Mental Health: the need for modernization

The profession of psychology is in the throes of change. Traditionally rooted in a doctoral model, it is facing systemic changes in the field of mental and behavioral health care. This text explores the motivations, implications and controversies surrounding this transformation, while anchoring the analysis in a scientific and societal perspective. The dramatic increase in demand for mental health services has highlighted a critical shortage of qualified professionals (APA, 2023). An APA study reveals that more than half the psychologists surveyed cannot accept new patients, and 56% of them do not maintain a waiting list (Stringer, 2025). Faced with this crisis, the integration of master’s-level practitioners seems a viable and urgent response. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that job growth in the mental health field will be three times that of typical jobs over the next decade (CNN, 2024). In Europe, similar data point to an expected 20% increase in jobs in the mental health sector by 2030, according to a report by the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies (2023). Against this backdrop, the modernization of the profession aims to broaden the scope of psychologists’ work, while guaranteeing evidence-based quality of care.

Opportunities and challenges

The APA project is based on the creation of a multi-level model, which includes professionals with a master’s degree. This approach aims to standardize training and licensing standards, while addressing diverse demographic and geographic needs (Strong, 2025). Yet implementing this strategy is not without its challenges. Currently, only 20 U.S. states offer licensure to master’s-level psychology graduates, and requirements vary considerably from state to state (Stringer, 2025). Some impose permanent supervision, while others allow autonomy after a certain number of years. This heterogeneity complicates national recognition and hampers professional mobility. Despite these challenges, the implementation of a multi-step model could strengthen access to care in under-serviced areas and diversify the workforce, particularly for historically marginalized populations. As Teri Strong points out, “it’s a question of social justice”, as obtaining a PhD is not accessible to everyone (Stringer, 2025).

Another crucial step in this transition is the establishment of distinct, shared competences between the master’s and doctoral levels. This framework is intended to guide training programs while guaranteeing continuity in academic and professional standards (APA, 2024). The APA’s final recommendations, expected in February 2025, will include proposals on professional titles and scopes, thus contributing to greater coherence in licensing legislation. However, some professionals are expressing misgivings about this change. Matthew Davis, for example, is concerned about the quality of care offered by non-psychologically trained practitioners, who are currently filling the gap left by the shortage of psychologists. “If psychology doesn’t take the lead, other disciplines will occupy this space,” he warns (Stringer, 2025).

Societal impact and outlook

Beyond professional considerations, this reform has profound societal implications. By facilitating the integration of Masters-level practitioners, it could reduce disparities in access to mental health care, particularly in rural and marginalized areas (Gillaspy, 2023). Moreover, a multi-level approach could better address the complex needs of patients while strengthening psychology’s presence within the mental health landscape. Nevertheless, this transition requires the active engagement of the psychological community. As Jennifer Peltzer-Jones points out, increasing the number of clinicians prepared at master’s level could ease workloads and improve the overall quality of care (Stringer, 2025). This represents a unique opportunity for psychology to position itself as a leader in the field of behavioral health.

In conclusion, modernizing the profession of psychology is an ambitious but essential undertaking. By adopting a multi-step model, the APA seeks to respond to current challenges while preparing the profession for a future where access to quality care is a priority. If properly implemented, this transition could redefine the role of psychologists and reaffirm their relevance in a rapidly changing world.