How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Arkansas
To become a licensed psychologist in Arkansas, you need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology from an accredited program, complete 2,000 hours of supervised professional experience (typically 1-2 years), and pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP). The full process takes 8-10 years from a bachelor's degree to licensure. Median salary for mental health professionals in Arkansas is $49,990, with experienced psychologists earning up to $102,400 annually.
Becoming a licensed psychologist in Arkansas is a significant commitment that requires extensive education, hands-on training, and demonstrated competency. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of the licensure process, from selecting a doctoral program to passing your licensing exam and launching your career.
Arkansas maintains rigorous standards for psychologist licensure to ensure patients receive care from highly qualified professionals. While the path is demanding, it leads to a rewarding career helping individuals, families, and communities improve their mental health and quality of life.
Table of Contents
- Arkansas Psychologist Requirements Overview
- Step 1: Earn Your Doctoral Degree in Psychology
- Step 2: Complete Supervised Professional Experience
- Step 3: Pass the EPPP Examination
- Step 4: Apply for Arkansas Licensure
- Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
- Psychology Specializations in Arkansas
- Career Outlook and Salary Information
- Psychologist vs Other Mental Health Careers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Key Takeaways
Arkansas Psychologist Requirements Overview
The Arkansas Board of Psychology Examiners oversees the licensure process for psychologists in the state. To qualify for licensure, you must meet all of the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Doctoral Degree | PhD or PsyD in psychology or a closely related field from an accredited institution (minimum 80 semester hours) | 4-6 years |
| APA-Accredited Internship | Minimum 2,000 hours or one year (can count toward supervised experience) | 1 year |
| Supervised Professional Experience | An additional 2,000 hours (full-time, 40 hours per week) under a licensed psychologist | 1-2 years |
| EPPP Examination | Pass with a minimum score of 500 (225 questions, 175 scored) | 3-6 months prep |
| Application Process | Submit application, fees, transcripts, and verification documents to the Arkansas Board | 2-4 months |
Total Timeline: Most candidates complete the entire process in 8-10 years from starting their bachelor's degree to receiving their Arkansas psychology license.
Step 1: Earn Your Doctoral Degree in Psychology
Arkansas requires a doctoral degree in psychology or a very closely related field from a nationally or regionally accredited institution. The Arkansas Board of Psychology Examiners strongly recommends programs accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) or programs that meet their specific course requirements.
Doctoral Degree Requirements
Your doctoral program must include:
- Minimum 80 semester hours of graduate-level coursework
- Core psychology foundations, including biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases, social bases, individual differences, research methods, and professional ethics
- Dissertation or doctoral project demonstrating original research
- Clinical training, including practicum experiences throughout the program
PhD vs PsyD: Which Should You Choose?
Both degree types qualify you for licensure in Arkansas, but they have different emphases:
| Degree Type | Focus | Best For | Typical Program Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) | Research and academia, with clinical training | Those interested in research, teaching, or academic careers alongside clinical work | 5-7 years |
| PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) | Clinical practice and applied psychology | Those focused primarily on clinical practice and direct patient care | 4-6 years |
Finding APA-Accredited Programs
While Arkansas has several excellent psychology doctoral programs, you can attend an accredited program anywhere in the United States. APA accreditation ensures your education meets national standards and is recognized by all state licensing boards.
Arkansas is home to APA-accredited doctoral programs at institutions including the University of Arkansas and other state universities. When selecting a program, consider factors such as:
- APA accreditation status
- Specialization areas offered (clinical, counseling, school psychology)
- Internship placement rates and partnerships
- Faculty research interests and mentorship opportunities
- Licensure exam pass rates for graduates
- Total program costs and available funding
Step 2: Complete Supervised Professional Experience
After completing your doctoral degree and APA-accredited internship, you must accumulate an additional year of supervised professional experience before qualifying for licensure in Arkansas.
Supervised Experience Requirements
Duration: Minimum 2,000 hours of full-time work (40 hours per week for one year)
Timeline: Must be completed within four years, though most candidates finish within 12-18 months
Supervision: Work must be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist who:
- Holds an active, unrestricted license in good standing
- Provides at least one hour of face-to-face supervision per week
- Reviews and approves your clinical work
- Documents your progress and competency development
Where to Gain Supervised Experience
Most candidates complete their supervised hours in settings such as:
- Community mental health centers serving diverse populations across Arkansas
- Hospital psychology departments in larger cities like Little Rock, Fayetteville, and Fort Smith
- Private practices that hire post-doctoral residents
- University counseling centers at Arkansas colleges and universities
- State agencies, including the Division of Behavioral Health Services
- Veterans Affairs facilities serving Arkansas veterans
- School districts for those pursuing school psychology licensure
Important Note: Your APA-accredited predoctoral internship hours can count toward the 2,000-hour supervised experience requirement, but most candidates complete additional post-doctoral hours to meet Arkansas standards.
What Gets Counted?
Acceptable supervised activities include:
- Direct client contact (assessment, therapy, counseling)
- Case documentation and treatment planning
- Psychological testing and evaluation
- Supervision and consultation meetings
- Professional development activities approved by the supervisor
Activities that typically don't count include administrative tasks unrelated to psychological services, teaching without a clinical component, and personal therapy.
Step 3: Pass the EPPP Examination
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is the standard licensing exam used across all U.S. states and Canadian provinces. In Arkansas, you must pass the EPPP as part of your licensure application.
EPPP Exam Details
The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) administers the EPPP. The exam consists of:
- 225 multiple-choice questions (175 scored, 50 pretest items)
- 4 hours 15 minutes testing time
- Passing score in Arkansas: 500 (on a scale of 200-800)
- Computer-based testing at Pearson VUE centers
EPPP Content Areas
The exam covers eight major content areas of psychology:
- Biological bases of behavior (12%)
- Cognitive-affective bases of behavior (14%)
- Social and cultural bases of behavior (12%)
- Growth and lifespan development (11%)
- Assessment and diagnosis (16%)
- Treatment, intervention, prevention (16%)
- Research methods and statistics (8%)
- Ethical, legal, and professional issues (11%)
Preparing for the EPPP
Most successful candidates spend 3-6 months preparing for the exam using:
- ASPPB's official study materials and practice exams
- Commercial prep courses (EPPP Academy, PsychPrep, Academic Review)
- Study groups with other candidates
- Flashcards and review books covering all content areas
National Pass Rate: Approximately 78% of first-time test-takers pass the EPPP.
When to Take the EPPP
You can apply to take the EPPP through the Arkansas Board of Psychology once you've completed (or are nearing completion of) your doctoral degree and internship. Many candidates take the exam during their post-doctoral supervised experience year.
Step 4: Apply for Arkansas Licensure
Once you've completed your education, supervised experience, and passed the EPPP, you're ready to apply for your psychology license in Arkansas.
Application Requirements
Your Arkansas psychology licensure application must include:
- Completed the application form from the Arkansas Board of Psychology
- Application fee (check current fee schedule on Board website)
- Official transcripts from all graduate institutions
- EPPP score report sent directly from ASPPB
- Supervision verification forms documenting your 2,000 hours
- Letters of recommendation (typically 3-5) from supervisors and colleagues
- Background check results
- Verification of any other state licenses you hold
Application Processing Time
The Arkansas Board typically processes complete applications within 2-4 months. Incomplete applications or those requiring additional documentation may take longer.
Maintaining Your License
Once licensed, Arkansas psychologists must:
- Renew their license annually
- Complete continuing education requirements
- Maintain professional liability insurance
- Adhere to the APA Ethics Code and Arkansas regulations
- Report any changes in practice status or disciplinary actions
Timeline: How Long Does It Take?
Here's a realistic timeline for becoming a licensed psychologist in Arkansas:
| Stage | Duration | What You're Doing |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | Psychology or related major, research experience, and strong GPA for doctoral applications |
| Doctoral Program (PhD/PsyD) | 4-6 years | Coursework, practicum experiences, comprehensive exams, and dissertation |
| APA-Accredited Internship | 1 year (included in doctoral program) | Full-time clinical training, 2,000 hours supervised practice |
| Post-Doctoral Experience | 1-2 years | An additional 2,000 hours of supervised work, EPPP preparation |
| EPPP Exam | 3-6 months prep | Studying content areas, taking practice exams, scheduling, and passing the exam |
| Licensure Application | 2-4 months | Gathering documents, submitting the application, and Board review |
| Total Timeline | 8-10 years | From a bachelor's degree to receiving the Arkansas psychology license |
Can You Work While Completing Requirements? Yes, during your post-doctoral supervised experience, you're typically employed full-time in a supervised position, earning a salary while accumulating hours.
Psychology Specializations in Arkansas
Arkansas licenses psychologists in several specialty areas. While your doctorate determines your general preparation, you can pursue additional training and credentials in specific practice areas:
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They work in hospitals, mental health clinics, private practice, and other healthcare settings. This is the most common specialization in Arkansas.
Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychologists help individuals manage life transitions, relationship issues, career challenges, and mild to moderate mental health concerns. They often work in university counseling centers, community agencies, and private practice.
School Psychology
School psychologists work within educational systems to support students' academic achievement, behavior, and social-emotional development. They conduct assessments, develop interventions, and consult with teachers and parents. School psychologists must meet additional requirements from the Arkansas Department of Education.
Health Psychology
Health psychologists focus on how psychological factors affect physical health and illness. They often work in medical settings, helping patients manage chronic conditions, pain, and health behavior change.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal and criminal justice matters, conducting evaluations for courts, consulting on cases, and providing expert testimony.
Career Outlook and Salary Information
Employment Projections
The mental health field in Arkansas is experiencing steady growth. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the clinical and counseling psychology industry in Arkansas is projected to grow 11% through 2030, creating increased demand for qualified licensed psychologists.
As Arkansas continues to address mental health needs across rural and urban communities, opportunities for psychologists are expanding in:
- Telehealth and virtual therapy services
- Integrated behavioral health in primary care settings
- Substance abuse treatment programs
- School-based mental health services
- Veterans services and military family support
Psychologist Salaries in Arkansas
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, mental health professionals in Arkansas earn competitive salaries that increase significantly with experience and specialization:
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (10th percentile) | $31,600 | New professionals, post-doctoral positions |
| 25th Percentile | $37,280 | Early-career psychologists (1-3 years) |
| Median (50th percentile) | $49,990 | Mid-career psychologists (5-10 years) |
| 75th Percentile | $69,630 | Experienced psychologists, specialized practice |
| Top Earners (90th percentile) | $102,400 | Senior psychologists, private practice owners, specialized consultants |
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence psychologist salaries in Arkansas:
- Location: Psychologists in Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville) and the Little Rock metro area typically earn higher salaries than those in rural communities
- Practice Setting: Private practice psychologists often earn more than those in community agencies or schools, though income varies based on patient volume and insurance contracts
- Specialization: Neuropsychologists, forensic psychologists, and those with specialized assessment skills command higher fees
- Experience: Salaries increase steadily with years of practice and established client bases
- Additional Credentials: Board certification and specialized training boost earning potential
Employment Settings
Arkansas psychologists work in diverse settings across the state:
- Private Practice: Solo or group practices offering therapy and assessment services
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: Major facilities in Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, and Jonesboro
- Community Mental Health Centers: Serving populations throughout Arkansas, especially underserved areas
- University Counseling Centers: Supporting students at Arkansas colleges and universities
- School Districts: Providing psychological services in educational settings
- Government Agencies: VA hospitals, state agencies, correctional facilities
- Research Institutions: Universities and medical schools conducting psychological research
Psychologist vs Other Mental Health Careers in Arkansas
If you're considering a career in mental health in Arkansas, it's worth understanding how becoming a psychologist compares to related professions. Each career path has different education requirements, timelines, and practice capabilities:
| Career Path | Degree Required | Years of Education | Can Diagnose? | Can Prescribe Medication? | Arkansas Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist | Doctoral (PhD/PsyD) | 8-10 years | Yes | No (in Arkansas) | $49,990 |
| Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) | Master's | 6-7 years | Yes (limited) | No | $45,000-$55,000 |
| Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) | Master's (MSW) | 6-7 years | Yes (limited) | No | $42,000-$52,000 |
| Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) | Master's | 6-7 years | Yes (limited) | No | $43,000-$53,000 |
| Psychiatrist | Medical Degree (MD/DO) | 12+ years | Yes | Yes | $220,000+ |
Key Advantages of Psychologist Licensure
- Comprehensive training in psychological assessment, testing, and research-based interventions
- Authority to conduct psychological testing, including IQ tests, personality assessments, and neuropsychological evaluations
- Recognition as a doctoral-level provider by insurance companies and healthcare systems
- Ability to supervise other mental health professionals and psychology students
- Research and academic opportunities for PhD holders
- Higher earning potential than master's-level therapists
Master's-Level Alternatives
If the doctoral path seems too lengthy or expensive, Arkansas offers excellent master's-level licensure options. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), and Marriage and Family Therapists can provide therapy and make clinical diagnoses. These paths take 6-7 years total (bachelor's plus master's plus supervised hours) versus 8-10 years for psychologist licensure.
The main limitations of master's-level licenses are restricted ability to conduct psychological testing and somewhat lower earning potential. However, many master's-level clinicians build successful, fulfilling practices throughout Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a psychologist in Arkansas?
The complete process typically takes 8-10 years from starting your bachelor's degree to receiving your Arkansas psychology license. This includes 4 years for your bachelor's degree, 4-6 years for your doctoral program (including internship), 1-2 years for post-doctoral supervised experience, and several months for exam preparation and license processing.
Can I become a psychologist in Arkansas with just a master's degree?
No. Arkansas requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology for psychologist licensure. However, you can practice mental health therapy with a master's degree by becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). These professions allow you to provide counseling and therapy services, but don't carry the title "psychologist."
How much do psychologists make in Arkansas?
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, mental health professionals in Arkansas earn a median salary of $49,990 annually. Entry-level positions start around $31,600, while experienced psychologists with specialized skills or private practices can earn $69,630 to $102,400 or more. Salaries vary based on location, specialization, practice setting, and years of experience.
Is the EPPP exam difficult?
The EPPP has a national first-time pass rate of approximately 78%, indicating that while challenging, it's passable with proper preparation. Most candidates study for 3-6 months using official materials, practice exams, and commercial prep courses. The exam requires 500 or higher to pass in Arkansas. Test-takers who dedicate adequate study time and use structured preparation methods typically succeed.
Does Arkansas accept psychology licenses from other states?
Arkansas participates in the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), which allows temporary practice across state lines under certain conditions. However, for permanent licensure in Arkansas, you must apply through the Arkansas Board of Psychology. The good news is that your EPPP scores transfer between states, so you won't need to retake the exam if you're already licensed elsewhere.
Can psychologists prescribe medication in Arkansas?
No, psychologists cannot prescribe medication in Arkansas. Only medical doctors (psychiatrists, primary care physicians) and advanced practice nurses can prescribe psychiatric medications. Some states have begun allowing specially trained psychologists to prescribe, but Arkansas has not adopted prescriptive authority legislation. Psychologists often work collaboratively with prescribing providers to coordinate comprehensive care for patients.
What's the difference between a psychologist and a therapist in Arkansas?
"Psychologist" is a protected title in Arkansas that requires doctoral-level education and state licensure. "Therapist" is a general term that can refer to various licensed mental health professionals, including psychologists, counselors, social workers, and marriage and family therapists. All can provide therapy, but psychologists have the most extensive training and are uniquely qualified to conduct psychological testing and assessments.
Are there any Arkansas-specific programs I should know about?
Arkansas has several universities offering psychology programs at various levels. The University of Arkansas in Fayetteville offers APA-accredited doctoral programs in clinical psychology. Additionally, Arkansas's Division of Behavioral Health Services often has fellowship and employment opportunities for early-career psychologists. The Arkansas Psychological Association provides networking, continuing education, and professional development resources for psychologists throughout the state.
What happens if I don't pass the EPPP on my first attempt?
If you don't pass the EPPP, you can retake the exam. ASPPB requires a 91-day waiting period between attempts. You'll need to register again and pay the examination fee. Many candidates who don't pass the first time succeed on subsequent attempts after identifying weak content areas and adjusting their study approach. There's no limit to the number of times you can take the exam.
Can I complete my supervised hours while finishing my dissertation?
This depends on your program's requirements and your ability to manage both commitments. Some doctoral candidates begin accumulating post-doctoral hours during their final dissertation year, especially if they're working full-time in a supervised position. However, check with both your doctoral program and the Arkansas Board to ensure any hours earned before degree conferral will count toward licensure requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Doctoral Degree Required: Arkansas requires a PhD or PsyD in psychology from an accredited institution with a minimum of 80 semester hours of coursework
- Supervised Experience: Complete 2,000 hours (one year full-time) of supervised professional experience under a licensed psychologist, in addition to your APA-accredited internship
- Pass the EPPP: Score 500 or higher on the national psychology licensing exam, which has a 78% first-time pass rate
- 8-10 Year Timeline: Expect the full journey from bachelor's degree to licensure to take approximately eight to ten years
- Competitive Salaries: Arkansas psychologists earn median salaries of $49,990, with experienced professionals earning $70,000-$102,400+ annually
- Growing Field: 11% projected job growth through 2030 creates expanding opportunities across Arkansas
- Multiple Pathways: Consider clinical, counseling, school, health, or forensic psychology specializations based on your career interests
Ready to Begin Your Psychology Career in Arkansas?
The path to becoming a licensed psychologist requires dedication, but it leads to a rewarding career making a real difference in people's lives. Whether you're just starting your undergraduate degree or you're ready to apply for licensure, understanding the requirements helps you plan your journey effectively.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, Psychologists-All Other; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors; and Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
