What criteria does Pennsylvania use to determine if someone can practice psychology?

In Pennsylvania, the practice of psychology is regulated to ensure that professionals providing these services meet certain standards. The key criterion is that individuals must be licensed to practice psychology. The licensing process requires meeting specific educational and experiential criteria, including obtaining a doctoral degree in psychology, completing a specified amount of supervised professional experience, and passing the relevant examinations.

Additionally, the state provides certain exemptions that allow individuals to engage in specific practices without a full psychology license under defined circumstances. This means that there are alternatives that apply in certain situations, but primarily, a license is necessary to practice legally in Pennsylvania. This approach is designed to protect the public by ensuring that individuals practicing psychology possess the necessary qualifications and adhere to established ethical and professional standards.