How to Become a Psychologist in Georgia
To become a licensed psychologist in Georgia, you must complete a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology from an APA-accredited program, finish a 2,000-hour APA-approved predoctoral internship, gain 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised work experience (including 500 hours of direct client contact), and pass three examinations: the EPPP, Georgia Jurisprudence Exam, and an oral examination before the Board. The entire process typically takes 10-12 years from a bachelor's degree to full licensure.
Becoming a psychologist in Georgia is a rewarding career path that requires significant educational commitment and clinical training. Georgia's licensing requirements align with national standards while maintaining specific state regulations through the Georgia State Board of Examiners of Psychologists.
With growing demand for mental health services, Georgia offers strong career prospects for licensed psychologists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, psychologists in Georgia can expect competitive salaries and diverse career opportunities across clinical, educational, and organizational settings.
Table of Contents
- Education Requirements for Georgia Psychologists
- Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD
- Predoctoral Internship Requirements
- Post-Doctoral Supervised Experience
- The EPPP Examination Process
- Licensure Application Process
- Salary and Career Outlook in Georgia
- Psychology Specialization Options
- Continuing Education Requirements
- Frequently Asked Questions
Education Requirements for Georgia Psychologists
Georgia requires all practicing psychologists to hold a doctoral degree in psychology or a closely related field from an APA-accredited institution. This is a non-negotiable requirement that distinguishes psychologists from other mental health professionals.
Your educational journey begins with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field. While not required to major in psychology at the undergraduate level, this foundation provides essential preparation for graduate study. Most successful applicants have completed coursework in statistics, research methods, abnormal psychology, and developmental psychology.
After completing your bachelor's degree, you'll need to pursue doctoral-level education. Georgia accepts both PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) degrees from APA-accredited programs. Important: Georgia has an academic residency requirement and does not accept degrees obtained via videoconferencing or from online-only programs. The doctoral program must include three full-time years of academic study in addition to your predoctoral internship.
| Education Stage | Duration | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | A psychology or related major is recommended |
| Doctoral Program | 5-7 years | PhD or PsyD from an APA-accredited program with academic residency |
| Predoctoral Internship | 1 year (2,000 hours) | APA-approved site with 500+ hours of direct client contact |
| Post-Doctoral Supervision | 11-24 months | 1,500 hours of supervised work experience |
The total timeline from starting your bachelor's degree to obtaining full licensure typically spans 10-12 years. This extensive training ensures that licensed psychologists possess the expertise needed to provide competent mental health services.
Choosing Between a PhD and PsyD
One of the most important decisions in your psychology education is selecting between a PhD and PsyD program. Both degrees qualify you for licensure in Georgia, but they differ significantly in focus, training emphasis, and career preparation.
PhD in Psychology
The PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) emphasizes research, theory, and the scientific foundations of psychology. These programs train you to be both a practitioner and a researcher, preparing you for careers in academia, research institutions, and clinical practice.
PhD programs typically require completion of a dissertation based on original research that contributes new knowledge to the field. Students often receive funding through teaching assistantships or research positions. The program length averages 5-7 years, with significant time devoted to research methodology and statistical analysis.
PsyD in Psychology
The PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) focuses primarily on clinical practice and applied psychology. These programs emphasize hands-on clinical training, preparing you for direct patient care in various settings.
PsyD programs require a shorter dissertation or doctoral project compared to PhD programs. Students typically self-fund their education, though some programs offer limited financial aid. The program length generally runs 4-6 years, with more extensive clinical practicum requirements.
| Comparison Factor | PhD in Psychology | PsyD in Psychology |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Research and science | Clinical practice |
| Program Length | 5-7 years | 4-6 years |
| Dissertation | Original research required | Applied project or shorter dissertation |
| Funding | Often fully funded | Typically self-funded |
| Career Path | Academia, research, clinical | Clinical practice focused |
| Average Debt | $50,000-$80,000 | $150,000-$250,000 |
When choosing between these paths, consider your long-term career goals. If you're passionate about research, teaching, or developing new therapeutic approaches, a PhD may be the better fit. If you want to focus exclusively on providing clinical services, a PsyD offers more direct preparation for practice.
For more information about psychology degree programs in Georgia, explore accredited options that align with your career objectives.
Predoctoral Internship Requirements
Georgia requires completion of a 2,000-hour predoctoral internship during your doctoral program. This intensive supervised clinical experience is essential for developing practical skills and applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
Your internship must be completed at an APA-approved site or meet equivalent standards set by the Georgia State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. The internship typically occurs during your final year of doctoral study and requires full-time commitment for 12 months (or part-time equivalent over a longer period).
Specific Internship Requirements:
Total Hours Required: You must complete 2,000 hours of supervised predoctoral internship experience. This is a mandatory component of your doctoral training and cannot be waived.
Direct Client Contact: At least 500 hours of your 2,000-hour internship must involve direct client contact. This includes assessment, psychotherapy, counseling, and other face-to-face clinical services with patients.
APA-Accredited Sites: Internships at APA-accredited facilities automatically meet Georgia's requirements. These competitive placements offer structured training with experienced supervisors across diverse clinical populations.
Supervision Standards: Your internship supervisor must be a licensed psychologist who provides regular face-to-face supervision. The supervision structure must meet both your program's requirements and Georgia Board standards.
Timing: The predoctoral internship is typically completed as part of your doctoral program, often in the final year. This experience counts toward your total supervised training but is separate from the post-doctoral supervision requirement.
Post-Doctoral Supervised Experience
After earning your doctorate, Georgia requires 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised work experience (PDSWE) before you're eligible for licensure. This requirement ensures you've gained sufficient practical experience under the guidance of licensed professionals after completing your formal education.
Post-Doctoral Supervision Requirements:
Total Hours Required: You must complete 1,500 hours of supervised work experience. This is in addition to the 2,000 hours completed during your predoctoral internship.
Timeframe: The 1,500 hours must be completed within 11 to 24 months. This ensures continuous professional development during your early career while allowing flexibility in your work schedule.
Direct Client Contact: At least 500 of your 1,500 hours must involve direct client contact. This includes assessment, psychotherapy, counseling, and other face-to-face clinical services.
Supervision Ratio: You need one hour of individual supervision for every 30 hours of supervised work experience (except for industrial/organizational psychology candidates, who may have different requirements). This ensures adequate oversight and professional development.
Supervisor Qualifications: Your supervisor must be a psychologist currently licensed by the Georgia Board or licensed in another state whose licensure standards meet or exceed Georgia's requirements. The supervisor must have appropriate expertise in your area of practice.
Acceptable Supervised Activities:
| Activity Type | Counts Toward Hours | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Client Contact | Yes (500+ required) | Therapy sessions, assessments, counseling |
| Case Consultation | Yes | Treatment planning, case reviews |
| Report Writing | Yes | Assessment reports, treatment notes |
| Supervision Meetings | Yes | Individual and group supervision sessions |
| Administrative Work | Limited | Only if clinically related |
You must maintain detailed logs of all supervised hours, including dates, activities, and supervisor verification. The Georgia Board may audit these records during the application process.
The EPPP Examination Process
The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) is a nationally standardized exam required for psychology licensure across the United States, including Georgia. Georgia is an early adopter of the two-part EPPP format, requiring candidates to pass both the EPPP Part 1 (knowledge exam) and EPPP Part 2 (skills exam).
EPPP Exam Details:
EPPP Part 1 (Knowledge Exam): This computer-based exam consists of 225 multiple-choice questions covering eight content areas of psychology. You'll have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete the exam.
EPPP Part 2 (Skills Exam): Georgia requires this additional component, which assesses practical skills through clinical scenarios and case-based questions.
Content Areas Tested: The exam assesses your knowledge across biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases, social and multicultural bases, growth and lifespan development, assessment and diagnosis, treatment and intervention, research methods, and ethical and legal issues.
Passing Score: Georgia requires a scaled score of 500 out of 800 points on the EPPP Part 1. This passing score is set by the Georgia State Board and may differ from other states' requirements.
Application Process: After the Georgia Board approves your application for licensure, you'll receive authorization to schedule your EPPP exam through the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
Exam Fees: The EPPP exam costs $600 for Part 1, plus additional fees for Part 2 and any score transfers if needed. These fees are separate from your Georgia licensure application costs.
Preparing for the EPPP:
Most successful candidates spend 3-6 months preparing for the EPPP using study materials from commercial prep companies. Many Georgia psychology programs offer study groups or guidance for exam preparation. Consider using practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and identify areas needing additional study.
Licensure Application Process
Once you've completed all educational requirements, supervised experience, and passed the EPPP, you can submit your application for licensure to the Georgia State Board of Examiners of Psychologists.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Initiate Your Application: When you have completed your supervised work experience or have less than one year until completion, submit the Application Initiation Form with a $100 fee. This form requires personal background information and details about your education and training.
- Complete the PLUS Application: After submitting your initial application, the Association of State & Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) will send you instructions for completing the Psychology Licensure Universal System (PLUS) online application. Submit this application with an additional $200 fee paid directly to ASPPB.
- Submit Official Transcripts: Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities you've attended, including your doctoral institution. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institutions to the Georgia Board through ASPPB.
- Provide Supervision Documentation: Submit verification forms from all supervisors, documenting your 2,000 predoctoral internship hours and 1,500 hours of post-doctoral experience. Include detailed breakdowns of direct client contact hours.
- Pass Background Check: Complete fingerprinting for criminal background checks. Georgia requires all license applicants to undergo state and federal background screenings.
- Pass the EPPP Examination: After ASPPB verifies your application, the Georgia Board will notify you that you're eligible to schedule the EPPP. You must pass both Part 1 and Part 2 of the exam.
- Take Georgia Jurisprudence Exam: After passing the EPPP, you'll receive information to register for the Georgia Psychology Jurisprudence (Laws & Rules) Examination, administered by PSI Exams LLC. The exam fee is $85 and covers topics including competence, professional relationships, licensing regulations, privacy, recordkeeping, and fees.
- Complete Oral Examination: Once you've achieved passing scores on both the EPPP and Jurisprudence exams, contact the Board to schedule your Oral Examination. This approximately 30-minute exam covers diagnostic skills, intervention skills, awareness of limitations, professional ethical principles, and knowledge of Georgia law. You'll also discuss a Quality of Work Sample that you provide.
When you have achieved passing scores on all three examinations and submitted all required supporting documentation, you can expect to receive approval of your application within 20 days.
Salary and Career Outlook in Georgia
Georgia offers competitive compensation for licensed psychologists, with salaries varying based on specialization, experience, and geographic location within the state.
Current Salary Data (May 2024 - National Data):
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for psychologists nationally was $94,310 in May 2024. While Georgia-specific data shows variation, psychologists in the state demonstrate strong earning potential, particularly at higher experience levels.
| Percentile | Annual Salary (National) | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,860 | $26.37 |
| 25th Percentile | $70,180 | $33.74 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $94,310 | $45.34 |
| 75th Percentile | $121,470 | $58.40 |
| 90th Percentile | $157,330 | $75.64 |
Salary by Specialization (May 2024 - National Data):
Different psychology specializations command varying salary ranges. Industrial-organizational psychologists typically earn the highest median salaries, while school psychologists earn less but often enjoy better work-life balance with standard school year schedules.
| Specialization | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Industrial-Organizational Psychologists | $109,840 |
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $95,830 |
| School Psychologists | $86,930 |
| All Other Psychologists | $117,120 |
Job Growth Outlook (Projected 2024-2034):
Employment of psychologists is projected to grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increased awareness of mental health issues and greater demand for psychological services across healthcare, schools, and organizational settings.
Georgia's growing population and expanding healthcare infrastructure create particularly strong opportunities for psychologists. The Atlanta metropolitan area offers the highest concentration of psychology positions, while rural areas experience shortages that may translate to recruitment incentives.
Top Employment Settings in Georgia:
Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, clinics, and private practices employ the largest number of psychologists. These settings typically offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.
Educational Institutions: Schools and universities provide stable employment with academic calendars. School psychologists work with K-12 students, while faculty positions involve teaching and research.
Government Agencies: Federal, state, and local government positions offer excellent benefits and job security. Veterans Affairs facilities consistently seek qualified psychologists.
Private Practice: Many experienced psychologists establish independent practices, offering flexibility and higher earning potential once established. Private practice requires business management skills and an initial investment.
Psychology Specialization Options
Georgia's diverse population and economy support various psychology specializations. Your choice of specialization significantly impacts your career path, work environment, and earning potential.
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. This is the most common specialization, offering opportunities in hospitals, clinics, and private practice. Learn more about becoming a clinical psychologist to determine if this path aligns with your interests.
Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychologists help individuals deal with everyday life challenges and transitions. They focus on strength-based approaches and typically work with clients experiencing less severe mental health issues compared to clinical settings.
School Psychology
School psychologists work in educational settings, supporting student learning, behavior, and mental health. Georgia school districts consistently seek qualified school psychologists, often offering loan forgiveness programs for rural placements.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology
I-O psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace issues, including employee selection, training, and organizational development. Atlanta's corporate presence creates a strong demand for I-O psychologists, with above-average salaries in this specialization.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychologists assess and treat patients with brain injuries or neurological conditions. This specialty requires additional postdoctoral training but commands premium salaries in medical settings.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychologists work at the intersection of psychology and law, conducting evaluations for legal proceedings. Georgia's court system and correctional facilities employ forensic psychologists for assessments and treatment.
Continuing Education Requirements
Georgia requires licensed psychologists to complete continuing education (CE) to maintain their licenses. These requirements ensure psychologists stay current with evolving research, treatment methods, and ethical standards.
Georgia CE Requirements:
Total Hours Required: Licensed psychologists must complete 40 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every two years for license renewal.
Ethics Training: At least 6 of your 40 CE hours must focus on professional ethics, and these must be earned at workshops that you attend in person (not through self-instructional courses).
Self-Instructional Limit: A maximum of 10 of the 40 hours may be completed through self-instructional courses (Area V designation). The remaining 30 hours must be from interactive formats.
Approved Providers: CE courses must be offered by APA-approved sponsors or other providers recognized by the Georgia Board. Online CE courses are acceptable if from approved providers and don't exceed the self-instructional limit.
Documentation: Maintain certificates of completion for all CE activities. The Georgia Board may audit your CE compliance during renewal.
Renewal Cycle: Georgia psychology licenses renew every two years, from January 1 of odd-numbered years through December 31 of even-numbered years. The renewal fee is $250.
Common CE Topics:
Popular continuing education topics include evidence-based treatment approaches, cultural competency, assessment methods, telehealth practice, and suicide prevention. Many Georgia psychologists combine CE requirements with professional conference attendance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Georgia?
The complete process typically takes 10-12 years from starting your bachelor's degree to obtaining full licensure. This includes 4 years for your bachelor's degree, 5-7 years for doctoral training (including the predoctoral internship), and 11-24 months of post-doctoral supervised experience. The timeline can vary based on program format and whether you attend full-time.
Can I practice psychology in Georgia with a master's degree?
No, Georgia requires a doctoral degree to use the title "psychologist" and practice psychology independently. Master's-level professionals can work in related fields such as licensed professional counseling, marriage and family therapy, or as psychological associates under supervision.
Does Georgia accept psychology licenses from other states?
Georgia offers licensure by endorsement for psychologists licensed in other states, but does not participate in automatic reciprocity agreements. If you hold a valid license in another state whose standards meet or exceed Georgia's requirements, you can apply for licensure by endorsement. You'll still need to pass Georgia's jurisprudence exam and oral examination, though the EPPP requirement may be waived if you've already passed it.
What's the difference between licensure by endorsement and reciprocity?
Licensure by endorsement means Georgia will review your out-of-state credentials individually and may grant you a license if your state's requirements meet or exceed Georgia's standards. You'll still need to pass Georgia-specific exams. Reciprocity would mean automatic license transfer, which Georgia does not offer. Each endorsement application is evaluated case-by-case.
Can I get a Georgia psychology license if my degree is from an online program?
No. Georgia has an academic residency requirement and does not accept doctoral degrees obtained via videoconferencing or from online-only programs. Your doctoral program must include three full-time years of academic study completed in person at an APA-accredited institution.
How much does the Georgia psychology license application cost?
The total application costs include: $100 for the Application Initiation Form, $200 for the ASPPB PLUS application, $600 for the EPPP exam, $85 for the Georgia Jurisprudence Examination, plus additional costs for background checks and transcript fees. Expect to pay approximately $1,000-$1,200 in total application and examination fees.
Can I complete my supervised hours while working full-time?
Yes, you can accumulate your 1,500 post-doctoral hours while working full-time, but you must complete them within 11 to 24 months. Many post-doctoral positions are specifically designed to provide supervised experience while earning a salary. Make sure your supervisor meets Georgia Board requirements before beginning.
What happens if I fail the EPPP exam?
If you don't pass the EPPP on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after a 90-day waiting period. There's no limit to the number of attempts, but you must pay the $600 exam fee each time. Most candidates who don't pass on the first attempt succeed after additional study preparation.
Do I need malpractice insurance to practice in Georgia?
While Georgia doesn't legally require malpractice insurance, it's strongly recommended and often required by employers. Most psychologists carry professional liability insurance ranging from $1-3 million in coverage. The annual cost typically ranges from $1,000-$3,000, depending on your specialty and practice setting.
Can I provide telehealth services as a Georgia-licensed psychologist?
Yes, Georgia-licensed psychologists can provide telehealth services to clients located in Georgia. If you want to provide services to clients in other states, you must hold licensure in those states or participate in interstate compact agreements like PSYPACT when applicable.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program with academic residency, not accepting online-only degrees.
- You must complete 2,000 hours of predoctoral internship (500+ direct client contact) and 1,500 hours of post-doctoral supervised work experience (500+ direct client contact).
- Three examinations are required: EPPP Parts 1 and 2, the Georgia Jurisprudence Exam, and an oral examination before the Board.
- The complete journey from bachelor's degree to full licensure typically takes 10-12 years, including 11-24 months for post-doctoral supervision.
- Post-doctoral supervision requires one hour of individual supervision for every 30 hours of work experience.
- Continuing education requires 40 hours every two years, including 6 hours of in-person ethics training.
- Licensure by endorsement is available for out-of-state psychologists, but automatic reciprocity is not offered.
Ready to Begin Your Psychology Career in Georgia?
Explore accredited psychology doctoral programs that prepare you for Georgia licensure and match your career goals.
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 are based on national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
