[Nifster]

In California the only time you need to be licensed as a psychologist is if you are in clinical practise. She couldn’t qualify for that since she doesn’t have a PsyD she has a PhD in a research field

[PsyCon]

California and most states, restrict the title, then specify exceptions and exemptions in statute and/or regulations.

A free copy of California Board of Psychology's Laws and Regulations 2018 Edition is available for download under the Publications tab on their website.

Her doctorate is a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with an emphasis on Research Design. B&P 2914 includes that degree. Of course, she does not need a license to use the title, per B&P 2909(b).

Not too sure about Psy.D. being the more prevalent degree. Would appreciate a source for that statistic.