Statutory framework and scope of practice under the Minnesota Psychology Practice Act
Statutory framework and scope of practice
The Minnesota Psychology Practice Act, Minn. Stat. ch. 148 (especially §§ 148.88–148.98), establishes the Board of Psychology and regulates both the title psychologist and the practice of psychology. The exam tests whether you can separate title protection from practice protection, apply the statutory exemptions narrowly, and identify when Board jurisdiction attaches.
Core rules
- Only a licensed psychologist may use the title psychologist or represent themselves as qualified to practice psychology in Minnesota. Unlicensed practice and false representation are grounds for Board action.
- The practice of psychology includes assessment, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, research, teaching, and supervision of psychological services. It is not limited to psychotherapy.
- Exemptions are narrow: students and interns in Board-approved training, certain other licensed professionals acting within their scope, and clergy or employees of exempt settings may be exempt only while those conditions are met. Exemption does not authorize independent psychological practice.
- The Board may adopt rules, investigate complaints, subpoena records, and impose discipline. A license from another state does not authorize practice when the client is located in Minnesota.
Worked example
A community agency advertises that a master's-level employee will provide psychological testing and calls her a psychologist. She is not licensed. The title use violates the Act, and independent testing and diagnosis may also be unlicensed practice. If she is an intern in an approved program, supervised by a licensed psychologist, her activities may be exempt, but the advertisement still must not misrepresent her credential.
Traps that cost marks
- Assuming a supervisor's license covers the trainee's independent work.
- Treating a general exemption for other professionals as permission to do psychological testing.
- Forgetting that telehealth with a client in Minnesota generally requires Minnesota authorization.
- Believing scope of practice is unlimited because the setting is a school, hospital, or nonprofit.