Application Information > Learn About Specialty Boards > Clinical Health > FAQs

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FAQs


 

What are the benefits of Board Certification in Clinical Health Psychology?
A. Board Certification in psychology is the wave of the future. Some institutions of higher learning now require board certification for promotion to full professor in psychology, and some hospitals require all their psychologists to be board certified. B. It communicates to the public that board certified psychologists have met the necessary criteria and are committed to the highest level of competency in clinical health psychology. C. Some organizations such as the Department of Defense and the Public Health Service  provide additional pay for having board certification.



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How long do I have to complete the board certification process?
Candidates have one year to submit their practice samples. After the practice samples have been approved, the candidate may sit for the oral examination, which is offered 2 to 3 times per year.



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Is the there a written test involved?   
No, but there is a Practice Sample requirement and an oral examination comprised of four components: Practice Sample, Standardized Clinical Case Assessment and Integration, Professional Issues and Identification, and Ethics.



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How much is this going to cost?
Fees are paid online, non-refundable and subject to change without notice. Application fee $125.00 ($25 for Early Entry Applicants). Practice sample fee $250.00. Oral exam fee $450.00.

 

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What are the fees for maintaining board certification in Clinical Health Psychology?
Annual fee: $185 Active; $50 Retired (not earning income as a psychologist).

 

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What is the relationship between Division 38 (Health Psychology) and Board Certification in Clinical Health Psychology?
The two work closely together, and Division 38 members have voiced strong support for  board certification in clinical health psychology. However, a psychologist who is board certified in clinical health psychology is strongly encouraged but not required to be a member of Division 38.

 

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Will I be assigned a mentor?
Yes, once your credentials have been approved and you have a draft of your practice sample/portfolio and professional statement, contact the President of the American Academy of Clinical Health Psychology who will connect you with a mentor. Mentorship is strongly recommended but not required. Mentors are experienced, board certified clinical health psychologists who will provide general guidance to assist candidates in completing the board certification process in a timely manner.



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Are there special considerations given to clinical health psychologists who are senior in the field?
Yes. Senior applicants are defined as having both at least 15 years experience of  professional experience following licensure and also as having made distinguished  contributions to the field of clinical health psychology. Senior applicants may qualify for a modified application process.



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Is there continuing education credit for completion of board certification process?
Yes. The examinee will receive 10 CE credits for passing the certification process.

 

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