Integrating Board Certification Expectations and Examination Practice Into Clinical Child and Pediatric Psychology Training Programs

Abstract

ABSTRACTRecent trends in the field suggest that it may be an ideal time for clinical psychology training programs to consider integrating American Board of Professional Psychology certification components into their training programs. Training programs are already required to evaluate and document trainees’ competencies, and the field of clinical psychology is increasing its emphasis on board certification. Nonetheless, the process of board certification appears daunting and anxiety provoking to both recent and experienced professionals. Providing trainees with experience in board certification experiences is likely to increase their skill and comfort with case presentations, writing professional statements, and oral examinations. Experience in programs with this approach suggests that these components can be utilized to evaluate competencies with minimal to moderate increases in time commitments from both faculty and trainees. Further research evaluating strategies to increase trainees’ participation and success with board certification is warranted.