Top 10 Child Psychologist Certifications

Certifications are important for a child psychologist in the job market because they provide evidence of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to practice in the field. Certifications provide an objective measure of a professional’s qualifications, ensuring that employers can trust the competence of someone they hire. For those interested in working with children, certifications help to demonstrate a commitment to best practices and ethical standards within the profession. Additionally, some states require certification or licensure before allowing a child psychologist to practice independently. Finally, certifications can help increase earning potential by providing access to higher-paying positions.

The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Child Psychologists and how they can enhance their career prospects.

What are Child Psychologist Certifications?

Child psychologist certification is a professional designation granted by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) to psychologists who specialize in working with children, adolescents, and their families. This certification requires completion of specialized post-doctoral training in child and adolescent psychology and successful completion of an examination administered by the ABPP.

This certification provides assurance that a child psychologist has met rigorous standards for education, experience and expertise in the field. It demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development, as well as dedication to providing quality services to children and their families. Having this certification can also help differentiate a psychologist from others in the field of mental health, allowing them to better serve clients who are seeking specialist care for their children’s needs.

In addition to providing assurance of higher levels of expertise and qualifications, having this certification can also be beneficial for career advancement opportunities. Many employers prefer to hire psychologists with board certifications because they demonstrate additional training and experience in the field. Furthermore, some states may require board certification before granting licensure or other privileges related to practice.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing child psychologist certification, make sure to check your state's requirements for the specific type of license you are looking to obtain. Additionally, be sure to research any continuing education requirements that may be needed in order to maintain your license.

Related: What does a Child Psychologist do?

Top 10 Child Psychologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Child Psychologists today.

1. Certified Child and Adolescent Psychologist (CCAP)

A Certified Child and Adolescent Psychologist (CCAP) is a professional who has specialized training in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental health issues in children and adolescents. CCAPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat emotional, behavioral, and developmental disorders in children and adolescents. They can also provide individual psychotherapy, family therapy, group therapy, play therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, consultation with schools and other professionals involved in the child’s care, crisis intervention services, and more.

It typically takes between 3-5 years to become a Certified Child and Adolescent Psychologist (CCAP). This includes earning a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited university or college as well as completing postdoctoral supervised clinical experience. Depending on the state you live in there may be additional requirements such as passing an exam or obtaining licensure.

To become a Certified Child and Adolescent Psychologist (CCAP), you must first complete all of the necessary educational requirements including earning your doctoral degree. Once you have completed your education you will need to apply for certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). You will need to submit proof of your education as well as any other required documentation such as letters of recommendation or transcripts. After submitting your application it can take up to 6 months for ABPP to review your information before issuing certification.

The cost for becoming a Certified Child and Adolescent Psychologist (CCAP) varies depending on the state you live in but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,500. This cost covers registration fees for the ABPP exam as well as any additional fees associated with obtaining licensure if required by your state.

2. Certified School Psychologist (CSP)

Certified School Psychologist (CSP) is a professional credential that is earned by individuals who have met the educational and training requirements to practice school psychology. The CSP is granted by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field. It indicates that an individual has advanced knowledge and skills in the areas of assessment, intervention, consultation, research, and program evaluation.

To obtain the CSP credential, individuals must complete a minimum of 60 semester hours (or 90 quarter hours) of graduate study from an accredited college or university in school psychology. This includes coursework in areas such as human development, learning theory, assessment techniques, counseling skills, research methods, and psychological interventions. In addition to completing the educational requirements for certification, candidates must also pass a national examination administered by NASP.

The cost to apply for the CSP credential varies depending on whether you are already a member of NASP or not. For non-members, there is an application fee of $250 plus a $75 exam fee. For current members of NASP, there is an application fee of $150 plus a $75 exam fee.

Once all requirements have been met and the application has been approved by NASP, it typically takes about four weeks for applicants to receive their certification credentials in the mail.

3. Diplomate in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (DCCAP)

Diplomate in Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (DCCAP) is a post-doctoral certification awarded by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). It recognizes advanced training and expertise in the practice of clinical child and adolescent psychology. The DCCAP is designed to recognize psychologists who have achieved a level of mastery in the field that goes beyond what is typically required for licensure.

The process to obtain the DCCAP involves completing an application, passing an oral examination, submitting letters of recommendation, and providing evidence of professional experience. Applicants must also have completed a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology from an accredited program, as well as at least two years of supervised experience working with children and adolescents.

The process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The cost for applying for the DCCAP ranges from $400-$600 depending on the type of application submitted.

4. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a professional certification in the field of behavior analysis. It is administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). The BCBA certification requires an individual to have a master’s degree in behavior analysis, education, or psychology and pass a rigorous exam.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the requirements for the BCBA certification. This includes completing coursework, supervised experience working with clients, and passing the BACB examination.

To become certified as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, you must first complete the necessary coursework and supervised experience required by the BACB. You can find more information about these requirements on their website. Once you have completed all of these requirements, you must then register for and pass the BACB examination.

The cost of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst varies depending on your educational background and where you live. Generally speaking, it will cost around $1000-$2000 for tuition fees associated with completing coursework and supervised experience hours required for certification. Additionally, there is an application fee of $50 to register for the BACB exam and an additional fee of $225 for taking it.

5. Registered Play Therapist (RPT)

Registered Play Therapist (RPT) is a professional designation that recognizes the specialized training and experience of therapists who use play therapy to help children, adolescents, and their families. Play therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses play activities as the primary means of communication between therapist and client. It is designed to help children express their feelings, develop problem-solving skills, and learn to relate better with others.

To become an RPT, individuals must have completed at least 500 hours of supervised play therapy experience in addition to having a master's degree or higher in counseling or psychology. They must also pass an examination administered by the Association for Play Therapy (APT). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to the principles and practice of play therapy.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on APT membership status; however, it typically ranges from $125-$200. The exam can be taken online or at one of several testing centers across the United States.

In addition to passing the exam, RPTs must also maintain continuing education credits in order to remain certified. This typically involves attending conferences, workshops, or other events related to play therapy every two years. The cost for these events varies depending on location and type of event but usually ranges from $50-$300 per event.

6. Licensed Professional Counselor with a Specialty in Child Psychology (LPC-CP)

A Licensed Professional Counselor with a Specialty in Child Psychology (LPC-CP) is a mental health professional who provides counseling services to children and adolescents. They specialize in helping children and adolescents address emotional, behavioral, and social issues that may be impacting their life. They also provide support for parents and families as they work through challenging times.

In order to become an LPC-CP, individuals must first complete a master’s degree in counseling or psychology from an accredited college or university. After completing the degree program, individuals must then pass the National Counselor Exam (NCE) administered by the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC). Once the NCE is successfully completed, individuals can apply for licensure in their state of residence.

The cost of becoming an LPC-CP varies depending on the individual’s educational background and other factors such as exam fees and licensing fees. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from two to four years to complete all of the necessary steps to become an LPC-CP.

In addition to education and testing requirements, individuals must also complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience working with children before they can be licensed as an LPC-CP. This experience must be obtained under the supervision of a qualified supervisor who is approved by the NBCC or state board where licensure is sought.

Once all of these requirements have been met, individuals can apply for licensure as an LPC-CP in their state of residence. The cost for this varies depending on each state's requirements but generally ranges between $100-$200 per year.

7. Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for Children and Adolescents (CCBT-CA)

Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for Children and Adolescents (CCBT-CA) is a specialized certification that allows therapists to provide evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to children and adolescents. CBT is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify, understand, and change negative thinking patterns, behavior, and emotions. CBT has been proven to be effective in treating a variety of mental health issues in children and adolescents including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, eating disorders, substance abuse, and more.

In order to become certified as a CCBT-CA therapist one must complete an accredited training program in CBT for children and adolescents. These programs typically require completion of at least 30 hours of coursework or supervised clinical practice with children or adolescents. After completing the required training program one must then pass the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) exam in order to receive the CCBT-CA certification.

The cost of becoming a CCBT-CA therapist varies depending on the training program chosen. Generally speaking these programs range from $500-$2,000 depending on the length of the program and any additional fees associated with it such as textbooks or materials.

In addition to completing an accredited training program and passing the NBCC exam there are also other requirements that must be met in order to become certified as a CCBT-CA therapist such as having two years of postgraduate experience working with children or adolescents under supervision from another licensed mental health professional.

Overall becoming certified as a CCBT-CA therapist can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on how quickly one completes their training program and passes the NBCC exam.

8. Board Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for Children and Adolescents (BCCBT-CA)

Board Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist for Children and Adolescents (BCCBT-CA) is a certification program provided by the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. The certification is designed to recognize mental health professionals who have achieved a high level of competency in the practice of cognitive-behavioral therapy with children and adolescents.

The certification process includes a written examination, an oral examination, and a review of the applicant's clinical practice. The written exam consists of multiple choice questions related to cognitive-behavioral theory, research, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. The oral exam includes an interview with two or more board certified cognitive behavioral therapists who assess the applicant's knowledge and skills in applying cognitive-behavioral principles to clinical practice.

In order to become board certified, applicants must meet specific educational requirements including a master’s degree in psychology or counseling from an accredited institution and at least three years of post-master’s supervised experience working with children and adolescents in a mental health setting. Applicants must also complete at least 40 hours of continuing education related to cognitive-behavioral therapy within the past five years prior to applying for certification.

The cost for BCCBT-CA certification varies depending on the type of application submitted (e.g., initial application vs. renewal). Generally speaking, initial applications are $500 USD while renewal applications are $400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the written or oral exams which can range from $50-$200 USD depending on the type of exam taken.

Overall, it typically takes between 6 months - 1 year to complete all aspects of the certification process including completing all educational requirements, submitting an application packet for review by the Board Certification Committee, taking any necessary exams (written/oral), and receiving final approval from the Board Certification Committee.

9. American Board of Professional Psychology – Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology (ABPP-CCAP)

The American Board of Professional Psychology – Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology (ABPP-CCAP) is a board certification program for psychologists who specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health issues in children and adolescents. This certification is offered by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), which is a non-profit organization that provides board certification to qualified professionals in psychology.

In order to obtain this certification, applicants must have completed an accredited doctoral program in clinical child and adolescent psychology, have at least two years of supervised postdoctoral experience working with children and adolescents, and pass a written examination. The written exam covers topics such as child development, psychopathology, assessment and diagnosis, psychotherapy, consultation/collaboration, research methods/statistics/ethics/professional issues, and professional practice management.

It typically takes between two to four years to complete all of the requirements for ABPP-CCAP certification. The cost of the application fee is $400 plus any additional fees associated with taking the written examination. Additionally, ABPP-CCAP certified psychologists must participate in continuing education activities each year in order to maintain their certification status.

10. American Psychological Association – Division 53 – Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (APA-Div53-CCAP).

The American Psychological Association – Division 53 – Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (APA-Div53-CCAP) is an organization of psychologists who specialize in the practice of clinical child and adolescent psychology. The organization provides a forum for professional development, advocacy, and collaboration among its members. It also serves as a resource for the public to learn about the field of clinical child and adolescent psychology.

To become a member of APA-Div53-CCAP, you must have earned a doctoral degree in clinical child and adolescent psychology from an accredited program. You must also be licensed to practice in your state or country. Membership applications are available online through the APA website.

It usually takes two to three weeks for your membership application to be processed by the APA after it has been submitted. Once approved, you will receive an email confirming your membership status with instructions on how to access the members-only area of the website.

The cost of joining APA-Div53-CCAP is $125 per year for regular members, $50 per year for student members, and $25 per year for retired members. This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with running the organization, such as maintaining the website and organizing events.

Do You Really Need a Child Psychologist Certificate?

This is a difficult question to answer, as it depends on your individual circumstances and goals. If you are looking to work in the field of child psychology, then a certificate may be beneficial as it can provide you with additional knowledge and skills that may help you stand out from other applicants. However, if you already have a degree in psychology or a related field, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain a certificate.

If your main goal is to continue to learn more about child psychology and gain an understanding of the latest research and theories related to this field, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial. The courses included in these certificates typically focus on topics such as child development, mental health disorders, learning disabilities, family dynamics, and therapeutic interventions. These courses can provide an excellent foundation for furthering your knowledge of this field and gaining insight into how best to help children who are struggling with mental health issues.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Child Psychologist Certificate depends on your individual goals. If you are looking to work in the field of child psychology or gain further knowledge in this area, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial. However, if you already have the necessary qualifications and experience to work in this field without one, then it may not be necessary for you.

Related: Child Psychologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Child Psychologist Certifications

1. How do I become a certified child psychologist?

Answer: To become a certified child psychologist, you must obtain a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and complete supervised residency training in clinical child psychology. After completing the requirements, you must then pass an examination administered by the American Board of Professional Psychology.

2. Is there a difference between adult and child psychology certifications?

Answer: Yes, there is a difference between adult and child psychology certifications. The American Board of Professional Psychology offers specialty certification in Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology for those who have completed doctoral-level training and experience in the field.

3. What type of education do I need to earn a certification in child psychology?

Answer: To earn a certification in child psychology, you must first obtain a doctoral degree in clinical or counseling psychology from an accredited university or college. Then, you must complete supervised residency training in clinical child psychology, followed by passing an examination administered by the American Board of Professional Psychology.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a child psychologist?

Answer: It typically takes three to four years to complete all the necessary requirements for certification as a child psychologist, including obtaining a doctoral degree, completing supervised residency training and passing an exam administered by the American Board of Professional Psychology.

5. What is the cost associated with becoming certified as a child psychologist?

Answer: The cost associated with becoming certified as a child psychologist varies depending on factors such as tuition fees for your doctoral program and any fees associated with taking your certification exam through the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP).