Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Forensic Psychology Board Certification
The American Board Of Professional Psychology (ABFP) is dedicated to advancing the highest standards of professional competence in forensic psychology. Established as a specialty board under the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP), we ensure that certified professionals meet rigorous criteria through a comprehensive evaluation process. Our mission is to uphold the integrity of forensic psychology by certifying specialists who demonstrate expertise in applying psychological principles to legal contexts. With a certification process rooted in ethical, theoretical, and legal foundations, our board-certified psychologists are recognized in judicial systems nationwide. Our work fosters public trust by maintaining transparency, accountability, and excellence in forensic practice.We collaborate with affiliated organizations, such as the American Academy of Forensic Psychology, to promote research, education, and professional development. Our board comprises experienced clinicians and academics who contribute to shaping the field through leadership and innovation. Since our inception, we have prioritized rigorous oral examinations and practice sample reviews to validate candidates' competencies. Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures that forensic psychology remains a respected and evolving discipline. By certifying only qualified professionals, we safeguard the public interest and support the legal system's reliance on expert psychological testimony.
Details
- Year established: 1947
Highlights and features
- We uphold the most rigorous certification standards in forensic psychology.
- Our board-certified specialists are recognized in judicial systems nationwide.
- We require comprehensive practice sample reviews and oral examinations.
- Our board includes leading experts with decades of forensic experience.
- We collaborate with academic institutions to advance forensic research and education.
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP)
Services
Board Certification in Forensic Psychology
Board certification validates forensic psychologists' expertise in legal and psychological domains. Our process involves rigorous credential reviews, practice sample evaluations, and oral examinations conducted by seasoned professionals. This certification ensures practitioners meet nationally recognized standards for competence in forensic psychology.
People
Martha Smith
President and Treasurer
Director of the Center for Forensic Psychiatry with over 20 years of clinical and forensic evaluation experience. Leads ABFP's strategic initiatives and certification oversight.
Julie Gallagher
President-Elect
Specializing in forensic assessments and expert testimony, she directs national examination processes and contributes to forensic practice guidelines.
Kostas A. Katsavdakis
Corresponding Secretary
Coordinates ABFP's administrative operations and serves as liaison between committees, ensuring efficient certification workflows.
Randy Otto
Executive Director
Professor and clinical director with expertise in forensic assessment practices. Oversees ABFP's operational governance and academic partnerships.
James W. Mikesell
AAFP President
Advances forensic psychology education through AAFP's continuing education programs and awards initiatives, fostering professional growth.
Questions
What is forensic psychology?
Forensic psychology applies psychological principles to legal issues, including evaluations, expert testimony, and research within judicial systems.
How do I become board-certified in forensic psychology?
Candidates must demonstrate expertise through credential reviews, practice samples, and oral examinations administered by ABFP.
What does ABFP certification signify?
ABFP certification recognizes psychologists who meet the highest standards of competence in forensic practice, as endorsed by ABPP.
How can I find a forensic psychology specialist?
Use ABFP's directory to locate certified specialists by geographic area or sub-specialty expertise.
Is board certification equivalent to state licensure?
No. Certification demonstrates specialized forensic competence beyond general state licensure requirements.
What role does AAFP play in forensic psychology?
The American Academy of Forensic Psychology provides continuing education programs and promotes research advancements in the field.
