How to Become a Psychologist in Maryland

Online Psychology Education in Maryland

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According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for psychologists is expected to increase by 6% nationwide from 2021 to 2031. This is about as fast as the average for all occupation in the nation. As a result, approximately 14,100 job openings are expected each year. In particular, the demand for psychological services being offered in schools, hospitals, mental health centers, and social service agencies is likely to lead to increased employment for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists.

It's important to realize, however, that studying psychology does not necessitate becoming a psychologist. Many who major in the field opt instead to pursue community and social service jobs. Employment for these professions is expected to increase by 10% by 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations in the nation. Additionally, certain jobs are projected to see even greater gains. Employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors, for example, is likely to grow 22%.

Educational services, healthcare, and social assistance is the third largest industry in Maryland, accounting for $37.8 billion in revenue each year. As of May 2021, the state employed 1,000 school psychologists and 820 clinical and counseling psychologists. An additional 530 psychology workers were unclassified. The annual mean wages for these professionals ranged between $88,610 and $111,350, which is well above the state’s annual mean wage of $65,900. Additionally, there were 46,980 community and social service professionals working in Maryland.

Maryland is a relatively small state in geographical size, but it’s still home to many colleges and universities that offer psychology degree programs. While there are academic institutions throughout the nation and online learning makes it possible to enroll from nearly anywhere, prospective students who plan to work in Maryland may want to give preference to schools located in the state. This is particularly important for those who intend to become licensed psychologists. Local colleges and universities tend to have a better understanding of state licensure requirements and regulations. They are also more familiar with employer standards in the region, which ensures students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to be professionally successful in the area.

Find Your Online Psychology Program

Those who possess degrees in psychology may also choose to seek employment in other related fields. Counseling is a common alternative. It’s less research-based and still helps people live healthier and happier lives.

Those interested in studying psychology can choose academic programs at almost every level – associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral. Many colleges and universities in Maryland offer the major, but prospective students should realize their education will likely directly correlate to the professional opportunities available after graduation. In particular, it’s important to realize that not all degrees in the field will lead to psychology licensure in the state.

Become a Psychology Professional in Maryland

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The first step to becoming a psychology professional in Maryland is determining your ultimate career goals. As previously mentioned, there are many professions available to those who possess degrees in psychology. Not only can graduates pursue jobs as psychologists, but there are many related community and social service occupations, as well. Identifying your preferred employment now can help ensure you obtain the most appropriate education, training, and experience. Every profession has its own requirements and expectations; research the options carefully as you assess which you prefer.

If you decide you want to become a psychologist, it’s important to know that you will need more than a degree. All psychologists in Maryland must be properly licensed. The licensing process is managed by the Board of Examiners of Psychologists, which is overseen by the Maryland Department of Health. The board is responsible for ensuring that all consumers in the state receive quality services in accordance with legal obligations.

Two options are available:

Licensed psychologists are permitted to provide a wide variety of services to patients and may maintain their own private practices. Registered psychology associates, on the other hand, can only offer psychological services under the supervision of licensed psychologists. These associate registrations last for two years before requiring renewal.

Both types of psychology professionals will need to meet several requirements. All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character. They must also expect to reside and/or practice in Maryland. The board may waive this standard, but only if it is in the interest of state citizens or government. Additionally, a criminal history records check is necessary.

Education and training standards differ for licensed psychologists and registered psychology associates. Licensed psychologists are required to possess doctoral degrees in psychology and have at least two years of professional, supervised experience in the field. Registered psychology associate applicants, however, may qualify with only master’s degrees. Degree options include clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, or education with a field of specialization in psychology or counseling from a program accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. Alternatively, they may possess a doctoral degree in a relevant subject already, or be admitted to candidacy for a doctoral degree after completing at least three years of postgraduate education in psychology and passing preliminary doctoral examinations.

Both licensed psychologist and registered psychology associates must submit all necessary application materials to the board. These include completed application packets, nonrefundable application fees, supporting documents, official transcripts sent directly by the school, and fees associated with criminal history records checks.

It’s also important to realize that these professions are also responsible for completing continuing education (CE). Qualifying trainings must be approved by authorized sponsors such as the American Psychological Association, Association for Psychological Science, American Medical Association, or National Association of Social Works. Proof of CE should be documented and submitted regularly.

Careers for Psychology Graduates

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