FAQs

How long does it take to complete certification process?
It is recommended that the certification process be completed within two (2) years from the date of Candidacy.*
*Exception: Clinical Neuropsychology has seven (7) years to complete the board certification process. Forensic Psychology has three (3) years to complete the board certification process.
 

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How much does it cost?
Click here for Certification Fees

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What are the practice sample requirements for a regular and senior candidate?
In general, a senior candidate is not required to do a video recording. However, some boards do require. Please review each specialty boards Certification & Exam Process. ABCN & ABFP do not offer the Senior Option.

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What if I need more time to complete a stage?
You will need to contact central office at office@abpp.org or call 919-537-8031.

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What if I am not allowed to film a patient?
Contact the Practice Sample coordinator of the Specialty Board listed under the Officers page.
 

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When and where are the oral exams?
Each specialty board have different times and places. It is described in detail under the specialty board Manual found in the Document Library.

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What happens if I fail a stage, can I appeal?
Please note that (similar to Stage 1 and Stage 3 decisions) non-approval at any stage can be appealed by the candidate. The candidate must specify the grounds on which the appeal is made. The alleged grounds of the appeal must document violations of the Specialty Board’s procedures. Appeals that fail to demonstrate the Board’s non-adherence to exam procedures are generally not upheld. The appeals process is described in detail under the specialty board Manual found in the Document Library.

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Are there fees to maintain board certification?
Yes. Board certified specialists must complete an attestation on an annual basis in order to ensure to the public, the organization, and the profession that the specialist is currently in active practice of the specialty, is properly licensed or certified, or retired and is current with fees required by the organization.  The attestation form must be completed annually by board certified specialists and verified as meeting board certification requirements.  Only board certified specialists and retired board certified specialists meeting these requirements will be listed in the ABPP (online) directory. 

Annual Fees associated with Attestation:

• Specialist Active Fee $210($25 late fee applies 4/1)
• Specialist Retired Fee $50* ($25 late fee applies 4/1)

*Retired is defined as, "No longer derive income from working as a psychologist"

Specialist holding multiple certifications pay only one fee.

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How do I maintain my board certification?
In addition to the annual attestation (see above) that must be completed by board certified specialists, ABPP board certified specialists must complete the documentation process of Maintenance of Certification (MOC) once every ten years. This applies to those board certified prior to 1/1/2015. You will be reminded 2-3 years advance of the due date so that you may begin the MOC process.

 

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Once board certified, will I get reciprocity or mobility with state licensing boards?
A rough listing of the practical impact of being board certified through ABPP as it relates to mobility and licensure in the U.S. Laws and rules change, and you are advised to check with the licensing board for additional information. “Reciprocity” may still require some aspects of documentation, but typically is full or “near-full” reciprocity. “Waiver of Exam” typically represents waiver of the EPPP; you may still need to take a state jurisprudence examination.



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I'd like a mentor, how do I get one? 
It's Free! The board strongly encourages all candidates to obtain a mentor to guide them through the process of practice sample submission and oral examination. Contact the Practice Sample coordinator of the Specialty Board listed under the Officers page.

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Are there any workshops to help me prepare for Board Certification?
Yes! Every year ABPP puts on a workshop presented by a select few on our Executive Committee which offers information on how to become board certified. Check under News & Events ABPP Conference & Workshop.

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