Certification is a form of credentialing, a voluntary regulation of a profession. It is the process by which a non-government organization grants recognition to persons who have met certain standards defined by that organization. Certification is designed to promote and maintain integrity and quality.

The MAPCB certification was developed by and for substance abuse and other behavioral health professionals. MAPCB through the ICRC Board has established the following process by which a professional is measured and tested. It is a peer review system which assesses and evaluates specific knowledge and skill areas as well as the competencies of those providing substance abuse and other behavioral health services to the client and significant others. In return for meeting and fulfilling certification requirements, the certified professional obtains a tool for marketing his/her skills and competencies.

Purposes of Certification

• For the Patient/Client - To assure competent professional services to the client; to improve quality of service being provided to the client and family members.
• For the Public - To assure professional competency which will meet standards required for licensing, accreditation, and third-party payers.
• For the Certified Professional - To provide a respected, marketable credential of professional competency; to enhance the role of the professional.
• For the Profession - To provide a method whereby the highest professional standards can be established, maintained and updated.

Why Become Certified?

• Certification marks the professionals who are specialists in the field.
• Certified professionals are recognized in state and national insurance legislation, and in Federal Department of Transportation regulations.
• Opportunity for peer networking, involvement and impact through MAPCB sponsored education conferences and committee work.
• Certification increases professionalism of the field.
• Employers use the credential as a basis for hiring and advancement.
• Many employers are requesting or requiring certification upon employment.
• Receive the MAPCB Newsletter, an informative bi-annual publication available only to those professionals certified by MAPCB.
• Freedom to move to another state within the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium and automatically be granted the local board's credential/license. 
• Recourse for the client who may have been treated incompetently or unethically by a certified professional.
  

Certifications