Maximizing Your Internship PD with Study

[Mark Granger]

As a provisional psychologist, you are required to complete a certain number of Professional Development (PD) hours. Balancing these requirements with work and exam preparation can be a juggling act. However, smart candidates know how to kill two birds with one stone by integrating their exam study into their PD log.

Many supervisors and boards recognize that preparing for the licensure exam constitutes high-quality professional development. It forces you to revisit core competencies, ethics, and evidence-based practices. Therefore, choosing a study course that is eligible for PD hours is a strategic move that saves time and money.

What Counts as PD?

Generally, formal learning activities that improve your practice are countable.

Structured Courses

A formal prep course with modules and quizzes is easily justifiable as PD. It provides structured learning outcomes.

Peer Learning and Supervision

Group study sessions or supervision focused on exam content also contribute to your hours and your readiness.

• Log Hours: Keep a detailed record of your study time.

• Align Competencies: Map your study to core competencies.

• Discuss with Supervisor: Ensure they sign off on your plan.

• Save Money: Combine training costs with exam prep.

The Financial Benefit

Beyond time management, there is a financial angle. High-quality training is an investment.

When you enroll in a recognized  preparation course, you are often eligible to claim the cost as a tax deduction. This makes accessing premium resources, such as a full national psychology exam suite with video lessons and AI support, much more affordable. It turns a necessary expense into a tax-effective career investment.

Conclusion

Strategic planning allows you to meet your internship requirements while preparing for your biggest hurdle. By selecting resources that count towards your PD hours, you optimize your limited time.

Don't view exam prep as separate from your professional growth. Integrate it, log it, and use it to propel you toward general registration with efficiency and professional rigor.