Bianca Brooks, PhD, ABPP
Q. What motivated you to become board certified in clinical child/pediatric psychology?
A. Advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion has always been integral to my professional identity. After becoming board certified, I have made a concerted effort to speak with colleagues from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds about the many benefits of pursuing board certification. Representation is critically important from both professional and clinical perspectives, and it is essential that clients from all backgrounds have opportunities to work with providers whose competency in the specialty has been formally recognized.
Q. What advice would you give candidates in pursuing board certification in clinical child/pediatric psychology?
A. I encourage candidates to use the process as an opportunity to reflect on their original purpose for becoming child psychologists. Many of us entered this field because of our inquisitive nature, and it is rewarding to work in a profession that continually emphasizes self-reflection and ongoing professional development. I also highly recommend speaking with a mentor or colleague who has recently completed the process for additional guidance and support.
Q. Do you think obtaining your Board Certification in Clinical Child/Pediatric Psychology has influenced your professional work/how?
A. I encourage candidates to use the process as an opportunity to reflect on their original purpose for becoming child psychologists. Many of us entered this field because of our inquisitive nature, and it is rewarding to work in a profession that continually emphasizes self-reflection and ongoing professional development. I also highly recommend speaking with a mentor or colleague who has recently completed the process for additional guidance and support.
Q. How do you advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion as a ABCCAP Specialist?
A. Advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion has always been integral to my professional identity. After becoming board certified, I have made a concerted effort to speak with colleagues from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds about the many benefits of pursuing board certification. Representation is critically important from both professional and clinical perspectives, and it is essential that clients from all backgrounds have opportunities to work with providers whose competency in the specialty has been formally recognized.