Interview With a Board Certified Specialist

Tony Wu obtained his B.A., M.S., Ed.S., and PhD degrees from Indiana University at Bloomington.  He is a graduate of the School Psychology program, and has presented extensively at conferences and published in the field of psychology and education.

Tony has a private practice where he specializes in psychological testing and psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults.  Tony is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist and has obtained the Specialist status by the American Board of Professional Psychology.  He is often called upon to provide consultation to school psychologists, educators, and other professionals.  Tony has practiced as a licensed psychologist and school psychologist for 8 years, and is currently employed in a large county office of education that serves preschool age children.

Throughout his career, he has supervised and mentored school psychology practicum students and interns. Tony has served the American Psychological Association (APA) for the past few years as a member of the Continuing Education Committee and a member of an APA Presidential Task force.  In various capacities, he has promoted ongoing professional development among licensed psychologists, school psychologists, and educators.  Furthermore, he has been a faculty member for various universities teaching graduate level courses in psychology and education.  He is also a board member of American Board of School Psychology.

Q. What motivated you to seek board certification in school psychology?
A.  I was inspired to seek board certification in school psychology by my graduate school professor, Thomas Huberty, PhD, ABPP. Dr. Huberty convinced me that by obtaining the board certification, I would best represent the field of school psychology and serve the public with most competence and integrity.  He also explained the professional benefits, such as licensing reciprocity, contracting with health insurance companies, and opportunities for professional development.
 
Q. What have you found most valuable or rewarding about board certification?
A.  Personal satisfaction and professional competence has been the most rewarding in the attainment of board certification.  Going through this process was a humbling experience, as I learned so much from my colleagues about the professional practice of school psychology.  Being able to exchange ideas with colleagues who are experts in the field has been the most valuable. 

Q. What advice would you give to a candidate for board certification in school psychology?
A.  My advice to school psychologists considering board certification is to embrace the process.  Your assigned mentor and other colleagues will be extremely supportive which will guide you through the steps.  You will meet the most amazing psychologists in your professional career.

Q. What is the most interesting/challenging/rewarding/fulfilling aspect of your work as a psychologist?
A. The most rewarding aspect of my work as a school psychologist is the opportunity to ensure that the 24,000 children who receive early education and intervention services have access to and receive high quality mental health services when they need in a diverse county.