Competency Requirements

Competency Requirements - Foundational & Functional

Foundational Competencies (8)

  1. Professionalism
    Demonstrating professional values and ethics as evidenced in behavior and comportment that reflect the values and ethics of psychology, integrity, and responsibility.

  2. Reflective Practice/Self-Assessment/Self-CarePractice is conducted with personal and professional self-awareness and reflection, awareness of competencies, and appropriate self-care.

  3. Scientific Knowledge and Methods
    Understanding of research, research methodology, techniques of data collection and analysis, biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases of behavior, and development across the lifespan. Respect for scientifically derived knowledge.

  4. Relationships
    Relate effectively and meaningfully with individuals, groups, and/or communities.

  5. Individual and Cultural Diversity
    Awareness, sensitivity, and skills in working professionally with diverse individuals, groups, and communities representing various cultural and personal backgrounds and characteristics are defined broadly and consistent with APA policy.

  6. Ethical Legal Standards and Policy
    Application of ethical concepts and awareness of legal issues regarding professional activities with individuals, groups, and organizations.

  7. Interdisciplinary Systems
    Knowledge of key issues and concepts in related disciplines. Identify and interact with professionals in multiple disciplines.

  8. Evidence-Based Practice
    Demonstration of the capacity to integrate current research literature into clinical practice, research/evaluation, and other functional competency domains where applicable. 

Functional Competencies (8)

  1. Assessment
    Assessment and diagnosis of problems, capabilities, and issues associated with individuals, groups, and/or organizations.

  2. Intervention
    Interventions designed to alleviate suffering and to promote the health and well-being of individuals, groups, and/or organizations.

  3. Consultation
    The ability to provide expert guidance or professional assistance in response to a client’s needs or goals.

  4. Research/Evaluation
    Generating research that contributes to the professional knowledge base and/or evaluates the effectiveness of various professional activities.

  5. Supervision
    Supervision and training in the professional knowledge base and of evaluation of the effectiveness of various professional activities.

  6. Teaching
    Providing instruction, disseminating knowledge, and evaluating the acquisition of knowledge and skill in professional psychology.

  7. Management-Administration
    Manage the direct delivery of services and/or the administration of organizations, programs, or agencies in areas of professional psychology.

  8. Advocacy
    Actions targeting the impact of social, political, economic, or cultural factors to promote change at the individual (client), institutional, and system level.