Delishia Pittman, PhD, ABPP
Welcome to the ABCoP website and thank you for your interest in pursuing board certification in Counseling Psychology. This milestone represents more than just a credential; it is a powerful affirmation of your commitment to professional excellence and the advancement of our field. Board certification serves as a testament to your mastery of the foundational and functional competencies that define Counseling Psychology, as well as your dedication to promoting wellbeing across the lifespan.
Counseling Psychology is uniquely positioned within the broader discipline of psychology, distinguished by its holistic approach to fostering well-being through preventive, developmental, and remedial strategies. By obtaining board certification, you not only enhance your credibility and visibility as a health service psychologist but also contribute to the ongoing recognition and impact of Counseling Psychology as a specialty. For a deeper understanding of the field’s scope and principles, I encourage you to visit the APA’s detailed description at https://www.apa.org/ed/graduate/specialize/counseling.
The future of Counseling Psychology depends on our collective investment in professional development and mentorship. Board certification is a critical step in shaping that future, as it demonstrates both individual excellence and a shared commitment to advancing the science and practice of our specialty. Whether you are an early career psychologist, a seasoned clinician, or an academic leader, your pursuit of board certification strengthens the foundation of our field and inspires the next generation of counseling psychologists.
For those already board-certified, your leadership and dedication are vital to our community. Many of us sought board certification to fulfill personal goals, meet job requirements, achieve professional advancement, or serve as role models. Your contributions underscore the value of this credential for both personal growth and the
advancement of our discipline.
To those considering board certification, I invite you to take the first step in this transformative journey. Whether you are a graduate student, early career psychologist, or late career psychologist, there are pathways tailored to support you whatever your stage of professional development. Early entry programs and mentorship opportunities are designed to guide you through the application and examination process. To learn more
about the requirements and application process, please explore the resources available on our website, including the Specialty-specific requirements and the Document Library.
We recognize that embarking on this journey can feel daunting, but you are not alone. Mentorship is a cornerstone of our process, and I encourage you to connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support. If you are interested in working with a mentor, please contact me for assistance.
As we look to the future of Counseling Psychology, the importance of board certification cannot be overstated. It elevates our profession, enhances the quality of care we provide, and reinforces the trust placed in us by those we serve. I am here to support you every step of the way, so please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions. You can find my contact information and that of other Specialty Board Officers on our website.
I commend you on your dedication to excellence and wish you every success on your journey toward board certification as a Counseling Psychologist.
Delisha Pittman, PhD, ABPP
President, American Board of Counseling Psychology (ABCoP)