The ABPP confers board certification upon recommendation by the relevant Specialty Board. As such, the “ABPP” certificate itself indicates the particular specialty. In order to represent oneself as board certified by ABPP, the specialist must pay the annual certification fees and attest to their continued adherence to ABPP standards.
The ABPP Board of Trustees supports clear and simple designation of board certification status, which will ensure that the credential is understood by the public. The ABPP Board of Trustees also strongly recommend that specialists identify their relevant specialty board(s) when using the designation of ABPP in all materials, except when space or institutional policy prevents doing so.
For individuals who have one board certification from ABPP, the following format is recommended:
Jane Doe, PhD, ABPP
Board Certified in Clinical Psychology
For individuals who have more than one board certification and subspecialty from ABPP, the following format is recommended:
Jane Doe, PhD, ABPP
Board Certified in Clinical Psychology and Forensic Psychology
Jane Doe, PhD, ABPP
Board Certified in Clinical Neuropsychology
Board Certified Subspecialist in Pediatric Neuropsychology
For individuals who also hold a board certification other than ABPP, in order to clarify the ABPP board with which one is affiliated, the following format is recommended:
Jane Doe, PhD, ABPP
Board Certified in Clinical Psychology
NASBFP Certified in Biofeedback Psychology
Please note: when individuals wish to indicate a board certification other than ABPP, it is important that the additional board certification is placed on an additional signature line, as indicated above.
ABPP may be spelled-out if desired. ABPP is a “brand name” which is readily recognized by the profession. Abbreviated designations of certification such as ABCFP or ABCP should not be used.
Examples:
John Doe, PhD, ABPP
John Doe, PsyD, ABPP Board Certified Specialist