Eligibility for the Diplomate in School Neuropsychology credential
The American Board of School Neuropsychology (ABSNP) recognizes that professionals acquire expertise in school neuropsychology through diverse academic and professional pathways. The Board's goal is to assess and verify competency through a credential review and rigorous examination process that balances ecological validity, academic rigor, and flexibility. Eligible candidates must meet one of the following educational and training pathways:
- Doctoral Training in School Psychology with Neuropsychology Specialization
Candidates who have earned a doctoral degree in School Psychology with a specialization in school or pediatric neuropsychology are eligible, provided they have documented supervised experience working with children and adolescents in the field.
- • Doctoral Training in Clinical Psychology with Pediatric Neuropsychology Specialization
Candidates with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology, specializing in pediatric neuropsychology, may also apply if they have documented supervised experience working with children in a clinical or educational setting.
- • Doctoral Training with Post-Graduate Certification
Individuals with a doctoral degree in School Psychology or Clinical Psychology who do not have a specialization in pediatric neuropsychology during their doctoral training are eligible if they complete a competency-based post-graduate certification program in school neuropsychology. Programs like the School Neuropsychology Institute’s Post-Graduate Certification Program (www.schoolneuropsych.com) fulfill this requirement.
- • Specialist-Level Training with Post-Graduate Certification
Candidates who have obtained a specialist-level degree in School Psychology (e.g., Ed.S.) are also eligible if they subsequently complete a post-graduate certification program in school neuropsychology, such as the one offered by the School Neuropsychology Institute.
Candidates who do not clearly fit within these categories are encouraged to contact the Board to discuss their background and determine whether they are eligible to apply for the Diplomate credential.
By accommodating a range of professional backgrounds while maintaining rigorous standards, ABSNP ensures that certified Diplomates demonstrate a comprehensive and practical mastery of school neuropsychology, equipping them to provide evidence-based services to students.