Section 7601-A. Definition of the practice of psychology  


Latest version.
  • 1. The practice of
      psychology  is the observation, description, evaluation, interpretation,
      and  modification  of  behavior  for  the  purpose  of   preventing   or
      eliminating  symptomatic,  maladaptive  or undesired behavior; enhancing
      interpersonal   relationships,   personal,   group   or   organizational
      effectiveness  and work and/or life adjustment; and improving behavioral
      health and/or mental health. The practice includes, but is  not  limited
      to  psychological (including neuropsychological) testing and counseling;
      psychoanalysis; psychotherapy; the diagnosis and  treatment  of  mental,
      nervous,  emotional,  cognitive  or  behavioral disorders, disabilities,
      ailments or illnesses, alcoholism, substance abuse, disorders  of  habit
      or  conduct,  the  psychological  aspects of physical illness, accident,
      injury or  disability,  psychological  aspects  of  learning  (including
      learning disorders); and the use of accepted classification systems.
        2.   The   term   "diagnosis  and  treatment"  means  the  appropriate
      psychological diagnosis and  the  ordering  or  providing  of  treatment
      according to need. Treatment includes, but is not limited to counseling,
      psychotherapy,  marital  or  family  therapy,  psychoanalysis, and other
      psychological interventions,  including  verbal,  behavioral,  or  other
      appropriate   means   as  defined  in  regulations  promulgated  by  the
      commissioner.