How to Become a Licensed Psychologist in Connecticut
To become a licensed psychologist in Connecticut, you need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an accredited program, one year of supervised professional experience (3,000 hours), a passing score of 500+ on the EPPP exam, and must pass the Connecticut Jurisprudence exam. The complete process typically takes 9-13 years after high school.
Connecticut maintains rigorous standards for psychology licensure, ensuring that mental health professionals meet the highest qualifications before practicing independently. If you're considering a career as a licensed psychologist in Connecticut, understanding the education requirements, supervised experience mandates, and examination processes is essential for planning your professional journey.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of becoming a licensed psychologist in Connecticut, from selecting your doctoral program to passing your licensure exams and launching your career. Whether you're just starting your undergraduate degree or you're already in graduate school, you'll find the detailed information you need to navigate Connecticut's licensure pathway successfully.
Table of Contents
Education Requirements for Connecticut Psychologists
Connecticut requires all aspiring psychologists to complete a doctoral degree in psychology from an approved or accredited institution. While a master's degree in psychology is an important milestone, it doesn't meet Connecticut's requirements for independent practice as a licensed psychologist.
Your educational journey begins with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, which typically takes four years to complete. During your undergraduate years, focus on building a strong foundation in research methods, statistics, and core psychology coursework. Maintain a competitive GPA, as doctoral programs are highly selective.
After completing your bachelor's degree, you'll need to apply to doctoral programs in psychology. Connecticut accepts both research-focused PhD programs and clinical practice-oriented PsyD programs. The doctoral phase typically requires 4-7 years of study, depending on your program structure, dissertation requirements, and whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Students interested in exploring psychology programs in Connecticut can review Connecticut psychology schools and degree options to understand the various pathways available throughout the state.
Understanding Your Doctoral Degree Options
Connecticut recognizes two types of doctoral degrees for psychology licensure: the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD). While both degrees qualify you for licensure, they emphasize different aspects of the field and prepare you for different career trajectories.
PhD vs PsyD: Key Differences
| Aspect | PhD in Psychology | PsyD in Psychology |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Research and academic scholarship | Clinical practice and patient care |
| Typical Duration | 5-7 years | 4-6 years |
| Dissertation | Extensive original research required | Shorter applied research project |
| Clinical Training | Moderate clinical hours | Extensive clinical hours |
| Best For | Academic careers, research positions, clinical practice | Clinical practice, healthcare settings, private practice |
| Funding | Often funded through assistantships | Typically requires student loans |
A PhD program is ideal if you're interested in conducting research, teaching at the university level, or combining clinical work with academic pursuits. PhD students complete extensive original research and defend a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. Many PhD programs offer teaching and research assistantships that provide tuition remission and stipends.
A PsyD program focuses primarily on clinical training and prepares you for direct patient care. PsyD students complete more clinical practicum hours than PhD students and write shorter, practice-focused dissertations. This degree is the best choice if you plan to work primarily as a clinician in private practice, hospitals, or mental health clinics.
Both degree paths qualify you for full psychology licensure in Connecticut and allow you to diagnose and treat mental health disorders independently. For more information about doctoral psychology programs nationwide, explore program structures, specializations, and application requirements.
Supervised Experience and Training Requirements
After earning your doctoral degree, Connecticut requires one year of supervised professional experience before you can apply for licensure. You have two options for completing this requirement:
Full-Time Option: Complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience across 12 consecutive months working full-time (minimum 35 hours per week).
Part-Time Option: Complete 3,000 hours of supervised experience across 24 consecutive months working part-time (minimum 17.5 hours per week).
Supervision Requirements
Connecticut enforces specific restrictions on your supervised experience to ensure quality training:
- Your supervisor must be a licensed psychologist in good standing
- The supervised experience must align with your intended area of practice (clinical, counseling, school psychology, etc.)
- You must receive regular face-to-face supervision throughout your training period
- Your experience should include direct patient contact and psychological services
Plan your supervised experience carefully, as this requirement can't be waived or substituted. Many newly graduated psychologists complete their supervised hours through post-doctoral fellowships, hospital positions, or community mental health centers that specifically hire psychology residents.
Licensing Examination Requirements
Connecticut requires two examinations for psychology licensure: the national EPPP exam and the Connecticut Jurisprudence exam.
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
The EPPP is a standardized national examination that tests your knowledge of psychology foundations, assessment, intervention, and professional ethics. Connecticut requires a minimum score of 500 out of 800 to pass.
The EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions covering eight content areas:
- Biological bases of behavior
- Cognitive-affective bases of behavior
- Social and cultural bases of behavior
- Growth and lifespan development
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Treatment, intervention, and prevention
- Research methods and statistics
- Ethical, legal, and professional issues
You can take the EPPP after completing your doctoral degree and before or during your supervised experience. Many candidates prepare for 3-6 months using study materials from ASPPB or commercial prep courses.
Connecticut Jurisprudence Exam
After passing the EPPP, you must also pass Connecticut's Jurisprudence exam, which tests your knowledge of state-specific laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing psychology practice in Connecticut. This exam ensures you understand Connecticut's professional standards and legal requirements.
The Jurisprudence exam covers Connecticut statutes, regulations from the Connecticut Board of Psychology, scope of practice limitations, mandatory reporting requirements, and professional conduct standards. You can schedule this exam through the Connecticut Department of Public Health after submitting your licensure application.
Step-by-Step Path to Licensure
Here's your complete roadmap to becoming a licensed psychologist in Connecticut:
Timeline Overview
| Step | Timeframe | Key Milestones |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | Complete psychology major, maintain a strong GPA, and gain research experience |
| 2. Doctoral Program | 4-7 years | Earn a PhD or PsyD, complete a dissertation, and finish practicum requirements |
| 3. Supervised Experience | 1-2 years | Complete 3,000 supervised hours under a licensed psychologist |
| 4. EPPP Exam | 3-6 months prep | Score 500+ on the national psychology exam |
| 5. CT Jurisprudence Exam | 1-2 months | Pass the Connecticut law and ethics examination |
| 6. Licensure Application | 2-4 months | Submit application, undergo background check, receive license |
Total Time: The complete journey from starting your bachelor's degree to receiving your Connecticut psychology license typically takes 9-13 years.
Detailed Steps
Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field. Take coursework in research methods, statistics, abnormal psychology, and developmental psychology.
Step 2: Apply to accredited doctoral programs in psychology. Prepare for the GRE, gather strong letters of recommendation, and write compelling personal statements highlighting your research interests and clinical goals.
Step 3: Complete your doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD). Engage in coursework, practicum experiences, research, and dissertation writing.
Step 4: Secure a supervised experience position in your specialty area. Many graduates complete post-doctoral residencies or fellowships.
Step 5: Register for and pass the EPPP examination. Study systematically using official prep materials.
Step 6: Pass the Connecticut Jurisprudence examination after reviewing Connecticut's laws and regulations.
Step 7: Submit your licensure application to the Connecticut Board of Psychology with all required documentation, including transcripts, supervised experience verification, and exam scores.
Step 8: Receive your license and begin practicing as an independent psychologist in Connecticut.
Career Outlook and Salary in Connecticut
Connecticut offers competitive compensation for licensed psychologists, with salaries varying based on specialization, experience level, and work setting.
Connecticut Psychologist Salaries
According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data from May 2024, mental health professionals in Connecticut earn competitive salaries. Clinical and counseling psychologists in Connecticut typically earn between $70,000 for entry-level positions and over $150,000 for experienced practitioners in the top 10% of earners.
Salaries vary significantly based on several factors:
- Specialization: Clinical psychologists, school psychologists, and industrial-organizational psychologists command different salary ranges
- Work Setting: Private practice, hospitals, schools, and government agencies offer different compensation structures
- Experience Level: Entry-level psychologists earn less than those with 10+ years of experience
- Geographic Location: Metropolitan areas like Hartford, New Haven, and Stamford typically offer higher salaries than rural regions
Connecticut's cost of living is higher than the national average, but psychology salaries generally reflect this difference. The state's strong healthcare infrastructure and established mental health services create a steady demand for qualified psychologists.
Employment Outlook
The demand for psychologists continues to grow in Connecticut and nationwide. Mental health awareness, increased insurance coverage for mental health services, and growing recognition of psychological factors in overall health all contribute to strong job prospects.
Connecticut psychologists work in diverse settings, including:
- Private practice (individual or group practices)
- Hospitals and medical centers
- Community mental health centers
- School districts and universities
- Veterans Affairs facilities
- Correctional facilities
- Corporate and consulting firms
- Research institutions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice psychology in Connecticut with only a master's degree?
No, Connecticut doesn't allow independent practice as a psychologist with only a master's degree. You need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) to become a licensed psychologist. However, you can practice as a licensed professional counselor or marriage and family therapist with a master's degree. Learn more about Connecticut counselor licensing requirements if you're interested in master's-level practice.
How long does the Connecticut licensure application process take?
After you submit your complete application with all required documentation, the Connecticut Board of Psychology typically processes applications within 2-4 months. Processing times can vary based on the board's workload and whether your application requires additional review. Submit your application as soon as you've completed all requirements to minimize delays.
Does Connecticut accept psychology licenses from other states?
Connecticut doesn't have automatic reciprocity with other states, but you may be eligible for licensure by endorsement if you hold an active license in another state. You'll still need to pass the Connecticut Jurisprudence exam and meet Connecticut's specific requirements. Contact the Connecticut Board of Psychology to discuss your individual situation and determine which requirements you can waive based on your existing license.
What's the pass rate for the EPPP exam?
The national EPPP pass rate varies by year but typically ranges from 70-80% for first-time test-takers. Connecticut requires a score of 500 out of 800, which is the most common passing score nationwide. Adequate preparation significantly improves your chances of passing on the first attempt. Most candidates study for 3-6 months using structured prep materials.
Do I need to complete my supervised hours in Connecticut?
No, you can complete your supervised experience in any state as long as your supervision meets Connecticut's requirements. Your supervisor must be a licensed psychologist, and your experience must align with your intended practice area. If you complete supervision out of state, ensure your supervisor understands and documents your hours according to Connecticut's standards to avoid complications during the application process.
What continuing education is required to maintain my Connecticut psychology license?
Connecticut requires licensed psychologists to complete continuing education to renew their licenses. Requirements may change, so always verify current standards with the Connecticut Board of Psychology. Continuing education ensures you stay current with best practices, new treatment approaches, and evolving ethical standards throughout your career.
Key Takeaways
- Connecticut requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an accredited program for psychology licensure, not just a master's degree
- You must complete one year (3,000 hours) of supervised professional experience under a licensed psychologist in your specialty area
- Pass two exams: the national EPPP (minimum score 500) and the Connecticut Jurisprudence exam covering state laws and ethics
- The complete path from bachelor's degree to licensure typically takes 9-13 years and represents a significant educational investment
- Connecticut psychologists earn competitive salaries, with experienced practitioners in top specialties earning over $150,000 annually
- Strong job prospects exist across diverse settings, from private practice to hospitals, schools, and research institutions
Ready to Start Your Journey as a Connecticut Psychologist?
Explore accredited doctoral psychology programs that align with your career goals and specialty interests.
Additional Connecticut Mental Health Career Resources
Interested in related mental health careers in Connecticut? Explore these additional licensing guides:
- Connecticut Licensed Professional Counselor Requirements
- Connecticut Social Work Licensing Process
- Connecticut Marriage and Family Therapist Licensing
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, Psychiatric Techs, Psychiatrists; Substance Abuse, Behavioral Health and Mental Health Counselors; Marriage & Family Therapists; and Social Workers are based on state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
