Understanding What Clinical Psychologists Can Legally Do in California

Many people are unclear about what licensed clinical psychologists in California actually do. Do they do therapy? Psychological testing? Or prescribe medication?

While clinical psychologists have much overlap with other mental health professionals, there are some important differences. Here’s what you need to know about clinical psychologists and how they compare to other professionals.

Do psychologists provide therapy?

Yes. Licensed clinical psychologists are authorized to provide psychotherapy and therapeutic techniques to individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations (California Business & Professions Code (BPC) Section 2903). Psychologists offer talk therapy for a wide range of concerns, from anxiety and depression to complex trauma and personality disorders.

Can psychologists diagnose mental illness?

Yes, psychologists are fully authorized to assess and diagnose mental disorders using the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). See BPC 2903. They may also specialize in more complex diagnostic cases involving co-occurring or less common conditions.

Can psychologists prescribe medication?

No, psychologists are not legally authorized to prescribe medication in California. BPC 2904. However, they often collaborate with physicians, including psychiatrists, to discuss medication as part of the treatment plan for a client. In a few other states, psychologists with additional training can prescribe, but not in California.

Can psychologists provide electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?

No, psychologists are explicitly prohibited from providing ECT aka “shock” therapy to clients or patients. BPC 2904.

Can psychologists use biofeedback measurements and instruments?

Yes, psychologists are explicitly allowed to use biofeedback instruments “which do not pierce or cut the skin to measure physical and mental functioning.” BPC 2903.1. This may include using sensors to monitor various physiological functions like heart rate, muscle tension, skin temperature, or brainwave activity.

Can psychologists conduct psychological testing?

Yes, psychological testing and assessment is a core competency of clinical psychologists. Psychologists can conduct comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluations, including projective tests, intelligence testing, forensic evaluations, and assessments for learning disabilities or autism (BPC 2903).

Other therapists (like LMFTs, LPCCs, and LCSWs) may use basic assessment tools as part of treatment but are not permitted to perform formal testing batteries, stand-alone evaluations, or interpret tests beyond their scope.

What degree and training do psychologists have?

Licensed clinical psychologists must have a doctoral degree in psychology, either a PhD or a PsyD (psychological doctorate). This generally involves at least four years of education and training after the bachelor’s degree, for a total of about eight or more years of higher education.

They must also complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience before becoming fully licensed.

How do psychologists compare with LMFTs?

Both psychologists and LMFTs (licensed marriage and family therapists) provide psychotherapy, diagnose mental illness, and treat individuals, couples, and families. LMFTs have a master’s degree and are trained with a relational/systemic focus. Psychologists must complete a doctoral degree and receive more extensive education and training in psychological testing, assessment, and research.

For individual, couples, or family therapy, both license types may be appropriate. If you need a formal evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, or a court case, a psychologist may be required.

How do psychologists compare with LPCCs?

Both psychologists and LPCCs (licensed professional clinical counselors) provide psychotherapy, diagnose mental illness, and treat individuals, couples, and families. LPCCs have a master’s degree and are trained with a focus on personal and career development. Psychologists complete a doctoral degree and receive more extensive training in psychological testing, assessment, and research.

For individual, couples, or family therapy, both license types may be appropriate. If you need a formal evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, or a court case, a psychologist may be required.

How do psychologists compare with LCSWs?

Both psychologists and LCSWs (licensed clinical social workers) provide psychotherapy, diagnose mental illness, and treat individuals, couples, and families. LCSWs have a master’s degree and are trained in case management, social systems, and advocacy, while psychologists are trained in assessment, diagnostics, and clinical theory. Psychologists complete a doctoral degree and receive more extensive training in psychological testing, assessment, and research.

For individual, couples, or family therapy, both license types may be appropriate. If you need a formal evaluation for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, or a court case, a psychologist may be required.

How do psychologists compare with psychiatrists?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who specialize in mental health. They can diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders and prescribe medication, something psychologists cannot do. Psychiatrists are legally authorized to provide psychotherapy (talk therapy), although many choose not to. Psychologists and psychiatrists often collaborate: the psychologist provides psychotherapy and testing; the psychiatrist manages medications.

Further Resources

Guide to Laws About Mental Health Professionals in California

What are the Legal and Ethical Requirements for Therapists in California?

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