Can I practice clinical psychology with a DWI felony in Washington?

Question

I posses a DWI felony in Missouri and I am wanting to practice clinical psychology. Can I practice in Washington and/or Missouri? Which states might I be able to do this in?

Answer 1

Hi Brandon, I would need more information to give you a specific answer but I can say that it depends. I'm not sure where you are in the process of becoming a clinical psychologist (are you applying to program, in school, at internship, or have you completed schooling?) So if you are already in a program and working towards going to internship, this may be something that comes up in interview that you will have to discuss. They may be hesitant as many internships and even practicum placements will do background checks. It is up to them if they want to accept you. If you have completed a doctoral program and are working toward your licensure, then I will say that I don't think there is anything prohibiting people with a DWI from taking the licensing exam. I'm sure it would also depend on how long ago it was.

If you aren't currently enrolled in a program, this is something that may come up in the interview process/background check. Depending on how you dealt with it (e.g., it was a one time occurrence, you went to rehab, etc.) you may be able to talk about this in your application or interview.

If you already have a license, the hurdle would be getting a position, depending on the site. You can probably open a private practice and there shouldn't be anything keeping you from working. Might come up in forensic cases if lawyers do a background check, but otherwise I don't see it being an issue.

Alternatively, there are resources you can contact in both states to find out more about the licensing exam.

Feel free to message me for more info.