The American Board of Adolescent Psychiatry (ABAP) was organized in 1989 in an effort to establish a process of speciality Board Certification for General Psychiatrists whose clinical work was with adolescents, young adults, and their families. The field of Adolescent and Young Adult Psychiatry is unique and specialized, even more so now than in 1989, and we believe the field and patients benefit from psychiatrists who are specially trained and have demonstrated their expertise through successful completion of the required certification process. While a fellowship program is not presently required, it is something that ABAP has explored in the past and continues to consider. Alternatively, we have set up reasonable credentialing and educational standards as well as a standardized examination process to assure interested potential Diplomates are able to attain this certification without a fellowship requirement.