Starting in 2026, psychologists across the nation will be required to take an extra exam in order to be licensed.

Psychologists are currently required to take a knowledge exam from the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards.

Last October, the national board announced a second exam — known as the "skills exam" — will also be required.

This exam is designed to test the skills of a newly graduated psychologist, but Texas’ psychology board believes this will add another barrier.

“Our problem is not unqualified professionals, it's the lack of professionals,” John Bielamowicz, chairman of the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologist said. “So why are we gonna, again, add another hurdle, another barrier, another cost to people who are trying to get into this profession.”

Channel 5 News was told there's a shortage of psychologists in rural counties.

Data shows in 2023, Starr County had one licensed psychologist, and Willacy County had none.

The Texas Psychology Board is refusing to adopt the new exam. They’re currently looking for an alternative — like creating their own state exam.

The District of Columbia, Georgia and Nevada have all agreed to the new testing requirements.

On Wednesday, the state's psychology board will meet with lawmakers during a senate committee hearing.

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