Basically, there are three components as defined by the Specialty Board in Counseling Psychology. The first component asks for a review of your formal education, training, and work experience. The second component involves the preparation and submission of a work sample. The third component involves an examination of your work as a practitioner. The three components are sensitive to issues of race, gender, age, and cultural diversity.
People go through the process for a variety of reasons.
For many, the ABPP Diplomate enhances job promotion prospects. For those in the military, there is a financial incentive. Virtually all applicants comment about the value of the process in helping to take a close look at what they actually do as counseling psychologists. In short, the process promotes professional and personal development. Any of the current or past officers of the Academy of Counseling Psychology will be happy to help with questions prior to applying.