When is a school psychologist not a school psychologist? Perhaps when the American Psychological Association says so. And the national group may be saying so very soon.
The APA is considering changes to the language in its Model Act for State Licensure, which would restrict the use of the title “psychologist” to individuals with doctoral degrees who are licensed by their state psychology licensing board. The Model Act is intended to provide direction to state boards and state legislatures on who qualifies to be a “psychologist.” Since 1987, school psychologists have been exempted from the doctoral degree requirement. The proposed change would significantly impact the school psychologists’ title and/or practice, depending on state licensing laws and regulations.
CASP is joining the National Association of School Psychologists in opposing these changes. APA’s formal comment period runs until October 31. We are asking all CASP members and other stakeholders, such as teachers, parents, school psychology students, trainers, all pupil services personnel and school administrators to take the following survey to help us inform APA of the havoc such a change could cause. Please ask these stakeholders to join CASP in opposing the proposed changes. To view the survey results click here.
Need more information on how this proposal could change your job? Click here for a fact sheet.
CASP Members: Want to send a letter to the APA opposing the proposed change to the Model Act? Click here for CASP’s sample letter.
Not a school psychologist but want to become involved? Click here for sample letters from:
To send an e-mail version please click here.
Suggested Talking Points Doctoral Level School Psychologists and APA Members
Thanks for getting involved. Help us ensure that school psychologists are still school psychologists.
