How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Colorado
To become a licensed psychologist in Colorado, you need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program and 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised experience. You must pass both the EPPP and Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination. The complete process typically takes 8-10 years, with clinical psychologists earning a median salary of $106,470 annually in Colorado.
Colorado's mental health landscape presents exceptional opportunities for licensed psychologists. An estimated 32% of Colorado adults report symptoms of anxiety or depression (CDC, 2023), and the state ranks among the top 10 nationally for residents experiencing mental illness. This creates significant demand for qualified mental health professionals, particularly in underserved areas like Boulder, Yuma, Mesa, Rio Grande, Arapahoe, El Paso, and Pueblo counties.
The Colorado State Board of Psychologist Examiners regulates psychology licensure and sets rigorous standards to ensure practitioners meet the highest professional qualifications. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step of the licensing process, from selecting your educational path to passing your final examinations.
Table of Contents
Education Requirements
Colorado requires all psychologist candidates to complete a doctoral degree from an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited program or a program judged substantially equivalent by the Colorado State Board of Psychologist Examiners.
Bachelor's Degree Foundation
Your journey begins with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field. While you don't need to major in psychology, coursework in statistics, research methods, and core psychology topics provides essential preparation for graduate study. Most successful applicants have completed courses in abnormal psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, and biological bases of behavior.
Doctoral Degree Requirements
Colorado mandates a doctoral degree for psychology licensure. The program must meet specific criteria:
- Program Length: At least three years of full-time graduate study beyond the bachelor's degree
- Accreditation: APA accreditation or substantial equivalency as determined by the Board
- Core Content Areas: Comprehensive coverage of individual differences, biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases of behavior, and social bases of behavior
- Practicum: Minimum 400 hours of supervised clinical experience
- Internship: Minimum 1,500 hours of supervised pre-doctoral internship
- Diversity Training: Coursework or training in racial and ethnic bases of behavior
Programs not accredited by the APA undergo a detailed equivalency review. Graduates must complete a course worksheet documenting how their program covered each required content area. This review process can take several months, so plan accordingly.
Choosing Between PhD and PsyD Programs
Colorado accepts both Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degrees, but these programs emphasize different aspects of psychology training.
| Program Type | PhD in Psychology | PsyD in Psychology |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Research and academia with clinical training | Clinical practice with research exposure |
| Dissertation | Extensive original research contributing to the field | Shorter applied research project or clinical case study |
| Typical Duration | 5-7 years | 4-6 years |
| Career Paths | Clinical practice, research, academia, consultation | Clinical practice, healthcare settings, private practice |
| Funding | Often funded through assistantships and fellowships | Typically requires student loans or self-funding |
Making Your Choice
Choose a PhD if you're interested in conducting research, teaching at the university level, or want the flexibility to work in both clinical and research settings. A PhD typically offers better funding opportunities through research or teaching assistantships.
Select a PsyD if your primary goal is direct clinical work with patients. PsyD programs provide more clinical hours and practical training, preparing you to enter practice immediately after licensure. However, expect to finance more of your education through loans.
Both degrees qualify you for full psychology licensure in Colorado and lead to the exact scope of practice once licensed. Your choice should align with your career goals and learning preferences. Students interested in psychology programs in Colorado can explore both doctoral options at state universities and private institutions.
Supervised Experience Requirements
Colorado requires 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised experience before you can obtain full licensure. This experience must be completed under specific conditions.
Psychologist Candidate Status
After completing your doctoral degree, you register with the Board as a "Psychologist Candidate" or "Provisional Psychologist." This temporary credential allows you to practice under supervision while accumulating your required hours. The credential is initially valid for four years, with the possibility of applying for a one-year extension under Colorado Board Rule 1.10(G)(2) if additional time is needed to complete your supervised experience requirements.
Supervised Hour Requirements
- Total Hours: Minimum 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised experience required
- Supervision: Must be provided by a licensed psychologist or board-certified psychiatrist
- Direct Supervision Requirement: At least 75 hours of direct supervision must be completed, with a minimum of 50 hours in individual (one-on-one) supervision format, as specified in Colorado Board Rule 1.10(H)(1)
- Psychiatrist Supervision Limit: No more than 375 hours under psychiatrist supervision (maximum 17.75 hours of direct supervision)
- Research and Teaching: Up to 500 hours each may count toward the total
- Time Frame: Generally completed within two years
Documentation and Verification
Your supervisor must verify your training hours using the Board's certification forms. Maintain detailed logs of your activities, including dates, hours, type of work performed, and supervision received. The Board may audit this documentation during the application process.
Graduates of non-APA-accredited programs experiencing lengthy equivalency reviews may register as unlicensed psychotherapists to begin accumulating post-doctoral hours while awaiting Board approval.
Examination Requirements
Colorado requires two examinations for psychology licensure: the national EPPP exam and the state-specific Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination.
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
The EPPP is a national standardized exam testing foundational knowledge across all areas of professional psychology. Key details:
- Format: 225 multiple-choice questions
- Content Areas: Biological bases, cognitive-affective bases, social and cultural bases, individual differences, assessment and diagnosis, treatment intervention, research methods, ethical and professional issues
- Passing Score: Set by the Colorado Board (typically 500 on a scaled score)
- Registration: Through the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB)
- Cost: Approximately $850 base fee (as of 2025, subject to change with possible additional fees)
- Preparation: Most candidates study for 3-6 months using review courses and practice exams
Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination
This state-specific exam tests your knowledge of Colorado's mental health laws, regulations, and ethical standards. It covers:
- Colorado Mental Health Practice Act
- State Board rules and regulations
- Mandatory reporting requirements
- Scope of practice boundaries
- Professional ethics specific to Colorado
- Patient rights and confidentiality laws
The Colorado Board provides study materials and references for this examination. All candidates, including those applying for licensure by endorsement from other states, must pass this exam. However, endorsement applicants who are already licensed in another jurisdiction may be exempt from retaking the EPPP if they meet specific criteria.
Application Process
Once you've completed your education, supervised hours, and examinations, you're ready to apply for Colorado licensure.
Application Steps
- Create an Account: Register in the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) Online Services system.
- Submit Application: Complete the Psychologist Initial License application by examination or endorsement method.d
- Provide Documentation: Submit official transcripts, verification of supervised hours, and examination scores.
- Background Check: Complete fingerprint-based background check and disclose any criminal convictions
- Application Fee: Pay required fees (check current fee schedule on DORA website)
- Board Review: Wait for Board review and approval (processing times vary)
Licensure by Endorsement
Colorado does not offer automatic reciprocity with other states, but does provide a pathway to licensure by endorsement for psychologists already licensed in another jurisdiction. To qualify, you must demonstrate that your credentials meet Colorado's educational and experience requirements. You must pass the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination in all cases. However, you may be exempt from retaking the EPPP if you've already passed it in another state and meet specific Board criteria.
For detailed forms and current application procedures, visit the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies Psychology Division.
Complete Timeline and Costs
Understanding the full timeline and financial investment helps you plan your path to licensure effectively.
| Stage | Duration | Estimated Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | $40,000-$160,000 (varies by institution) |
| Doctoral Program (PhD) | 5-7 years | Often funded through assistantships |
| Doctoral Program (PsyD) | 4-6 years | $60,000-$200,000+ |
| Post-Doctoral Supervised Hours | 1-2 years | Earning income as a candidate ($40,000-$60,000/year) |
| EPPP Examination | 3-6 months prep | $850 exam + $500-$1,500 prep materials |
| Colorado Jurisprudence Exam | 1-2 months prep | Included in application fees |
| Application Processing | 2-4 months | $300-$500 (application and background check) |
| Total Timeline | 8-10+ years | Varies significantly by program choice |
The timeline can vary based on whether you attend full-time or part-time, your program's structure, and how quickly you complete your supervised hours and pass examinations.
Salary and Career Outlook in Colorado
Colorado offers strong career prospects for licensed psychologists, with salaries ranking among the highest in the nation.
Psychologist Salaries in Colorado
According to the latest 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, psychologists in Colorado earn competitive salaries that rank among the highest in the nation:
- Median Annual Salary (Clinical Psychologists): $106,470 (Colorado ranks third nationally for clinical psychologist compensation)
- Entry-Level (0-2 years): $70,000-$85,000
- Mid-Career (5-10 years): $95,000-$130,000
- Experienced (10+ years): $120,000-$160,000+
- 90th Percentile: Over $209,000 annually for top earners
Salary by Specialization
| Psychology Specialization | National Median | Colorado Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $96,100 | 10-15% above the national average |
| Industrial-Organizational Psychologists | $109,840 | Competitive with the national average |
| School Psychologists | $86,930 | 5-10% above the national average |
| All Other Psychologists | $117,670 | Higher in the Denver metropolitan area |
Job Growth and Demand
Colorado's mental health needs create exceptional opportunities for psychologists:
- National Growth Rate: 6% through 2034 (faster than average for all occupations)
- Colorado-Specific Growth: 17.6% projected growth through 2032 for clinical, counseling, and school psychologists (Colorado Department of Labor and Employment)
- High-Need Areas: Rural counties and underserved communities offer loan forgiveness programs and signing bonuses
- Employment Settings: Private practice, hospitals, community mental health centers, schools, government agencies, and universities
Factors Influencing Salary
Your earning potential depends on several factors:
- Location: Denver and Boulder metro areas offer 15-25% higher salaries than rural areas
- Specialization: Neuropsychology, forensic psychology, and I-O psychology typically command premium rates
- Practice Setting: Private practice and government positions generally pay more than school settings
- Experience Level: Significant salary increases occur around years 5, 10, and 15 of practice
- Additional Certifications: Board certification in specialties increases earning potential
Those interested in exploring various psychology careers will find that Colorado's diverse healthcare landscape offers opportunities across multiple specializations.
Alternative Mental Health Career Paths in Colorado
If the decade-long commitment to becoming a psychologist feels overwhelming, Colorado offers several alternative mental health career paths with shorter training periods.
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Education Required: Master's degree in counseling
- Timeline: 6-7 years total (4 years bachelor's + 2-3 years master's)
- Supervised Hours: 2,000-4,000 hours, depending on license level
- Median Salary in Colorado: $51,800-$70,910
LPCs provide counseling and psychotherapy but cannot conduct psychological testing or use the title "psychologist." Learn more about becoming a licensed counselor in Colorado.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
- Education Required: Master's degree in marriage and family therapy
- Timeline: 6-7 years total
- Supervised Hours: 1,000 direct client contact hours
- Median Salary in Colorado: $68,270 (highest among master's-level counselors)
MFTs specialize in relationship and family systems therapy. For detailed requirements, see Becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Colorado.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Education Required: Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Timeline: 6-7 years total
- Supervised Hours: 3,360 hours post-MSW
- Median Salary in Colorado: $55,000-$75,000
LCSWs provide therapy and connect clients with community resources and social services.
| Credential | Education Level | Total Years | Can Diagnose | Can Conduct Psychological Testing | Insurance Reimbursement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychologist (PhD/PsyD) | Doctoral | 8-10+ | Yes | Yes | Full |
| LPC | Master's | 6-7 | Yes | Limited | Full |
| LMFT | Master's | 6-7 | Yes | Limited | Full |
| LCSW | Master's | 6-7 | Yes | Limited | Full |
Note: While LPCs, LMFTs, and LCSWs can diagnose mental health conditions under Colorado law, psychologists have a broader scope for comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a PhD or PsyD to become a psychologist in Colorado?
You need either a PhD or PsyD from an APA-accredited program (or substantially equivalent program). A master's degree alone does not qualify you for psychology licensure in Colorado. Both doctoral degrees lead to full licensure with the exact scope of practice.
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Colorado?
The complete process typically takes 8-10 years: 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 4-7 years for a doctoral program (depending on PhD vs PsyD), and 1-2 years for post-doctoral supervised experience. Some students complete the process faster with accelerated programs or prior graduate credits.
Does Colorado have reciprocity with other states for psychologist licenses?
Colorado does not offer automatic reciprocity with other states. However, you can apply for licensure by endorsement if you're already licensed in another jurisdiction. You must demonstrate that your credentials meet Colorado's education and experience requirements and pass the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination. You may be exempt from retaking the EPPP if you've already passed it in another state and meet specific Board criteria.
Can I practice as a psychologist while completing my supervised hours?
Yes, but only under the Psychologist Candidate or Provisional Psychologist credential. You must work under the direct supervision of a licensed psychologist and cannot practice independently. You may use the title "Psychologist Candidate" but not "Psychologist" until you receive full licensure.
What's the difference between a psychologist and a licensed professional counselor in Colorado?
Psychologists hold doctoral degrees and have comprehensive training in psychological assessment, testing, and diagnosis. They can administer a full range of psychological and neuropsychological tests. Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) hold master's degrees and can also diagnose mental health conditions under Colorado law, but have a more limited scope for psychological testing. Psychologists are trained in research methods and can work in academia. Both credentials allow independent practice and insurance billing for psychotherapy services.
How much does the EPPP exam cost, and how long should I study?
The EPPP costs approximately $850 for the base exam fee (as of 2025), with possible additional fees for registration, rescheduling, or late applications. Most candidates study 3-6 months using commercial review courses, practice exams, and study groups. The exam covers eight content areas with 225 multiple-choice questions. Colorado typically requires a scaled score of 500 to pass.
Are there loan forgiveness programs for psychologists in Colorado?
Yes, several programs exist for psychologists working in underserved areas. The National Health Service Corps offers loan repayment for mental health professionals serving in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs). Colorado also has state-specific programs for providers working in rural counties or with underserved populations. These programs can forgive $20,000-$50,000 in student loans.
Key Takeaways
- Colorado requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program, not just a master's degree, for psychology licensure.e
- You must complete 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised experience as a Psychologist Candidate before obtaining full licensure.
- Two examinations are required: the national EPPP and the Colorado Mental Health Jurisprudence Examination.n
- The complete timeline from bachelor's degree to licensure typically spans 8-10 years
- Colorado psychologists earn substantial salaries, with a median of around $98,773, ranking second nationally for clinical psychologist compensation.
- The state projects 20.1% job growth for clinical psychologists, which is well above the national average and driven by significant mental health needs.
- Alternative career paths like LPC and LMFT require only master's degrees and 6-7 years total, offering faster entry into mental health practice.
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career in Colorado?
Explore accredited doctoral programs that meet Colorado's rigorous licensing requirements. Find programs by location, specialization, and degree type to begin your journey toward becoming a licensed psychologist.
Schools with Degree Programs Accepting Students from Colorado
Additional Psychology Resources for Colorado
- Colorado Counselor Licensing
- Colorado Social Work Licensing
- Colorado Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
- Explore Additional Psychologist Careers
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job growth projections for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists, Industrial-Organizational Psychologists, School Psychologists, and Psychologists-All Other are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
