Experience Counts: Why ABP Certification Was Worthwhile

By Sandra Buchan. 

I have always considered my career to be somewhat unique. I studied psychology at university and initially planned to follow the traditional route to become a Clinical Psychologist: a few Assistant Psychologist positions, another qualification, and hours of supervised training. But as life happened and as the saying goes, ‘all the best laid plans…’, my career took a different route and I found myself in healthcare management.  

I always felt that my psychology background was a strength and helped me to become the values-led leader I am today. It wasn’t until I came to a crossroads in my career that I reflected on who I am and my professional identity. I had always been a psychologist, I just didn’t have the ‘label’.  

Finding the Route for Me 

Once again, I looked into the traditional route of chartership. Even with my extensive experience and qualifications, I did not meet the requirements. There was no flexibility. If you didn’t study a particular degree at a certain university, it was a case of ‘computer says no’. With four degrees already under my belt, I didn’t feel I needed to undertake another one just to tick a box.  

It seemed my ambition of becoming a psychologist had been foiled before it had even begun. Or so I thought.  

It wasn’t until I met an ABP representative at a conference that I realised an organisation existed that valued experience as much as qualifications. I became a member that very evening. I always tell Dr Stewart Desson that I will never forget that conversation, as it was the first time I truly felt I had found my professional home. 

The ABP Certification Process 

I was under no illusion when I decided to become certified with the ABP that it was going to be a rigorous process. I was sent the documentation to complete prior to my initial meeting with my mentor. It was quite daunting, and honestly, I wondered where I would begin, and whether I had enough case studies to write about.  

Choosing a Mentor 

I was given a choice of mentors, which I appreciated as I was able to select someone whose experience closely matched mine. I met with Debbie Hance, and she was invaluable throughout the whole process. I cannot rate Debbie highly enough, she is an amazing mentor and I was lucky to be paired with her for this process. 

Submission Pieces 

It’s important to say at this point that the required submission pieces are not tick-box exercises. They are a way for the panel to assess your competencies, experience and suitability to the ABP. Do not think that this is something you can rush through. In addition, there is a very strict word count. This is what I found the most difficult, as I wanted to give justice to the many years of experience and complex situations I was writing about – to be told that I only had 500 words! 

The submission work is there to make you reflect on your application of Business Psychology principles – and your mentor will definitely make sure you do exactly that. They are there to give you advice and feedback to ensure your application is as strong as possible. Be prepared for many iterations and constructive challenge.  

Timeframes 

In our first session, Debbie informed me that the process could take up to a year, but that if I had more time to commit to it, it could be done faster. I started my journey in June 2024 and submitted my application in September 2024. I had my panel interview in October 2024, taking five months to reach that point.  

The Panel Interview 

I was nervous at my panel interview. Despite several mock interviews with Debbie, I knew my tendency to over-explain might get the better of me – and it did. I wasn’t able to answer all of the panel’s questions in the time allowed. The outcome: Further evidence required. I was asked to provide more detail in several key areas for the panel to be satisfied with the certification level which I was applying for.  

That was a tough blow. After all the work, time and personal growth I had invested, I still had more to do.  But I dealt with the disappointment and submitted the additional evidence the panel had requested.  

Achieving Certification 

I am proud to say that I was awarded Certified Principal Business Psychologist status in December 2024.  

My current position does not require this certification, nor is it my official job description. For me, this is my identity and recognises the expertise that I bring to every role. It was important to me because this ‘label’ is what describes me. I am someone who applies Business Psychology principles in my work, whether that is assessing an organisation’s culture or developing a performance management framework.  

What to Expect from ABP Business Psychologist Certification 

My advice to anyone considering the certification process is this: don’t go into it thinking it is a quick tick-box exercise. It is a rigorous, purposeful process.

When you receive your certification, you will know you have earned it and you will be proud to have achieved it. The panel interview felt like a mini doctorate viva – you will be quizzed on your experience and application of psychological practice. They are not there to hold your hand, they are there to assess your ability to truly represent The ABP.  

If, like me, you have found the traditional route to becoming a psychologist too rigid, The ABP is for you. It is an organisation that is aligned to modern-day working and one that values experience as much as qualifications. Don’t expect the process to be easy, but you won’t regret it when you have finished.  

About the Author 

Sandra is Managing Director of Culture & Engagement Experts Ltd, a Certified Principal Business Psychologist, and Trustee of the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers. With over 23 years of senior leadership experience across health, social care, and the public sector, she specialises in organisational culture, workforce strategy, and inclusive leadership. Sandra has held NHS board roles, led national workforce initiatives, and advised on cultural transformation for diverse organisations. A values-led leader and PhD candidate, she is passionate about creating workplaces where people feel valued and can thrive – especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.