Why Annual Attestation Matters for Board-Certified Psychologists
The ABPP Directory is more than a listing—it is a trusted public resource that reflects the professionalism, credibility, and active status of board-certified psychologists. Keeping this directory accurate depends on one essential step each specialist completes annually: professional attestation.
Why Attestation Is Required
Annual attestation allows ABPP to confirm a psychologist’s current professional status, ensuring that the Directory accurately reflects who is actively practicing as a psychologist and eligible for the benefits and responsibilities of board certification.
If a board-certified psychologist earns any income as a psychologist—regardless of amount or setting—their status is considered active, and the associated annual maintenance fee applies. This standard helps maintain consistency, fairness, and transparency across all specialties and practice settings.
How Attestation Affects the Directory
When an annual attestation is not submitted:
- A specialist’s status may become out of compliance
- Directory information may be outdated or incomplete
- Certain professional opportunities, including volunteer roles, may be restricted until compliance is restored
The Directory is frequently used by colleagues, referral sources, organizations, and the public. Completing attestation helps ensure that your professional information is accurate and that the ABPP credential continues to represent the highest standards of the profession.
Professional Status and Community Engagement
Active status is also required for participation in many aspects of the ABPP community, including serving as a volunteer reviewer. Reviewers play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of board certification, and current attestation ensures that all volunteers meet the same professional standards expected of applicants.
A Shared Responsibility
ABPP recognizes that administrative tasks are just one part of a busy professional life. At the same time, annual attestation is a shared responsibility that supports:
- The credibility of the ABPP credential
- The accuracy of the public Directory
- The strength and integrity of our professional community
We encourage all board-certified psychologists to take a moment each year to review and submit their attestation promptly.
Thank You
ABPP is grateful for your ongoing commitment to professional excellence and to the values that board certification represents. Your participation helps ensure that the Directory remains a reliable, respected resource—and that our community continues to thrive.
If you have questions about attestation or your professional status, ABPP Central Office is always here to help. You may find the Central Office contact information here: https://abpp.org/about-abpp/central-office/.