, gaining the required postdoctoral supervised experience, and navigating the licensure process.

Keep in mind that individual circumstances, such as part-time studies or delays in the licensure process, can influence the total duration.

Which Schools Offer Psychology Programs in Oklahoma?

Several schools in Oklahoma offer psychology programs at various levels. Some of these institutions include:

University of Oklahoma (OU)
Oklahoma State University (OSU)
University of Tulsa (TU)
Oklahoma City University (OCU)
East Central University (ECU)
Northeastern State University (NSU)
University of Central Oklahoma (UCO)
Southern Nazarene University (SNU)

What are the Psychology Specializations and Career Opportunities in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, a range of psychology specializations and career paths are available to those with the proper education and licensure. Some popular specializations include:

Clinical Psychology: Professionals in this field evaluate, diagnose, and treat emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders. Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings, such as private practices, hospitals, and mental health facilities.
Counseling Psychology: These psychologists assist clients in dealing with life challenges and transitions, including relationship problems, career shifts, or stress management. They often find employment in counseling centers, educational institutions, or private practices.
School Psychology: Focusing on the mental health and well-being of students, school psychologists collaborate with educators, parents, and pupils to tackle learning and behavioral issues and support academic achievement.
Forensic Psychology: This specialization involves applying psychological principles within the legal system. Forensic psychologists may participate in criminal investigations, civil disputes, or family court cases, offering expert assessments and testimony.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology: I-O psychologists apply psychological concepts to workplace environments, aiming to enhance employee performance, job satisfaction, and overall organizational effectiveness. They can work in consulting firms, businesses, or government agencies.
Neuropsychology: Neuropsychologists concentrate on understanding the connection between the brain and behavior. They evaluate and address cognitive, emotional, and behavioral concerns linked to neurological conditions, such as brain injuries, dementia, or strokes.

These specializations provide various career opportunities in diverse settings like private practices, schools, hospitals, government agencies, companies, and non-profit organizations.

The demand for mental health professionals in Oklahoma is predicted to grow over the years, resulting in an expanding job market for psychologists across multiple sectors.

How Much Do Psychologists Make in Oklahoma?

The income for psychologists in Oklahoma can differ based on various factors like specialization, experience, education, and the nature of the work setting. As of April 2023, the average annual wage for psychologists in Oklahoma is around $102,465.

It's important to note that this number represents a general average and does not encompass all specializations within the field of psychology. Psychologists with specializations like industrial-organizational psychology or those holding advanced qualifications, such as board certifications, may command higher salaries.

Furthermore, professionals in private practice or those employed in specialized sectors, like forensic psychology or neuropsychology, may experience different income levels.

Can I Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma With a Master's Degree?

In Oklahoma, you can pursue some psychology-related careers with a master's degree; however, to become a licensed psychologist, you are typically required to hold a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology or a closely related field. The Oklahoma State Board of Examiners of Psychologists mandates that applicants for licensure must have completed an accredited doctoral program in psychology.

That said, having a master's degree in psychology can still open doors to other mental health professions, such as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). These roles involve providing mental health support and counseling services to individuals, couples, and families.

What are the Requirements to Become a School Psychologist in Oklahoma?

To become a school psychologist in Oklahoma, you need to fulfill following requirements:

Obtain a Master's degree, a Specialist degree, or a Doctoral degree in School Psychology (at least 60 hours, irrespective of the degree).
Complete a 1,200-hour supervised internship lasting one year.
Achieve a passing score on the PRAXIS School Psychology Test or required state exams, including the Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET), Oklahoma Professional Teaching Exam (OPTE), and Oklahoma Subject Area Test (OSAT) in School Psychology.
Submit the Standard Teacher Certification Application for Oklahoma, accompanied by all academic transcripts.
Undergo a background check

Concluding Thoughts

Pursuing a career as a psychologist in Oklahoma necessitates dedication to education, licensure, and professional growth. Adhering to the steps detailed in this guide will enable you to establish a thriving career in psychology, contributing to the mental health and well-being of individuals and communities.

A fulfilling career in psychology not only empowers you to positively impact the lives of others but also offers chances for ongoing learning and development in the constantly changing landscape of mental health care.

How to Become a Psychologist in Oklahoma [2023 Updated]