Survey reveals 69% of psychologists do not plan to retire within five years

The Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) convened the Licensed Psychology Advisory Committee on April 29, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting licensed psychologists in the state. The meeting highlighted the current landscape of psychological services, license retention, and the anticipated retirement trends among practitioners.

A significant finding from the meeting was that out of 173 surveyed psychologists, 140 reported they are actively providing services, indicating a strong retention of licensed professionals in the field. However, 20 respondents were not offering services despite holding active licenses. The primary reasons cited included job roles that did not require a license and retirement status, suggesting a nuanced understanding of the workforce dynamics within psychology.

The committee also explored the hours psychologists dedicate to client services. Approximately 39% of respondents reported providing between 20 to 40 hours of in-person services weekly, while 57% indicated they offered less than five hours of telehealth services. This disparity raises questions about the evolving nature of psychological practice, particularly in light of the increasing reliance on remote services.

Another critical discussion point was the anticipated retirement of psychologists. About 69% of respondents indicated they do not plan to retire within the next five years, but 18% affirmed they would, with an additional 13% uncertain. If the unsure group decides to retire, this could mean nearly 30% of the current workforce may exit the profession soon. This potential shift raises concerns about the future availability of psychological services in Kansas, especially if new licensing rates do not keep pace with retirements.

The meeting also addressed the familiarity of psychologists with the advisory committee's work. A notable 64% of respondents reported being unfamiliar with the committee, highlighting a potential gap in communication and engagement between the board and licensed professionals.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Licensed Psychology Advisory Committee meeting underscored the importance of understanding the current workforce dynamics, including service provision, retirement trends, and engagement with regulatory bodies. As the field of psychology continues to evolve, these insights will be crucial for ensuring that Kansas maintains a robust and responsive mental health care system. The BSRB plans to further analyze license retention and retirement trends to better inform future policy decisions and support for licensed psychologists in the state.