Top 11 Clinical Psychologist Certifications

Certifications are an important factor in the job market for a clinical psychologist. They demonstrate that the professional has met certain standards of training and competence, which is important to employers when it comes to hiring qualified professionals. Certifications provide evidence of a psychologist’s expertise and knowledge in their field, which can be used to assess their suitability for a particular role. They also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development, which is essential for any career in psychology. Overall, certifications can give clinical psychologists an edge over other applicants in the job market, as they provide proof of their qualifications and experience.

This article reviews the most beneficial certifications for Clinical Psychologists, and explains how they can help advance their career.

What are Clinical Psychologist Certifications?

Clinical psychologist certification is a process that ensures that clinical psychologists have the necessary qualifications and experience to practice in their field. It involves passing a comprehensive written examination as well as meeting certain educational, supervised practice, and ethical standards. This certification helps ensure that clinical psychologists are qualified to provide quality mental health services to their clients.

The primary benefit of this certification is that it provides assurance to potential clients that the clinical psychologist they are considering for treatment meets the minimum standards required by the profession. Certification also demonstrates to employers and other professionals that the individual has met the highest standards for knowledge and skills in providing psychological services. Additionally, certification can help protect both clients and practitioners from unprofessional behavior or unsatisfactory performance by providing an objective measure of competence. Finally, obtaining certification may be a requirement for licensure in some states, which is necessary for independent practice.

Pro Tip: Clinical psychologist certification requires extensive training and education. Make sure to research the requirements in your state or country before beginning the process, as they can vary significantly. Additionally, look into any professional organizations that offer additional certifications or resources to help you in your journey.

Related: What does a Clinical Psychologist do?

Top 11 Clinical Psychologist Certifications

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

1. Licensed Clinical Psychologist

A Licensed Clinical Psychologist is a mental health professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness and emotional disturbances. They provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. To become a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP), one must have a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited university program, complete a supervised clinical internship, pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), and obtain state licensure. Depending on the state requirements, additional exams may be required. The length of time it takes to become an LCP varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from five to seven years after completing undergraduate studies to obtain the necessary credentials.

In terms of cost, there are several factors that will affect how much it will cost to become an LCP. These include tuition costs for graduate school programs; fees associated with taking the EPPP; travel costs for internships; and any other fees associated with obtaining licensure in your state. Additionally, some states require continuing education credits or other requirements for renewal of licensure which may incur additional costs as well.

2. Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist

Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CCBT) is a type of mental health professional who has specialized training in the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals recognize and address distorted thinking patterns, behaviors, and emotions that can lead to psychological distress. CCBTs are certified by an independent organization called the Academy of Cognitive Therapy (ACT), which provides rigorous training and certification for mental health professionals.

It typically takes approximately two years to become a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CCBT). During this time, individuals must complete a minimum of 200 hours of supervised clinical experience, as well as additional coursework and examinations. The ACT also offers advanced certifications for those who have completed additional coursework and/or research.

To become a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, one must first complete the necessary educational requirements. This includes earning a master’s degree in psychology or another related field from an accredited college or university. After completing the educational requirements, individuals must then pass the ACT Certification Exam to become certified as a CCBT.

The cost for becoming a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $1,500 - $3,000 to become certified through the ACT Certification Program. This cost includes all required course materials, exams fees, and any other associated costs.

3. Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a professional certification in behavior analysis. The BCBA is a credential that recognizes individuals who have met specific standards of knowledge and experience in the field of behavior analysis. It is awarded by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB), an independent organization that provides certification for professionals in the field of behavior analysis.

It typically takes about two to three years to become a BCBA. This includes completing a master's degree program in Applied Behavior Analysis, passing the BACB exam, and obtaining supervised experience working with clients. To be eligible to take the BACB exam, applicants must first meet certain educational and experiential requirements.

The cost of becoming a BCBA varies depending on the individual's educational background and experience level. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more to become certified as a BCBA. This includes tuition for coursework, fees for taking the BACB exam, and any other associated costs such as travel or materials needed for study.

To get started on the path towards becoming a BCBA, individuals should first research accredited master's degree programs in Applied Behavior Analysis and determine which one best fits their needs. After completing their master's degree program, they can then apply to take the BACB exam and begin gaining supervised experience working with clients before finally taking the test and earning their certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

4. Diplomate in Clinical Psychology

Diplomate in Clinical Psychology is a post-doctoral certification awarded by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). It is the highest level of professional recognition for clinical psychologists, and it indicates that an individual has achieved mastery in the field. The Diplomate designation is recognized by many state licensing boards as a sign of advanced knowledge and experience.

To obtain a Diplomate in Clinical Psychology, an individual must have completed all requirements for a doctoral degree in psychology, including an accredited internship and supervised experience. In addition, they must have passed the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) administered by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). After passing the EPPP, applicants must then submit their credentials to ABPP for review.

The process typically takes between two to four years to complete depending on how quickly one can complete all required steps. The cost to obtain a Diplomate in Clinical Psychology varies based on each individual’s circumstances, but generally ranges from $1,000-$3,000. This includes registration fees for the EPPP exam as well as any additional fees associated with submitting credentials to ABPP for review.

5. Certified Health Service Psychologist

A Certified Health Service Psychologist (HSP) is a mental health professional who has achieved a specialty certification from the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). The HSP credential is awarded to psychologists who have met rigorous standards in the areas of clinical practice, research, and teaching. To become certified as an HSP, a psychologist must have completed at least two years of post-doctoral experience in health service psychology, pass an examination administered by ABPP, and maintain continuing education requirements.

It typically takes several years to complete the requirements for certification as an HSP. First, a psychologist must obtain a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited university or college. Then they must complete two years of supervised post-doctoral training in health service psychology. During this time, they must also complete coursework related to health service psychology including topics such as psychopharmacology and ethical issues in healthcare settings. After completing the required training and coursework, applicants can then take the ABPP exam which tests their knowledge and skills related to health service psychology. Once they pass the exam, they can apply for certification as an HSP.

To get certified as an HSP, you will need to submit your application along with supporting documents such as transcripts showing your doctoral degree in psychology and proof that you have completed two years of supervised post-doctoral experience in health service psychology. You will also need to pay a fee which varies depending on your level of experience and type of certification you are seeking. The cost typically ranges from $500 - $1,000 USD but may be higher depending on your circumstances.

Overall, becoming certified as an HSP requires significant effort and dedication but can be well worth it for those looking to specialize in providing mental health services within healthcare settings.

6. Certified Psycho-Educational Specialist

A Certified Psycho-Educational Specialist (CPS) is a mental health professional who specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of learning disabilities and other psychological or educational issues. CPSs are trained to assess and diagnose learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), emotional disturbances, autism spectrum disorders, and other related conditions. They also provide educational interventions for students with special needs.

The certification process typically takes about two years to complete. To become certified, individuals must first obtain a master's degree in psychology or a related field from an accredited college or university. After completing their degree, they must then pass the National Certification Examination for Psycho-Educational Specialists administered by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). The exam consists of three sections: cognitive assessment, psychoeducational assessment, and clinical intervention. Once they have passed the exam, they are eligible to apply for state licensure as a CPS.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the school attended and the type of program chosen. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 to complete all required coursework and exams necessary for certification. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for licensure or continuing education credits in order to maintain certification status.

7. Licensed Professional Counselor

A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who has achieved licensure in their respective state. LPCs are trained to provide counseling and psychotherapy services for individuals, couples, families, and groups. They work with clients to help them identify and address mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, substance abuse, and more.

It typically takes between two to four years of post-graduate study to become an LPC. This includes completing a master's degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited university or college. In addition to the educational requirements, individuals must also complete a supervised clinical experience and pass a licensing exam in order to obtain their license.

The cost of becoming an LPC varies depending on the state where you live and the type of program you choose. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $10,000-$25,000 for tuition alone. Additional costs may include books and materials as well as licensing fees.

To become an LPC in most states you will need to:

1) Obtain a master's degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited university or college;

2) Complete a supervised clinical experience;

3) Pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE);

4) Apply for your state’s license;

5) Pass any additional exams required by your state;

6) Maintain continuing education requirements; and

7) Renew your license every few years.

8. National Certified Counselor

National Certified Counselor (NCC) is a professional certification granted by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). It is designed to recognize professional counselors who have met the highest standards of counseling practice and ethical conduct.

To become an NCC, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling from a regionally accredited college or university;
• Have at least 3,000 hours of supervised clinical experience;
• Pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE);
• Pass the NBCC-approved Jurisprudence Examination; and
• Submit a completed application to the NBCC.

The process of becoming an NCC can take several months depending on how quickly you complete all of the requirements. Once you have submitted your application, it typically takes four to six weeks for your application to be reviewed and approved. If you are approved, you will receive your certificate in approximately two weeks.

The cost of becoming an NCC varies depending on which state you live in. Generally, it costs between $200-$500 to become an NCC. This includes fees for taking the NCE and Jurisprudence Exam as well as any applicable state licensing fees.

9. American Board of Professional Psychology Diplomate

The American Board of Professional Psychology Diplomate (ABPP) is a professional credential awarded by the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP). It is the highest level of certification available in the field of psychology and signifies that an individual has achieved a high level of expertise in their chosen specialty.

To become eligible for the ABPP Diplomate, individuals must have completed a doctoral degree from an accredited university, have at least five years of post-doctoral experience in their specialty area, and be licensed to practice psychology in their state. Additionally, applicants must pass an extensive written examination and submit evidence of continuing education credits.

The process to obtain the ABPP Diplomate typically takes between two and three years. During this time, applicants must complete all necessary requirements and submit all required documentation to ABPP for review. Once approved, applicants will receive their official ABPP Diplomate certificate.

The cost to apply for the ABPP Diplomate varies depending on which specialty area you are applying for. Generally speaking, fees range from $400-$600 per application.

10. Registered Play Therapist

Registered Play Therapist (RPT) is a credentialed mental health professional who has received specialized training in the use of play therapy techniques to help children and adolescents. Play therapy is an evidence-based, child-centered form of psychotherapy that uses play as a medium for communication and expression. It provides a safe environment for children to express their feelings, work through difficult experiences, and learn new skills.

In order to become an RPT, one must have at least a master’s degree in counseling or psychology from an accredited institution, meet all requirements of the Association for Play Therapy (APT), and pass the APT Certification Examination. The APT requires candidates to complete at least 200 hours of postgraduate supervised play therapy experience and complete 45 hours of coursework specific to play therapy.

The cost of becoming an RPT varies depending on the individual’s educational background and other factors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,500-$3,000 to become certified as an RPT. This includes the cost of tuition for coursework, textbooks, registration fees for exams, supervision costs, and any additional fees associated with maintaining certification.

It typically takes about two years to become an RPT if all requirements are met in a timely manner. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances such as prior education or experience in related fields.

11. Board Certified Neuropsychologist

A Board Certified Neuropsychologist is a professional who specializes in the study of the brain and behavior. They are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat neurological and psychological disorders that affect cognitive functioning, including memory, learning, language, attention, executive functioning, motor skills, and emotional regulation.

It typically takes 5-7 years of post-doctoral education to become board certified in neuropsychology. This includes obtaining a doctoral degree in psychology or neuroscience from an accredited university or college; completing a one year pre-doctoral internship; completing two years of supervised post-doctoral training; passing the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP); and obtaining state licensure.

To get board certified in neuropsychology you must first complete all the necessary steps outlined above. After that you must apply to take the American Board of Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN) examination. The ABCN exam is administered twice each year and consists of both written and oral components. Once you have successfully passed the exam you can then apply for board certification with the American Board of Professional Neuropsychology (ABPN).

The cost for taking the ABCN exam is approximately $1,000 plus any additional fees associated with your application process. Additionally, if you are applying for board certification with ABPN there may be additional fees associated with this process as well.

Do You Really Need a Clinical Psychologist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a clinical psychologist certificate depends on your own personal goals. If you want to pursue a career as a clinical psychologist, then obtaining a certificate is essential. Clinical psychologists are required to have a doctoral degree in psychology, and in many states, they must also have earned a specialized certification in order to practice. A certificate in clinical psychology can help demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills needed to be successful in this field.

However, if you’re looking for an entry-level position in the mental health field or are simply interested in learning more about psychological theories and counseling techniques, then earning a certificate may not be necessary. There are many other courses and certifications that may provide you with the same knowledge and skills while allowing you to gain experience working with clients without having to invest the time and money into obtaining a full doctorate degree.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not you need a clinical psychologist certificate based on your individual goals. If you’re looking for more specialized training to become a clinical psychologist, then it’s probably worth investing the time into earning one. However, if your goal is simply to gain knowledge about psychological theories and counseling techniques without pursuing licensure as a clinician, then there are likely other options available that will meet your needs without requiring such an extensive commitment of time and money.

Related: Clinical Psychologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Clinical Psychologist Certifications

Q1: What is a clinical psychologist certification?

A1: Clinical psychologist certification is an advanced credential that recognizes individuals who have met specific educational and experience requirements in the field of psychology. The certification demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and provides an additional layer of credibility for those professionals working in the mental health field.

Q2: What are the requirements for becoming a certified clinical psychologist?

A2: Generally, applicants must hold a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited university, pass a comprehensive written examination, and possess supervised clinical experience in the field. In addition, some states may require additional education or training in order to obtain certification.

Q3: How long does it take to become certified?

A3: It can take up to five years or more depending on the individual's educational and experience background.

Q4: Is there any continuing education required to maintain my certification?

A4: Yes, most certifying organizations require that clinicians complete continuing education courses on a regular basis in order to remain certified.

Q5: Are there any other benefits associated with being certified?

A5: Yes, many employers prefer to hire clinicians who have obtained certification as it indicates a higher level of expertise and dedication to their profession. Additionally, becoming certified can open up opportunities for career advancement within your organization or practice setting.