Historic Passage of SL 2025-37
In 2025, North Carolina enacted Session Law 2025-37 (SL 2025-37), a landmark update to the Psychology Practice Act that establishes a pathway to independent practice for Licensed Psychological Associates (LPAs). This legislation removes the requirement for indefinite, career-long supervision and replaces it with a structured, competency-based approach that aligns psychology with other master’s-level licensed professions in the state.
The passage of SL 2025-37 reflects years of advocacy and collaboration by the North Carolina Association of Professional Psychologists, legislators, and stakeholders committed to improving access to psychological services while maintaining high professional standards. The law expands workforce capacity, supports continuity of care, and recognizes the training, experience, and competencies of LPAs serving communities across North Carolina. Implementation is now underway through rulemaking and stakeholder engagement with the North Carolina Psychology Board.