What does temporary authorization allow psychologists to do?

Temporary authorization allows psychologists to practice in a state different from their home state under specific conditions. This provision is often utilized in emergency situations, such as when a psychologist is responding to a disaster or providing services in a region affected by a crisis. The goal is to ensure that there are enough qualified professionals available to meet the needs of the population in that area, thereby expanding access to mental health services.

While the temporary authorization does enable psychologists to practice in distant states, it is important to note that this type of practice is permitted for a limited time and usually comes with restrictions, such as not requiring full licensure in that state. The focus is on quickly addressing urgent psychological needs rather than establishing a permanent practice.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the nature of temporary authorization. For example, practicing only in the home state does not utilize the flexibility provided by temporary authorization, whereas practicing in multiple compact states without additional licenses refers to the specific framework of interstate licensure compacts, which is not synonymous with temporary authorization. Teaching at regional accredited institutions does not fall under the same regulations as psychological practice, making this option unrelated to the concept of temporary authorization.