The licensing laws require certain experience during this supervised practice, and most states require at least part of the experience to be completed after the doctoral degree is obtained. In New Jersey, two years of full time supervised experience are required before an individual can apply to take the licensing exam. At least one year of this experience must be completed after the doctoral degree. This experience is in addition to any practicums a psychologist might complete as part of the doctoral degree. Finally, licensed psychologists in all 50 states must pass a licensing exam before they are allowed to practice independently, without supervision.
Some states require a separate exam on the laws governing psychology in their state.
Other states, like New Jersey, require an additional oral exam to assess the applicant's practical application of knowledge about psychology. Members of the licensing board then meet with the psychologist to ask questions about his or her training, plans for practice, and knowledge of ethical principles relating to the practice of psychology, as well as any other questions deemed relevant to independent practice. Following the oral exam, the entire licensing board must vote regarding the license application, after all the information in the application has been reviewed. Human behavior is the sum of what people think, feel and do. Most people seek psychological help when they have a problem managing some part of their life.