FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are several answers to some of our most commonly asked questions. Please contact us if you have additional questions.
What is the testing period for MH candidates?
We offer rolling examinations. Once you submit your application it will be reviewed and if it is determined that your application meets the criteria you will be allowed to test shortly after.
What are the eligibility requirements for Certified Equine Interaction Professional in Mental Health (CEIP-MH)?
Eligibility includes being licensed to practice psychotherapy independently, having at least three years of professional service, a minimum of 300 hours delivering mental health services with horses, and 120 hours of documented education and training. For more details, review the eligibility requirements in the CBEIP Handbook.
How can I re-certify as a CEIP-MH?
Recertification can be achieved through either continuing education (30 CEUs) or by retaking the examination. Recertification is required every three years.
What are the reasons for certification, particularly for education professionals?
Certification for education professionals provides documented evidence of examination, establishes a benchmark of knowledge, reinforces personal and professional growth, and promotes safe practice.
When is the application deadline for the Certification Examination?
At this time, applications are accepted year round.
How long is certification effective, and what happens after three years?
Certification is valid for three years, after which individuals must either meet continuing education requirements or retake and pass the examination for recertification.
What is the revocation criteria for certification?
Certification can be revoked for falsification of information, breach of ethical standards, or misrepresentation of certification status.
What fees are associated with the examination for MH candidates?
The examination fee for MH candidates is US $325. There’s also a rescheduling fee of US $50 under specific conditions.
How can candidates reschedule their examination appointments?
Candidates can reschedule within the permitted time frame (30 days or more before the original appointment) by contacting CBEIP at info@cbeip.org.
What is the process for MH recertification through continuing education?
Recertification through continuing education requires accumulating 30 CEUs, with documentation of attendance and a recertification fee of $150 USD.
What categories are covered in the examination for MH candidates, and how is it weighted?
The examination covers Assessment, Evaluation, and Planning (25%), Facilitator Skills (60%), and Administration and Risk Management (15%).
How are examination results communicated to candidates?
Candidates will be promptly informed whether they have passed or failed the examination. Once a candidate passes the exam, their application and exam score is presented at the next board meeting. Once the board makes a determination for certification, the candidate will receive an email notification and if the vote is favorable, they will receive their certificate in the mail shortly after.
What are the eligibility requirements for Certified Equine Interaction Professional in Mental Health (CEIP-MH)?
Eligibility includes being licensed to practice psychotherapy independently, having at least three years of professional service, a minimum of 300 hours delivering mental health services with horses, and 120 hours of documented education and training.
How can I re-certify as a CEIP-MH?
Recertification can be achieved through either continuing education (30 CEUs) or by retaking the examination.
How can candidates reschedule their examination appointments?
Candidates can reschedule within the permitted time frame (30 days or more before the original appointment) by contacting CBEIP at info@cbeip.org.
What are the key components of the Assessment, Evaluation, and Planning section for Mental Health professionals?
The components include assessment of the facility and clients, development and writing of treatment plans, implementation of treatment plans, and post-session evaluation and review.
What does the Assessment of Clients involve?
It involves the initial intake process, client informed consent, disclosure of inherent risks, gathering of psychological, social, and medical history, documentation of client goals, and understanding limits of confidentiality.
What is covered in the Development and Writing of Treatment Plan section?
It covers the design of sessions/activities, matching interactions to client goals, determining the level and number of support staff needed, assessing the appropriateness of volunteer support, and consulting with other experts such as equine professionals.
What are the key Facilitator Skills expected from Mental Health professionals?
Interpersonal relationship skills, equine knowledge and skills, safety protocols/risk management, knowledge of existing industry standards and ethics, and collaboration with the therapeutic team.
How is the examination for Mental Health candidates structured?
The examination comprises 150 multiple-choice questions covering Assessment, Evaluation, and Planning (25%), Facilitator Skills (60%), and Administration and Risk Management (15%).
How is the examination for Education professionals conducted?
The Education examination is done through a Portfolio Process, including a portfolio submission and an open book exam with 75 questions weighted across Assessment, Evaluation, and Planning (25%), Facilitator Skills (60%), and Administration and Risk Management (15%).
What is included in the Facilitation Session Case for the Portfolio?
The Facilitation Session Case involves presenting, describing, and analyzing actions relative to a session with a participant, including sections on the description of the session, reasoning and intentions, analysis of approach and actions, and assessment of risk.
How should one choose a session for the Facilitation Session Case in the ED portfolio?
Choose a session with an individual participant or group, and provide a written description covering the session overview, reasoning and intentions, analysis of approach and actions, and assessment of risk.
How often is recertification required for Education professionals?
Recertification is required every three years, and the fee is $150 USD. It can be achieved through accumulating a minimum of 30 continuing education units (CEUs).
What are the categories for obtaining CEUs for recertification?
CEUs can be obtained through 10 hours of equine-related training, 10 hours of education/coaching-specific continuing education, and 10 hours of attendance at equine interaction conferences, workshops, or method training.
What are the key components of the Assessment, Evaluation, and Planning section for Education professionals?
Components include assessment of the facility and participants, development and writing of participant education plans, implementation of education plans, and post-session evaluation and review.
Frequently Asked Questions
about the CBEIP Code of Ethics
What is the primary responsibility emphasized in the Code of Ethics?
The primary responsibility is to hold paramount the safety and health of both people and animals during the performance of professional duties.
Who should be informed about potential dangers and risks according to the Code?
Clients, students, employers, employees, bystanders, and appropriate authorities should be advised of danger and unavoidable risks.
How should professionals act in terms of honesty and integrity?
Professionals must maintain honesty, fairness, and impartiality, acting with responsibility and integrity.
Is there an obligation to continue professional development?
Yes, professionals are obligated to accept responsibility for maintaining and continuing their professional development and competence.
What is the stance on bias in professional practice?
Professionals are required to act in a manner free of bias, including but not limited to religion, ethnicity, gender, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.
What standards must be adhered to in the field of mental health and/or education?
Professionals must adhere to the highest standards of practice and ethics in their own professional field of mental health and/or education.
Are there specific standards from equine interaction professional organizations to follow?
Yes, professionals must adhere to the highest standards of practice and ethics set by any equine interaction professional organizations to which they belong.
What is the role regarding compliance with laws?
Professionals must abide by all country/federal and state/province laws and act, when necessary, as a mandated reporter.
How should professionals acknowledge and respond to the needs of equine colleagues?
Professionals must acknowledge and respond to the necessity of responsible care for their equine colleagues, recognizing their unique character, psychology, physiology, behavior, and nature.
Are there limitations on offering services?
Yes, professionals should offer services only within the scope of their practice, competence, education, training, and expertise.
What actions are considered unethical regarding professional qualifications?
Actions that falsify or misrepresent one’s professional qualifications are to be avoided.
How should professionals handle dual relationships with clients or former clients?
Dual relationships with clients, especially those risking exploitation or potential harm, should be avoided. If unavoidable, clear, appropriate, and sensitive boundaries must be set.
What is the focus when promoting change in participants' lives?
The focus should be on issues charged to the certification holder and/or promoting general learning and growth. Clients should not be pressured to adopt beliefs and behaviors that reflect the certification holder’s value system.
How should concerns about ethical standards be addressed?
Professionals are expected to abide by the Code of Ethics and report suspected ethical concerns to the individuals involved and/or relevant authorities by letter. They should also adhere to all other codes of ethics and standards related to their practice.