The ABRxP represents an important step forward in the recognition and advancement of psychologists with specialized training and expertise in psychopharmacological psychology. With the board now open for applications, qualified psychologists are invited to be part of this exciting development by applying for this certification.
The board was developed by the Division 55 ABPP Taskforce, commissioned following APA approval of clinical psychopharmacology as a specialty in psychology in 2020. The process of establishing a new ABPP board involved several steps and presentations to the ABPP Board of Trustees that included a brief proposal, a formal application, and approval of implementation phase materials. The process also involved a survey of members and interested parties, as well as letters of support requested by the ABPP Board of Trustees. Division 55 supported these steps and paid the required fees for the creation of the board. The process spanned 5 years from the initial taskforce formation in 2020 to ABPP approving the establishment of the board in 2025. As of August 2026, the 7 inaugural board members have been certified.
Eligibility for ABRxP initially involves generic credentialling by ABPP. Required specialty-specific credentials include the Masters Degree in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP) or equivalent, a passing score on the Psychopharmacology Examination for Psychologists (PEP), and documentation of at least 100-hours of supervised practice in psychopharmacological psychology. The practice sample for the standard option involves a reflection on 2 clinical cases (prescribing or consulting) from the past 2 years, in addition to deidentified notes, that demonstrate the foundational competencies in assessment, consultation, and intervention. The practice sample for the senior option involves a reflection of career contributions to psychopharmacological psychology and at least 4 samples of work in specific categories. Applicants do not need to have prescriptive authority for the ABRxP, but those with independent prescriptive authority or an advanced practice medical psychology license meet specialty-specific criteria immediately. The oral examination includes discussion of professional identity and practice samples, a de novo fact finding case, and an ethics/law and professional standards scenario. Detailed information is available on abpp.org.
Board certification through the ABRxP will signify that a psychologist has demonstrated advanced knowledge, skills, and professional competence in psychopharmacological psychology through a rigorous process of education, training, experience, and examination. It provides meaningful recognition by professional peers while assuring the public and the profession that the individual has met established standards for specialty practice.
The creation of the ABRxP represents an important step in the maturation of psychopharmacological psychology as a recognized specialty within professional psychology. By establishing national standards for specialty-level competence and creating a formal pathway for board certification, the ABRxP helps define the future of the field, strengthens professional identity, promotes excellence in clinical practice, and provides a foundation for continued growth and recognition of psychologists practicing psychopharmacological psychology.
