Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for clinical and counseling psychologist in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Clinical and Counseling Psychologist in Washington
Estimated timeline: 2-5 monthsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Invididuals must have completed a doctoral degree in psychology from a regionally accredited instituttion, must have one year or 750 hours in residency and a 300 hour practicum, must be able to verify a total of 3,300 hours of supvervision (including pre-internship, intership and post-doctoral supervised experience).
- 6
Individuals must provide a work history for the time subsequent to receipt of degree.
- 7
Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$115,050 median (20% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Clinical and Counseling Psychologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must submit application and pay required fee.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $115,050, Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Washington earn 20% above the national median of $95,830. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 2-5 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$115,050Hourly estimate
$55.3120% above national median
Difference: +$19,220
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationClinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary Ranking
#4 of 50 statesfor Clinical and Counseling Psychologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Oregon | $132,550 |
| #2 | Colorado | $126,260 |
| #3 | Kentucky | $116,480 |
| #4 | Washington | $115,050 |
| #5 | California | $114,520 |
Nearby States Comparison
Clinical and Counseling Psychologist licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Clinical and Counseling Psychologist in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 2-5 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists.
What education do you need to become a Clinical and Counseling Psychologist in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Clinical and Counseling Psychologist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Clinical and Counseling Psychologist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Washington is $115,050. Salaries range from $72,540 (10th percentile) to $165,820 (90th percentile).
How does the Clinical and Counseling Psychologist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Washington earn 20% above the national median of $95,830, with a state median of $115,050.
How many Clinical and Counseling Psychologists work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 980 Clinical and Counseling Psychologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Clinical and Counseling Psychologist license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Clinical and Counseling Psychologist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.