President's Blog - March 2017

Dear SBSM Members,

I am very pleased to inform you that planning for BSM certification is well underway. The news has greeted with excitement and anticipation about next steps. As was previously announced, the SBSM Board of Directors approved recommendations from the BSM Certification Task Force to move forward with resumption of a multidiscipline BSM certification to be expanded to include master’s level licensed clinicians. The board also approved task force recommendations for eligibility requirements. These can be reviewed on our website. Because discipline and degree eligibility was expanded, greater emphasis was placed on applicants demonstrating BSM and mental health expertise. Members are invited to review the eligibility criteria and offer comments, as we move forward with the process of implementation. Updates and answers to FAQs will be posted on our website. We will also respond individually to members with questions. Because planning is in the initial states, we may not be able answer all of your questions, but we will do our best.

Part of that process involves direct action by you. I urge you to cast your vote on recent bylaws changes approved by the SBSM Board of Directors that are needed to move forward with BSM certification. Based on wide consultation with our members, leaders and other professional societies, the Board of Directors has also approved that certification be administered by an independent non-profit board. It is envisioned that a new standing Credentials Committee within the SBSM will facilitate the development of the BSM exam and coordinate with the independent non-profit board who will administer the certification process.

There is much exciting work to be done in the coming months. We’ll keep you posted on the many opportunities to join in the process of shaping and contributing to the establishment of a BSM certification.

If you haven’t had the chance to renew your membership this year I invite you to do so. We are working hard to provide increased value to you for the price of membership. Over the past year we have held a successful BSM course, made online courses available, and successfully launched a journal club and newsletter. For 2017 we are expanding our educational and professional offerings during the APSS conference and SBSM course scheduled in Minneapolis for September 16-17. As planning and implementation for BSM certification progresses, we will also be launching a BSM clinical consultation service for members.

On a final note, as one way to build upon the promise of the ACP insomnia guidelines, I will be initiating the formation of a SIG focusing on population-based management of insomnia. Look for an invitation later this Spring.

That’s it for now. It’s an early March 60 degree in Minneapolis, Minnesota...time to head to the garden store!

Michael Schmitz, PsyD, CBSM
SBSM President