The California Board of Psychology plays a critical role in ensuring the ethical, safe, and competent practice of psychology across the state. As part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), the Board protects the public by licensing qualified professionals and regulating psychological services. This page serves as a resource hub for the Board’s current and past strategic goals to foster mental health in California, leadership updates, contact information, and more.
About the Board
The California Board of Psychology was originally established in 1958, when psychologists were first certified in the state. Today, it functions as an independent regulatory entity under the Department of Consumer Affairs, funded entirely through license, application, and exam fees — not taxpayer dollars.
The Board licenses and regulates the following professionals in California:
- Licensed psychologists
- Registered psychological associates
- Psychological testing technicians
- Research psychoanalysts
- Student research psychoanalysts
Its primary responsibility is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of California consumers by ensuring licensees meet strict educational, training, and ethical standards. Unlicensed individuals who practice psychology are investigated and, if necessary, referred for criminal prosecution.
The Board also plays a key role in educating the public, enforcing laws governing psychological services, and maintaining the quality and integrity of the profession statewide.
Strategic Plan Overview
The Board's work is driven by multi-year strategic plans. These plans are built around six core goals:
- Licensing – Improving application processing and adopting efficient electronic systems
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Supporting ongoing professional growth
- Policy and Advocacy – Protecting consumers and navigating the evolving legal landscape
- Enforcement – Streamlining complaint processes and ensuring fair, transparent investigations
- Outreach and Communication – Educating the public and promoting access to board resources
- Board Operations – Enhancing internal workflows and onboarding practices
Each goal includes specific, measurable objectives that guide Board activity over the span of several years.
Board Leadership and Members
The Board consists of nine members:
- Five licensed psychologists
- Four public members
(Public members cannot be licensed by the Board or any other DCA healing arts board.)
Appointments are made as follows:
- Governor appoints five licensed psychologists and two public members
- Senate Rules Committee appoints one public member
- Speaker of the Assembly appoints one public member
Members serve four-year terms and may complete up to two full terms. The Board is supported by a professional staff, led by an executive team responsible for day-to-day operations.
Executive Staff:
- Antonette Sorrick – Executive Officer
- Jonathan Burke – Assistant Executive Officer
- Cynthia Whitney – Central Services Unit Manager
- Stephanie Cheung – Licensing Unit Manager
- Sandra Monterrubio – Enforcement Program Manager
To contact staff directly, see the info in the section below.
History of the Board
The Certification Act of 1958 marked the beginning of psychology regulation in California, offering title protection to “psychologists” without a consumer focus. In 1967, the Legislature required formal licensure and clearly defined the scope of practice.
In 1990, the Board became fully independent under Assembly Bill 858, transitioning from an examining committee to the California Board of Psychology. Over time, legislative amendments have expanded the Board’s disciplinary powers, improved licensing enforcement, and increased consumer protections.
Board Meetings
The Board holds regular public meetings to discuss regulations, licensing, enforcement actions, and strategic priorities. Consumers, licensees, and stakeholders are encouraged to attend or participate.
Dr. Jennifer Trimpey
Never miss a California Board of Psychology meeting with our complete calendar for 2025.
Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)
The California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) provides oversight for more than 40 licensing boards and bureaus, including the Board of Psychology. DCA supports these entities with administrative services, policy direction, and legal resources.
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Dr. Jennifer Trimpey
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