In order to be called a Psychologist in California an individual must:

(1) Hold a doctoral degree. The degree may be a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology degree (Ph.D.), a Doctor of Psychology degree (Psy.D.), or a Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.).  On average, psychologists have more than seven years of training in addition to their bachelor's degree, and 3,000 hours of supervised practice in psychology. A year of supervised post-doctoral psychological training must be completed before psychologists take their national test and a state-administered exam.

(2) Be licensed by the California Board of Psychology.  Once licensed, psychologists are required to fulfill a continuing education requirement established by the Board of Psychology in order to maintain an active license.