What is the Format of the CRPO Exam?
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Proctored vs. In-Person​
The CRPO exam is a computer-based exam which is administered either in-person (at a testing centre) or via an online proctored environment. Most test-takers now choose to take the exam at home in a remote proctored environment. This involves the use of multiple devices: a computer or laptop to take the exam; and a phone to provide a constant view of the test taker for proctoring purposes.
CRPO Exam Structure
There are two key words to know when seeking to understand the CRPO exam structure:
1. Simulations
The exam consists of 10 separate simulations. These are groupings of 6-9 sections of questions which deal with a specific scenario. For each simulation, details are provided which launch the test taker into a case by providing basic information from which they can begin to conceptualize the matter at hand.
Here is an example:
You are a therapist in a group private practice. This is your first meeting with a new client. On her intake form, Lucia has indicated that she is 32 years old, is recently separated after 7 years of marriage, and has 2 school-aged children. Her family doctor has suggested she try psychotherapy to address what he described to her as early signs of depression.
These details remain constant throughout the entire simulation and do not change. They can always be found at the top of each page during the exam. As the test taker progresses through the simulation, the original details tend to matter less and less as the actual responses that are revealed take on more importance. However, for the first 1-3 sections of the simulation, it is of vital importance to focus on the details presented in the simulation overview to shape the direction of the responses and pass the exam.
2. Sections
Every simulation consists of approximately 6 to 9 separate sections. These are subsets of information and lines of questions which flesh out the simulation as the case plays out. For instance, in the case of Lucia listed above, here is a sampling of the various section headings as you progress through the simulation:
Section A
In your first meeting with Lucia, what information would best assist you in determining potential directions for therapy at this time?
Section B
At the conclusion of your first meeting, what options would be indicated?
Section C
As you prepare for the next session, which of the following actions would be most helpful to initiate a collaborative plan with your client?
It is important to note that these headings change with every new section. Underneath each of the section headings test takers are provided with a list of possible responses. These will usually number in the range of 7-12 possible responses.
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The Responsive Nature of the Exam
The CRPO exam is unique because it is presented in such a way that it is responsive in nature. What this means is the responses are not static or knowledge-based. Instead, the responses which are being asked for are situational in nature and provide feedback in every instance.
For example, in the case of Lucia, if you select the option to: ‘Inquire about client’s self awareness’ during the initial session, the exam will generate the response —Lucia is reflective and articulate. If you do not choose that option, the reflective response is not revealed. The responsive nature of the exam adds the wrinkle of simulating human interactions within the exam model and adds the flavor of a typical therapy session. Understanding this model is a key component of the CRPO Exam Video Training Course.