Statutory framework and scope of practice under the Maryland Psychology Act
Statutory framework and scope of practice
This domain tests how the Maryland Psychology Act, Health Occupations Article Title 18, defines and regulates psychology. The Act creates the Board of Examiners of Psychologists and makes it unlawful to practice psychology or use the title 'psychologist' without a license, unless an exemption applies. Practice includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, research, and supervision of psychological services.
Core rules
- Licensure is required for independent practice and for representing oneself as a psychologist.
- The Board interprets 'practice of psychology' broadly; unlicensed practice can lead to cease-and-desist orders and civil penalties.
- Exemptions are narrow: students in supervised training, certain federal employees, and other licensed professionals acting within their scope are typical examples; verify the specific exemption before relying on it.
- The Act authorizes the Board to adopt regulations (COMAR 10.36) that carry the force of law.
Worked example
A counselor with a master's degree advertises 'psychological testing for ADHD.' Even if the testing is within the counselor's training, the advertisement implies psychology and testing may exceed the counselor's scope. The Board could treat this as unlicensed practice and false advertising. The fix is to use an accurate title, obtain psychological supervision, or refer testing to a licensed psychologist.
Traps
Do not assume a related license permits psychological diagnosis or the title 'psychologist.' Do not rely on a general exemption without checking its terms. Scope questions often turn on how the service is represented, not only what is done.