How to Become a Psychologist in Tennessee
To become a licensed psychologist in Tennessee, you need a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program, complete 1,900 hours of supervised internship during your doctoral training and 2,000 additional hours of post-doctoral supervised experience (3,900 total hours), and pass both the EPPP and Tennessee Jurisprudence Examination. The complete process takes 10-14 years with clinical psychologists earning median salaries of $85,000-$95,000 in Tennessee.
Tennessee offers more than its rich musical heritage and stunning natural landscapes. The state provides excellent opportunities for aspiring psychologists, with a growing mental health workforce and competitive salaries. The path to becoming a licensed psychologist in Tennessee requires dedication, extensive education, and rigorous training, but the career rewards are substantial.
The Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology oversees all psychology licensing in the state, ensuring that practitioners meet high standards of education, experience, and professional competency. Whether you're drawn to clinical psychology, counseling, or specialized practice areas, Tennessee's licensure pathway provides a clear roadmap to professional practice.
Table of Contents
- Education Requirements for Tennessee Psychologists
- Tennessee Doctoral Programs in Psychology
- Supervised Experience Requirements
- Licensing Examinations
- Application Process and Fees
- Psychology Specializations in Tennessee
- Career Outlook and Salary Data
- Maintaining Your Tennessee License
- Frequently Asked Questions
Education Requirements for Tennessee Psychologists
Tennessee law requires aspiring psychologists to complete a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited institution. The Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology accepts programs approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) or designated by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists.
The doctoral degree serves as the foundation for your career as a licensed psychologist. This advanced training provides the theoretical knowledge, research skills, and clinical competencies necessary for independent practice. Most students spend 5-7 years completing their doctoral studies after earning a bachelor's degree.
PhD vs PsyD: Understanding Your Degree Options
Tennessee accepts two types of doctoral degrees for licensure, each with distinct focuses and career pathways:
| Degree Type | Primary Focus | Typical Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) | Research and academia with clinical training | 5-7 years | Those interested in research, teaching, or academic careers |
| PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) | Clinical practice and applied psychology | 4-6 years | Those focused on direct clinical practice |
PhD programs typically include extensive dissertation research and prepare graduates for careers in research, academia, and clinical practice. PsyD programs emphasize clinical training and practical application, making them ideal for students committed to full-time clinical work. Both degrees qualify you for full psychology licensure in Tennessee.
School Psychology Exception
Tennessee makes one important exception to the doctoral requirement. If you're pursuing a career in school psychology, you can become licensed with a specialist-level or master's degree from an approved graduate program in school psychology. Note that school psychology programs may be accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) rather than APA, and Tennessee accepts both accreditation types for school psychologist licensure. This pathway allows you to practice psychology within educational settings without completing a full doctoral degree.
School psychologists work directly with students, teachers, and families to support learning and mental health in K-12 settings. This career path typically requires 3-4 years of graduate study beyond a bachelor's degree.
Tennessee Doctoral Programs in Psychology
Tennessee is home to several universities offering APA-accredited doctoral programs in psychology. These programs provide the education and training required for Tennessee licensure while offering diverse specialization options.
Major Tennessee Programs
The University of Memphis offers APA-accredited PhD programs in Clinical Psychology and School Psychology. The program emphasizes scientist-practitioner training with strong community partnerships throughout Memphis and the Mid-South region.
Vanderbilt University provides PhD training in Clinical Science with concentrations in various areas, including child studies, neuroscience, and quantitative methods. Located in Nashville, Vanderbilt offers access to world-class medical facilities and research opportunities.
University of Tennessee, Knoxville, houses doctoral programs in several psychology areas, providing students with research and clinical training opportunities across Tennessee's flagship university system.
For a comprehensive guide to psychology degree programs in Tennessee, including program details, admission requirements, and career outcomes, explore available options across all degree levels.
Online and Hybrid Options
While most APA-accredited doctoral programs require significant in-person attendance for clinical training and research, some programs offer hybrid formats that blend online coursework with in-person intensives and local practicum placements. When considering any program, verify its APA accreditation status and confirm that Tennessee will accept the degree for licensure.
Supervised Experience Requirements
Tennessee requires extensive supervised clinical experience both during and after your doctoral training. These supervised hours ensure you develop the practical skills necessary for independent practice and meet Tennessee's standards for professional competency.
Pre-Doctoral Internship
During your doctoral program, you must complete a supervised internship lasting at least one year with a minimum of 1,900 hours of supervised clinical experience. This internship typically occurs during your final years of doctoral study and often involves placement at hospitals, clinics, community mental health centers, or other approved clinical settings.
The internship provides hands-on experience with psychological assessment, intervention, consultation, and supervision under licensed psychologists. Many doctoral programs include internships as a degree requirement, and completing an APA-accredited internship strengthens your qualifications.
Post-Doctoral Supervised Experience
After earning your doctoral degree, Tennessee requires an additional year of supervised professional experience. This post-doctoral requirement must include at least 2,000 hours of supervised practice under the guidance of a licensed psychologist. Critically, these 2,000 post-doctoral hours must be completed after you receive your doctoral degree and cannot overlap with your pre-doctoral internship hours.
Your supervisor must be qualified by experience and training to oversee your specific activities and practice areas. The board requires that supervision include both face-to-face individual supervision and oversight of your clinical work. This post-doctoral year bridges the gap between training and independent practice, allowing you to refine your skills under experienced guidance.
Total Experience Summary
| Experience Type | Minimum Hours | Timing | Setting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Doctoral Internship | 1,900 hours | During the doctoral program | APA-accredited site preferred |
| Post-Doctoral Supervised Practice | 2,000 hours | After a doctoral degree | Under a licensed psychologist |
| Total Supervised Experience | 3,900+ hours | Typically 2-3 years | Various clinical settings |
Licensing Examinations
Tennessee requires all psychologist applicants to pass two examinations: a national exam testing core psychology knowledge and a state-specific exam covering Tennessee laws and regulations.
Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP)
The EPPP is a nationally standardized exam administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). This computer-based test evaluates your knowledge across eight content areas of psychology:
- Biological Bases of Behavior
- Cognitive-Affective Bases of Behavior
- Social and Cultural Bases of Behavior
- Growth and Lifespan Development
- Assessment and Diagnosis
- Treatment, Intervention, Prevention, and Supervision
- Research Methods and Statistics
- Ethical, Legal, and Professional Issues
The EPPP consists of 225 multiple-choice questions that you complete within 4.5 hours. Tennessee requires a scaled score of 500 or higher (on a scale of 200-800) to pass. The exam is offered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Tennessee and across the country.
Most candidates spend 2-4 months preparing for the EPPP using study materials, practice exams, and review courses. The ASPPB offers official practice materials, and many commercial prep courses are available. Your doctoral program coursework provides the foundation, but a focused review is essential given the exam's breadth. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam after a 91-day waiting period, paying the full exam fee ($687) each time. There's no limit on the number of retake attempts.
Tennessee Jurisprudence Examination
After passing the EPPP, you must take Tennessee's state-specific Jurisprudence Examination. This exam covers Tennessee laws, regulations, and ethical standards specific to psychology practice in the state. Topics include:
- Tennessee statutes governing psychology practice
- Board rules and regulations
- Professional ethics and conduct standards
- Record-keeping and confidentiality requirements
- Mandatory reporting obligations
- Professional boundaries and dual relationships
- Continuing education requirements
The Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology administers this exam and requires a score of 90% or higher to pass. The exam format and length vary, but it typically includes multiple-choice questions and scenario-based questions. Study materials are available through the board's website and include relevant statutes and regulations.
Exam Costs and Retake Policies
| Examination | Fee | Retake Policy | Score Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPPP | $687 | 91-day wait after failure | 500+ (scaled) |
| Tennessee Jurisprudence | Included in the application | Per board discretion | 90% |
Application Process and Fees
Once you've completed your education, supervised experience, and examinations, you can apply for psychology licensure through the Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology. The application process involves several steps and requires careful documentation.
Required Application Materials
- Completed Application Form: Available on the Tennessee Department of Health website
- Official Transcripts: Sent directly from your doctoral program to the board
- Verification of Internship: Documentation of your 1,900-hour pre-doctoral internship
- Supervised Experience Forms: Detailed logs and supervisor verification of post-doctoral hours
- EPPP Score Report: Official scores sent from ASPPB
- Professional References: Typically 3-5 references from supervisors and colleagues
- Background Check: FBI fingerprint-based criminal background check
- Application Fee: $300-$350 (subject to change)
Application Timeline
The licensing process typically takes 3-6 months from application submission to license issuance, depending on the completeness of your application and board meeting schedules. The board meets quarterly to review applications, so timing your submission strategically can affect your timeline.
License Renewal
Tennessee psychology licenses renew every two years. Renewal requires completion of continuing education requirements (covered below) and payment of renewal fees. Licenses expire on the practitioner's birth month in even or odd years, depending on the initial licensure date.
Psychology Specializations in Tennessee
Tennessee's diverse population and healthcare landscape offer opportunities across numerous psychology specializations. While your initial license qualifies you for general psychology practice, many psychologists pursue additional training and credentials in specialized areas.
Clinical Psychology
Clinical psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders across the lifespan. Tennessee's growing urban centers, including Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, offer clinical positions in hospitals, private practice, community mental health centers, and integrated healthcare settings. Clinical psychologists work with diverse populations addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and serious mental illness.
Counseling Psychology
Counseling psychologists focus on typical developmental issues, life transitions, and adjustment concerns. This specialty emphasizes wellness and prevention while helping individuals navigate relationship issues, career decisions, and personal growth. Many counseling psychologists work in college counseling centers, private practice, or career development settings.
School Psychology
School psychologists support student success through assessment, intervention, and consultation in K-12 settings. As mentioned earlier, Tennessee allows specialist-level or master's degree holders to practice school psychology. This field addresses learning disabilities, behavioral concerns, and social-emotional development in educational environments.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychologists assess and treat individuals with brain injuries, neurological conditions, and cognitive disorders. Tennessee's major medical centers, including Vanderbilt University Medical Center and regional hospitals, employ neuropsychologists for diagnostic assessment and rehabilitation services.
Forensic Psychology
Forensic psychologists apply psychological knowledge to legal and criminal justice settings. They conduct competency evaluations, provide expert testimony, assess risk, and work with corrections populations. Tennessee's court systems and correctional facilities provide opportunities in this specialized field.
Health Psychology
Health psychologists address the intersection of physical health and mental well-being. They work in medical settings, helping patients manage chronic illness, adhere to treatment, and cope with health-related stress. Tennessee's growing healthcare industry creates demand for health psychologists in hospitals and integrated care settings.
Career Outlook and Salary Data
Tennessee offers competitive compensation for licensed psychologists, with salaries varying by specialty, experience, location, and practice setting. The state's growing mental health workforce and expanding healthcare system create strong demand for qualified psychologists.
Tennessee Psychologist Salaries by Specialty
| Specialty Area | Median Salary | Entry Level (25th percentile) | Experienced (75th percentile) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Psychologist | $85,000-$95,000 | $65,000-$72,000 | $105,000-$120,000 |
| Counseling Psychologist | $78,000-$88,000 | $58,000-$68,000 | $95,000-$110,000 |
| School Psychologist | $68,000-$75,000 | $55,000-$62,000 | $80,000-$90,000 |
| Neuropsychologist | $95,000-$110,000 | $75,000-$85,000 | $120,000-$145,000 |
| Industrial-Organizational | $92,000-$105,000 | $70,000-$80,000 | $115,000-$135,000 |
Geographic Variation Within Tennessee
Salaries for psychologists vary significantly across Tennessee's regions. Metropolitan areas, including Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, typically offer higher salaries but also have higher costs of living. Rural areas may offer lower base salaries but often include incentives like loan repayment programs, signing bonuses, and lower living expenses.
Nashville Metro: As Tennessee's capital and largest city, Nashville offers the highest concentration of psychology positions with competitive salaries, particularly in healthcare systems and private practice.
Memphis: The state's second-largest city provides opportunities in medical settings, community mental health, and university-affiliated positions with salaries comparable to Nashville.
Knoxville and Chattanooga: These mid-sized cities offer a balance between competitive salaries and a lower cost of living, with growing demand for mental health services.
Rural Tennessee: Underserved areas throughout Tennessee offer opportunities for psychologists willing to work in community health settings, often with federal loan repayment programs and other incentives.
Employment Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% growth for psychologists nationally through 2032, driven by increased recognition of mental health importance and expanded insurance coverage for psychological services. Tennessee's growth rate exceeds the national average due to population growth in urban areas and increased emphasis on school-based mental health services.
Demand is particularly strong for psychologists who can provide evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse. Integrated care models that embed psychologists in primary care settings create additional opportunities across Tennessee.
Maintaining Your Tennessee License
After earning your Tennessee psychology license, you must maintain it through continuing education and timely renewal. The Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology requires active engagement in professional development to ensure practitioners stay current with evolving research and best practices.
Continuing Education Requirements
Tennessee requires licensed psychologists to complete 40 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years. These hours must include:
- Professional Ethics: Minimum of 3 hours in professional ethics
- Cultural Competency: Training addressing diverse populations
- Evidence-Based Practice: Current research and clinical innovations
- Tennessee-Specific Topics: State laws and regulations updates as needed
The board approves CE providers, including the American Psychological Association, state psychological associations, universities, and other organizations meeting board standards. Online CE courses are acceptable and provide flexibility for busy practitioners.
Renewal Process
License renewal occurs every two years on a schedule based on your birth month and initial licensure date. The renewal process includes:
- Completing 40 hours of approved continuing education
- Submitting a renewal application through the Tennessee Department of Health portal
- Paying renewal fee (currently $200-$250)
- Attesting to CE completion (board may audit and request documentation)
- Confirming no disciplinary actions or ethical violations
The board sends renewal reminders 60 days before expiration, but licensees are responsible for timely renewal even without receiving notice. Practicing on an expired license is illegal and can result in disciplinary action.
Inactive Status and License Reinstatement
If you're not actively practicing in Tennessee, you can request inactive status. This maintains your license record while exempting you from continuing education requirements. Reactivating your license requires completing current CE requirements and paying reactivation fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a licensed psychologist in Tennessee?
The complete timeline from starting your bachelor's degree to Tennessee licensure is typically 10-14 years. This includes 4 years for a bachelor's degree, 5-7 years for doctoral training (including the pre-doctoral internship), 1-2 years of supervised post-doctoral experience, and several months for the application process. If you already have a bachelor's degree when you begin, expect 8-10 years from starting your doctoral program to full licensure.
Can I practice psychology in Tennessee with only a master's degree?
Generally, no. Tennessee requires a doctoral degree for independent psychology practice. The only exception is school psychology, where specialist-level or master's degree holders can become licensed to practice in K-12 educational settings. For clinical or counseling psychology practice, a doctoral degree is mandatory.
However, master's-level practitioners can work in related fields. Consider exploring Tennessee counselor licensing requirements or marriage and family therapist licensure as alternative pathways to mental health practice.
What's the difference between a psychologist and a therapist in Tennessee?
"Psychologist" is a protected title in Tennessee requiring doctoral-level education and state licensure. Psychologists can diagnose mental health conditions, conduct psychological testing, and provide therapy. "Therapist" is a general term that can include psychologists, licensed counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers, each with different education and licensing requirements. Only licensed psychologists can use the title "psychologist" or "psychological" in their practice.
How much does it cost to become licensed as a psychologist in Tennessee?
Total costs include graduate program tuition ($80,000-$200,000+ for doctoral programs, though many offer stipends and funding), EPPP exam fee ($687), application and licensing fees ($300-$400), background check costs ($50-$100), and miscellaneous costs for transcript requests and materials. Many doctoral programs offer tuition waivers, stipends, or assistantships that significantly reduce costs. Factor in living expenses during 5-7 years of doctoral study, plus the post-doctoral year.
Does Tennessee accept out-of-state psychology licenses?
Tennessee offers licensure by endorsement for psychologists already licensed in other states. You must meet Tennessee's education and experience requirements, pass the Tennessee Jurisprudence Examination (required for all endorsement applicants regardless of your current license status), and demonstrate good standing in your current state. If your original state's requirements substantially match Tennessee's, the board may waive the EPPP requirement if you passed it for your original license and meet score requirements. However, the Tennessee Jurisprudence Examination is mandatory for all applicants, including those seeking licensure by endorsement. Contact the Tennessee Board directly to evaluate your specific situation.
Can I do telepsychology in Tennessee?
Yes, licensed Tennessee psychologists can provide telepsychology services to clients physically located in Tennessee. However, you generally cannot provide services to clients in other states unless you hold licensure in those states. The PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact) allows authorized psychologists to practice telepsychology across member states. Tennessee joined PSYPACT, enabling expanded practice privileges for eligible licensees.
What happens if I fail the EPPP exam?
If you don't achieve the required score of 500, you can retake the EPPP after a 91-day waiting period. There's no limit on the number of attempts, though you must pay the full exam fee ($687) each time. Most candidates pass on their first or second attempt with adequate preparation. Use your score report to identify weak content areas and focus your study efforts. Consider investing in commercial prep courses or study groups if you need additional preparation. The unlimited retake policy means you can continue working toward licensure, but strategic preparation is more cost-effective than multiple attempts.
Are there opportunities for psychology license candidates during post-doctoral training?
Yes, Tennessee offers a Psychological Examiner license for doctoral graduates completing supervised post-doctoral experience. This temporary license allows you to practice under supervision while accumulating required hours. It's renewable annually for up to three years while you complete licensure requirements. This designation enables you to gain valuable experience and earn income during the post-doctoral period. Contact the Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology to verify current terminology and application procedures for temporary credentials.
What are the ethics requirements for Tennessee psychologists?
Tennessee psychologists must adhere to the APA Ethics Code as well as Tennessee-specific statutes and board rules. Common ethical issues include maintaining confidentiality, managing dual relationships, obtaining informed consent, keeping accurate records, and practicing within your competence areas. The board takes ethics violations seriously and can impose sanctions, including license suspension or revocation. The mandatory ethics CE requirement ensures practitioners stay current on ethical standards.
Can I maintain a private practice as a licensed psychologist in Tennessee?
Yes, many Tennessee psychologists operate successful private practices. You'll need to meet business licensing requirements, obtain professional liability insurance, establish HIPAA-compliant records systems, and credential with insurance panels if you plan to accept insurance. Private practice offers autonomy and flexibility but requires business management skills. Many psychologists start with part-time private practice while employed elsewhere before transitioning to full-time independent practice.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee requires a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited program for psychology licensure, with an exception for school psychologists who can qualify with master's-level training from NASP-approved or state-approved programs
- Complete supervised experience includes a 1,900-hour pre-doctoral internship plus 2,000 hours of post-doctoral supervised practice (3,900 total hours) that must be completed after receiving your doctoral degree
- Pass both the national EPPP exam (score of 500+ required) and Tennessee's state-specific Jurisprudence Examination (90% passing score). EPPP retakes are unlimited after a 91-day waiting period, with the full fee ($687) due each time
- The complete path from bachelor's degree to licensure typically takes 10-14 years, including 5-7 years of doctoral study (with internship), 1-2 years of supervised post-doctoral work, and several months for application processing
- Clinical psychologists in Tennessee earn median salaries of $85,000-$95,000, with higher earning potential in specialized areas like neuropsychology and industrial-organizational psychology
- Maintain your Tennessee license through 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including required ethics training, and timely biennial renewal
Ready to Start Your Psychology Career in Tennessee?
Explore APA-accredited doctoral programs in Tennessee and take the first step toward becoming a licensed psychologist.
Additional Tennessee Mental Health Career Resources
If you're exploring psychology and related mental health careers in Tennessee, consider these additional licensure pathways:
- Tennessee Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) - Master's-level pathway to mental health practice
- Tennessee Social Work Licensing - LCSW and other social work credentials
- Tennessee Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) - Specializes in relational therapy
- Psychology Career Options - Explore diverse specializations and career paths
- Compare Psychology Licensing Requirements by State - See how Tennessee compares to other states
Official Resources: For the most current information about Tennessee psychology licensing requirements, application procedures, and board regulations, visit the Tennessee Board of Examiners in Psychology. The board provides application forms, statute references, meeting schedules, and direct contact information for specific licensing questions.
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 state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed October 2025.
