You’ve heard of the Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) certification prep course ARC Seminars proudly offers – but did you know there was an option for students to get one step ahead in this credentialing process? Read on for 3 things students absolutely need to know about the Provisional Certified Brain Injury Specialization, or PCBIS.
What is a Provisional Certified Brain Injury Specialization?
For students dreaming of working with the brain injury population in their future careers, the PCBIS certification is one way to get a huge step ahead.
The Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists (ACBIS) has opened up this certification route to students with the hope that they will develop a strong foundation in addressing acquired and traumatic brain injury prior to entering clinical practice. CBIS is a nationally recognized credential & immediately shows employers, fellow clinicians and patients that you have a vested and dedicated interest in the field of brain injury–the provisional certified brain injury specialist certification is a way for students do to the same!
Students who obtain PCBIS certification will need to obtain 500 hours, verified by a superior, of practice treating traumatic or acquired brain injuries. These hours must be done within a three year period from the date of the original PCBIS certification.
Only Students are Eligible? Is there a test?
Yes and Yes. Only students are eligible for the PCBIS certification. Not a student? Please check out Certified Brain Injury Specialization — available to practicing clinicians. You must be enrolled in a graduate program for one of the following: allied health, psychology, pre-med or medical, special education, neurosciences or behavioral analysis/sciences.
The test is 70 questions, all multiple choice. You get two attempts to pass within one year of the first attempt before you have to start the entire process over — including application.
Students – don’t wait! Download our Certified Brain Injury Specialist Starter Pack here and be one step ahead in the rehab game!
I’m interested — What should I do next?
Take the first step in preparing for the PCBIS examination by registering for a prep course. ARC Seminars offers a CBIS prep course — appropriate for our PCBIS examinees as well — with the added benefit of having a specialized CBIS trainer teaching the course! Allison Frederick, our CBIS-T, has also worked on some amazing extras that you get as a part of the full course including practice quiz questions.
You can also purchase the Essential Brain Injury Guide through ARC Seminars solo if you are interested in studying alone (we’ll always be here when you change your mind). Allison will help answer questions and provide guidance for the entire process so you can focus on learning and growing as a student clinician.
If you have questions, or want to find out more, feel free to contact us here! We will gladly guide you along your path to becoming a go-getter, neuro-lovin’ clinician-to-be!
🧠🧠🧠 Obtaining your CBIS really sets you apart from your peers and show that you are committed to keeping your clinical skills with the ABI population sharp. It can inspire confidence in your patients and their families and give you the tools you need to assist your patients recover. Why not be as prepared as you possibly can be for whatever ABI can throw your way? Also – it makes YOU more marketable, impressive and showcases your dedication to brain injury! 🧠🧠🧠

Spenser Bassett graduated from the University of Findlay with her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy in 2022. She currently works in subacute & LTC, and is ARC Seminars’ Associate & Social Media Developer. Spenser is passionate about promoting diversity in rehab spaces & empowering rehab professionals to succeed beyond classroom walls.

Spenser Bassett graduated from the University of Findlay with her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy in 2022. She currently works in subacute & LTC, and is ARC Seminars’ Associate & Social Media Developer. Spenser is passionate about promoting diversity in rehab spaces & empowering rehab professionals to succeed beyond classroom walls.
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