Psychologist Degrees in Mississippi - MS

By an allied health world contributing writer
Published: February, 5 2010

There are currently 950 state-employed individuals who hold a psychology degree in Mississippi. These psychologists specialize in a variety of fields such as clinical, counseling, school and industrial psychology (bls.gov). The majority of the salaries for psychologists in Mississippi are reported at 23% above the national average salary (Indeed.com) for psychologists. Neighboring states such as Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Alabama report significantly lower salaries at $43,000, $46,000, $49,000, and $52,000 respectively for clinical psychologists.

Continuing Education for Psychologists in Mississippi

Psychologists practicing in the state of Mississippi are required by the Mississippi Board of Psychology to complete a minimum of twenty (20) continuing education hours in a two (2) year renewal period. A minimum of two (2) of these hours must be in the form of legal issues or professional ethics in the delivery of psychological services. The Board prefers these hours to be either approved by their standards or those of the APA; if not, a maximum of twelve (12) will be allowed through attendance at a non-approved course or training program. Licensees will be asked to sign a compliance form upon licensure renewal, attesting to the fact that they have successfully completed this requirement. Practitioners must retain all their documentation in the event of an audit by the Mississippi Board.

Professional Organizations for Psychologists in Mississippi

While each specialty in psychology may have its own professional association for members, the primary one for those holding a psychology degree in Mississippi is the American Psychological Association (APA). It is responsible for upholding the standards of care for its members and for the profession as a whole. The Mississippi Psychological Association (MAP) is a state affiliate of the APA and functions much the same. Both organizations are operated by a volunteer board of directors and charge membership fees based on categories such as student, practicing professional, and retired professional.

American Psychological Association (APA)

www.apa.org

Mississippi Psychological Association (MPA)

www.mpassoc.org