Opinions About the Certification Exam
by College of Professional Psychology
Psychologists who have taken the examination for the Certificate of Proficiency have shared their experience with us. Here are some quotes from your colleagues.
"I took the exam without difficulty. It is as represented, an experienced clinician should have the body of knowledge needed to pass the exam. I found it to have a diversity of clinical, theory, and research questions. If you have been doing work in this field for any period of time, I wouldn’t worry too much about special prep."
"Every psychologist should be taking this exam. Issues of addictions are the most overlooked by psychologists and relegated to secondary importance in favor of therapy. I found the studying process to be immensely valuable in my clinical practice, and I consider myself a veteran and accomplished psychologist in the treatment of addictions with over 15 years experience. As a result of my studying [and] preparation for this exam I believe my clinical interventions improved. Thank you for this opportunity."
"I took the APA substance exam and found the test to be probably the most clinically relevant exam I have ever taken. It was almost enjoyable. It clearly sampled the knowledge domains for substance abuse. It also required one to apply the information clinically."
"I recently had the opportunity to take the examination for the Certificate of Proficiency . . . I was very impressed with the breadth of coverage, clarity of questions, and procedures for both administrative preparation and admission to the examination. Clearly, a great deal of time and effort has gone into the development of an instrument designed to assure a solid foundation of knowledge for those receiving certification."
"Test covered objectives/areas well. Guidance for test preparation and references for study [Candidate Guide] was useful."
"I found the content very comprehensive, yet fair."
"A very well constructed exam. Nice work on the part of those who designed it!"
"A comprehensive and fair coverage of the relevant information on substance abuse/dependence treatment."
"I appreciated that the format was treatment and prevention oriented."
"I’m impressed that the exam did a good job integrating good basic clinical knowledge with facts about substance abuse."
"This was a great way to take a test!"
"I’m pleased with the flexibility that this computerized testing facility provides."
"Administration was excellent . . . staff very cooperative . . . computer easy to work."
"The staff person at the testing center was exceptionally helpful and promulgated a sense of low stress and was quick to answer any questions."
"I like paper and pencil tests, but if you are going to take a computer test this [Sylvan Technology Center] is a good place to do it."
"I especially appreciated the location and availability of times for testing."
"This was a totally positive experience."
"A terrific program and a terrific move by APA!"
