EPPP Content Areas

KN1. Functional correlates and determinants of the neurobiological and genetic bases of behavior pertaining to perception, cognition, personality, and mood and affect in normal, acute and chronic neurobehavioral disease processes and disease, comorbidities.

KN2. Drug classification, mechanisms of action, and desired/adverse effects of therapeutic agents, drugs of abuse, and complementary or alternative agents.

KN3. Results from major trials and general guidelines for pharmacological,
psychotherapeutic, and combined treatment of psychological disorders.

KN4. Behavioral genetics, transmission and expression of genetic information, and its
modification, and the role and limitations of this information in understanding
disorders.

KN5. Applications of structural and functional brain imaging methods, electrophysiological methods, therapeutic drug monitoring methods, and genetic screening methodologies, and the evidence for their effectiveness.

KN6. Major research‐based theories and models of intelligence and their application.

KN7. Major research-based theories, models, and principles of learning and their application.

KN8. Major research‐based theories and models of memory and their application.

KN9. Major research‐based theories and models of motivation and their application.

KN10. Major research-based theories and models of emotion and their application.

KN11. Elements of cognition, including sensation and perception, attention, language, information processing, visual-spatial processing, executive functioning.

KN12. Relations among cognitions/beliefs, behavior, affect, temperament, and mood.

KN13. Influence of psychosocial factors on cognitions/beliefs and behaviors.

KN14. Major research‐based theories and models of social cognition (e.g., person perception, development of stereotypes, prejudice).

KN15. Social interaction and relationships (e.g., attraction, aggression, altruism, organizational justice, verbal and non‐verbal communication, internet communication, mate selection, empathy).

KN16. Group and systems processes (e.g., school, work, and family systems, job satisfaction, team functioning, conformity, persuasion) and social influences on functioning.

KN17. Major research‐based personality theories and models.

KN18. Cultural and sociopolitical psychology (e.g., privilege, cross‐cultural comparisons, political differences, international and global awareness, religiosity and spirituality, acculturation).

KN19. Identity diversity and intersectionality (e.g., psychological impact of diversity on individuals, families, and systems).

KN20. Causes, manifestations, and effects of oppression.

KN21. Normal growth and development across the lifespan.

KN22. Influence of individual‐environment interaction on development over time (e.g., the relationship between the individual and the social, academic, work, community environment).

KN23. Major research‐based theories and models of development.

KN24. Influence of diverse identities on development.

KN25. Family development, configuration, and functioning and their impact on the individual across the lifespan.

KN26. Life events that can influence the course of development across the lifespan.

KN27. Risk and protective factors that may impact a developmental course (e.g., nutrition, prenatal care, health care, social support, socioeconomic status, abuse, victimization, and resiliency).

KN28. Disorders and diseases that impact the expected course of development over the lifespan.

KN29. Psychometric theories, item and test characteristics, test construction and
standardization procedures, reliability and validity, sensitivity and specificity, and test fairness and bias.

KN30. Assessment theories and models (e.g., developmental, behavioral, ecological,
neuropsychological).

KN31. Assessment methods and their strengths and limitations (e.g., self‐report, multi-informant reports, psychophysiological measures, work samples, assessment centers, direct observation, structured and semi‐structured interviews).

KN32. Commonly used instruments for the measurement of characteristics and behaviors of individuals and their appropriate use with various populations.

KN33. Issues of differential diagnosis and integration of non‐psychological information into psychological assessment.

KN34. Instruments and methods appropriate for the assessment of groups and organizations (e.g., program evaluation, needs assessment, organizational and personnel assessment).

KN35. Criteria for selection and adaptation of assessment methods (e.g., evidenced-based knowledge of assessment limitations, cultural appropriateness, trans‐cultural adaptation, and language accommodations).

KN36. Classification systems and their underlying rationales and limitations for evaluating client functioning; dimensional vs. categorical approaches to diagnosis.

KN37. Factors influencing evidence-based interpretation of data and decision‐making (e.g., base rates, group differences, cultural biases and differences, heuristics).

KN38. Constructs of epidemiology and base rates of psychological and behavioral disorders.

KN39. Major research-based theories and models of psychopathology.

KN40. Measurement of outcomes and changes due to prevention or intervention efforts with individuals, couples, families, groups, and organizations.

KN41. Use of technology in implementing tests, surveys, and other forms of assessment and diagnostic evaluation (e.g., validity, cost-effectiveness, consumer acceptability).

KN42. Factors related to treatment or intervention decision-making (e.g., relevant research, matching treatment to assessment/diagnosis, matching client or patient with psychologist characteristics, knowledge and use of allied services, cost and benefit, readiness to change).

KN43. Contemporary research-based theories and models of treatment, intervention, and prevention.

KN44. Treatment techniques and interventions, and the evidence for their comparative efficacy and effectiveness.

KN45. Methods and their evidence base for prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation with diverse and special populations.

KN46. Interventions to enhance growth and performance of individuals, couples, families, groups, systems, and organizations.

KN47. Research-based consultation models and processes.

KN48. Research-based models of vocational and career development.

KN49. Telepsychology and technology‐assisted psychological services.

KN50. Healthcare systems, structures, and economics, and how these impact intervention choice.

KN51. Approaches to health promotion, risk reduction, resilience, and wellness.

KN52. Contemporary theories and models of supervision and their evidence base.

KN53. Sampling and data collection methods.

KN54. Design of case, correlational, quasi‐experimental, and experimental studies.

KN55. Analytic methods, including qualitative (e.g., thematic, phenomenological) and quantitative (e.g., probability theory; descriptive, inferential, and parametric statistics; meta-analysis; factor analysis; causal modeling).

KN56. Statistical interpretation (e.g., power, effect size, causation vs. association, clinical vs. statistical significance).

KN57. Critical appraisal and application of research findings (e.g., adequacy of design and statistics, limitations to generalizability, threats to internal and external validity, design flaws, level of evidence).

KN58. Evaluation strategies and techniques (e.g., needs assessment, process and
implementation evaluation, formative and summative program evaluation, outcome evaluation, cost‐benefit analysis).

KN59. Considerations regarding community involvement and participation in research.

KN60. Dissemination and presentation of research findings.

KN61. Current ethical principles and codes for psychologists (APA, CPA).

KN62. Professional standards and relevant guidelines for the practice of psychology (e.g., standards for educational and psychological testing).

KN63. Laws, statutes, and judicial decisions that affect psychological practice.

KN64. Identification and management of potential ethical issues.

KN65. Models of ethical decision‐making.

KN66. Approaches for continuing professional development.

KN67. Emerging social, legal, ethical, and policy issues and their impact on psychological practice.

KN68. Client and patient rights.

KN69. Ethical issues in the conduct of research.

KN70. Ethical issues in supervision.

KN71. Ethical issues in technology-assisted psychological services.

1.1 Select relevant research literature and critically review its assumptions, conceptualization, methodology, interpretation, and generalizability.

1.1.1 Critically evaluate and apply research findings to practice, with attention to its applicability and generalizability.

1.1.2 Interpret and communicate empirical research results in a manner that is easily understood by non-scientific audiences.

1.2 Acquire and disseminate knowledge in accord with scientific and ethical principles.

1.2.1 Critically evaluate the literature relevant to professional practice.

1.2.2 Share psychological knowledge with diverse groups (e.g., students, colleagues, clients, other professionals, the public) within professional settings in an unbiased manner.

2.1 Apply knowledge of individual and diversity characteristics in assessment and diagnosis.

2.1.1 Integrate knowledge of client characteristics in formulating assessment questions and understanding the reason for assessment.

2.1.2 Select assessment methods and instruments based on psychometric properties, available normed data and/or criterion-referenced standards, and address any limitations in that selection.

2.1.3 Ensure that professional opinions, recommendations, and case formulations adequately reflect consideration of client characteristics.

2.2 Demonstrate effective interviewing skills.

2.2.1 Adapt interview questions and behaviors in light of the characteristics of the interviewer and interviewee.

2.2.2 Demonstrate flexible, empathic, and appropriate use of a broad range of interview techniques.

2.2.3 Consider contextual information (e.g., reason for assessment, possible legal or forensic considerations) in conducting an interview.

2.3 Administer and score instruments following current guidelines and research.

2.3.1 Administer, score, and interpret a range of commonly used standardized assessment instruments.

2.3.2 Adapt relevant guidelines in situations requiring non-standard administration, scoring, interpretation, or communication of assessment results.

2.4 Interpret and synthesize results from multiple sources (e.g., multiple methods of assessment, written documentation, interviewees, collateral sources of information) following current guidelines and research.

2.4.1 Interpret and integrate results from standardized tests and interviews following established guidelines and, as appropriate, multiple applicable norm sets.

2.4.2 Identify the strengths and limitations of various types of assessment data.

2.4.3 Reconcile or explain discrepancies between various sources of data and suggest alternative interpretations or explanations in light of any limitations of assessment instruments.

2.4.4 Synthesize client-specific and scientific data with contextual factors to refine working hypotheses and develop conclusions and recommendations across a range of problems.

2.5 Formulate and communicate diagnoses, recommendations, and/or professional opinions using relevant criteria and considering all assessment data.

2.5.1 Formulate diagnoses using current taxonomies.

2.5.2 Provide recommendations that incorporate client and contextual factors, including diagnoses.

2.5.3 Communicate assessment results to clients, referral sources, and other professionals in an integrative manner.

2.6 Select interventions for clients based on ongoing assessment and research evidence as well as contextual and diversity factors.

2.6.1 Conceptualize intervention or treatment on the basis of evidencebased literature.

2.6.2 Integrate client or stakeholder opinions, preferences, readiness for change, and potential for improvement into intervention plan.

2.7 Apply and modify interventions based on ongoing assessment, research, contextual factors, client characteristics, and situational and environmental variables.

2.7.1 Articulate evidence-based rationale for decisions, recommendations, and opinions to clients and others as indicated.

2.7.2 Continually evaluate, modify, and assess the effectiveness of interventions, considering all relevant variables including biases and heuristics.

2.7.3 Consult with qualified peers when facing the need to modify interventions in unfamiliar situations.

3.1 Integrate and apply theory, research, professional guidelines, and personal understanding about social contexts to work effectively with diverse clients.

3.1.1 Recognize, understand, and monitor the impact of one’s own identities in professional situations.

3.1.2 Engage in respectful interactions with an awareness of individual, community, and organizational differences.

3.1.3 Modify one’s own behavior based on self-reflection and an understanding of the impact of social, cultural, and organizational contexts.

3.1.4 Follow professional guidelines and the scientific literature, when available, for providing professional services to diverse populations.

3.1.5 Apply culturally appropriate skills, techniques, and behaviors with an appreciation of individual differences.

3.2 Work effectively with individuals, families, groups, communities, and/or organizations.

3.2.1 Use relational skills to engage, establish, and maintain working relationships with a range of clients.

3.2.2 Communicate respectfully, showing empathy for others 3.2.3 Collaborate effectively in professional interactions.

3.3 Demonstrate respect for others in all areas of professional practice.

3.3.1 Consider differing viewpoints held by clients and others.

3.3.2 Respond to differing viewpoints by seeking clarification to increase understanding before taking action.

3.4 Identify and manage interpersonal conflict between self and others.

3.4.1 Manage difficult and complex interpersonal relationships between self and others.

3.4.2 Consult with peers to examine and address one’s own reactions and behavior when managing interpersonal conflict.

4.1 Identify and observe boundaries of competence in all areas of professional practice.

4.1.1 Identify limits of professional competence.

4.1.2 Use knowledge of professional competence to guide scope of practice.

4.1.3 Seek appropriate consultation when unsure about one’s competence and additional needs for training and professional development.

4.1.4 Seek additional knowledge, training, and supervision when expanding scope of practice.

4.1.5 Update knowledge and skills relevant to psychological practice on an ongoing basis.

4.2 Critically evaluate one’s own professional practice through self reflection and feedback from others. 4.2.1 Engage in systematic and ongoing self-assessment and skill development.

4.2.2 Accept responsibility for one’s own professional work and take appropriate corrective action if needed.

4.2.3 Maintain awareness of personal factors that may impact professional functioning.

5.1 Demonstrate and promote values and behaviors commensurate with standards of practice, including ethics codes, laws, and regulations.

5.1.1 Demonstrate integration and application of ethics codes and laws in all professional interactions.

5.1.2 Communicate ethical and legal standards in professional interactions as necessary.

5.1.3 Seek professional consultation on ethical or legal issues when needed.

5.1.4 Discuss with peers or collaborators any ethical concerns with their behavior.

5.1.5 Take appropriate steps to resolve conflicts between laws or rules and codes of ethics in one’s professional practice.

5.2 Accurately represent and document work performed in professional practice and scholarship.

5.2.1 Maintain complete and accurate records.

5.2.2 Report research results accurately, avoiding personal biases.

5.2.3 Ensure adequate and appropriate credit is given to trainees and collaborators in scholarship.

5.3 Implement ethical practice management.

5.3.1 Practice in a manner commensurate with laws, ethical standards, practice guidelines, and organizational constraints.

5.3.2 Manage billing practices in an ethical manner.

5.4 Establish and maintain a process that promotes ethical decision making.

5.4.1 Systematically identify the ethical and legal issues and conflicts that occur in professional practice.

5.4.2 Consult with peers to aid in ethical decision-making when needed.

5.4.3 Proactively address identified ethical issues.

6.1 Work effectively within organizations and systems.

6.1.1 Recognize the organizational and systemic factors that affect delivery of psychological services.

6.1.2 Utilize knowledge of organizations and systems to optimize delivery of psychological services.

6.2 Demonstrate interdisciplinary collaborations.

6.2.1 Collaborate with various professionals to meet client goals.

6.3 Consult and collaborate within and across professions.

6.3.1 Tailor consultation requests and provision of information based on knowledge of others’ professional needs and viewpoints.

6.3.2 Use evidence-based psychological theories, decision-making strategies, and interventions when consulting.

6.3.3 Continually evaluate, modify, and assess the effectiveness of consultation, considering all relevant variables.

6.4 Evaluate service or program effectiveness across a variety of contexts.

6.4.1 Develop plans for evaluating service or program effectiveness.

6.4.2 Assess outcome effectiveness in an ongoing way.

6.5 Ensure supervisee compliance with policies and procedures of the setting, the profession, and the jurisdiction.

6.5.1 Provide a supervision plan that details the supervisory relationship and the policies and procedures of supervision, including procedures to manage high-risk situations.

6.5.2 Identify responsibilities of supervisees towards clients, including informed consent and supervisory status.

6.6 Monitor, evaluate, and accurately and sensitively communicate supervisee performance to the supervisee, the organization, and the jurisdiction as needed.

6.6.1 Regularly provide behaviorally anchored feedback about supervisee strengths and areas that need further development.

6.6.2 Assure that supervisees who are trainees practice within the scope of supervisor’s competence and license.

6.7 Create and maintain a supportive environment in which effective supervision occurs for trainees and other professionals being supervised.

6.7.1 Attend to the interpersonal process between supervisor and supervisees.

6.7.2 Monitor possible multiple roles or conflicts of interest, and work toward resolution, if needed.