Board of Psychologist Examiners

This report addresses how well the Board fulfills its responsibilities, specifically focusing on problems the Board experienced with its oral exam. The report found that the Board is generally efficient and effective. The Board issues licenses in a timely manner, resolves complaints appropriately and in a timely manner, and provides accurate and complete information to consumers that is easily accessible.

However, we found problems with the oral exam the Board required licensure candidates to pass as the final step to receive a license. Review of the last three sets of exams showed that examiners repeatedly made mistakes in evaluating candidate responses. In the July 1998 oral exam, the Board initially failed, but later passed, 9 of the 28 candidates. We present four options to the Board including improving, replacing, or discontinuing the exam. At its June 1999 meeting, the Board voted to discontinue its oral exam due to a lack of resources to continue and enhance it.