PSI Exam Testing Center

So, when you go to PSI, you don’t exactly have much of a choice where to go. I thought I would write this review simply to provide some feedback and warn future test-​takers so that they can be better prepared for the experience. Anyway, I passed my state board exam here in October. Like I said I PASSED so I’m not upset about it all, but here were some things that could have made for a much more comfortable experience.
I took the exam on a Saturday, so there was no traffic and plenty of parking, though that would be different on a weekday morning given its location in the middle of Sorrento Valley. The paper mailing and the email warned us that there were no lockers. Given that info I did not bring anything with me… no snacks, no water… nothing. When we walked in we were shown lockers… I would have brought snacks and cold water had I known. Luckily I was given a bottle of room temperature water when I requested water.
The temperature of the testing room was HOT… and I am someone who is always cold. It was pretty uncomfortable. You are limited to 5 minutes for bathroom breaks. So, when I took my break (mind you my exam clock keeps running) I signed out and one of the proctors wrote down my time. On my return, there was no one at the desk to tell me the time, and we are not allowed to wear or carry time pieces. I, at first, waited, but knowing that you are disqualified if you take longer than 5 minutes, I gave my best guess and went back to take my test.
Well, the most ridiculous part of all this is that there seemed to be some sort of a church service or gathering in the suite next door. At one point, someone started to play a guitar and several people sang… at least 3 songs. The ear plugs were of no help.
The staff was pretty friendly, but I think the center needs a lot of changes, and at least one more staff member for the amount of people who were there taking tests that day.

I must state it is never «enjoyable» to sit for a board exam. The best advice I can provide is to at least prepare for the day and this is more than just the studying component that you must be ready for! It’s about being prepared for the day of the exam and reading the materials you are forwarded in advance that will help you.
My board exams involved two separate tests — both which I attended at this location.
My first test was four hours and the room was a bit hot. My second test was two hours and the room was very cool (I personally liked this because when you are nervous you may sweat, in addition it keeps you alert). Layering is a good idea, but read the guidelines about what you can and can’t wear before the day. People around me didn’t seem to know the rules.
My tests were in two different rooms. The first test we needed to place keys and phones in folders (which is not very secure) and the second test we were provided lockers. I believe they upgraded/​moved to a different room that has improved amenities (such as lockers) and a big improvement.
The computers and work stations are adequate (really, everyone is just nervous and thinking about the exam)! My first test I needed to wear the earphones (they also supply earplugs as an option), but the second test I didn’t hear any noise and was able to test without the headphones. I know some people need to take bathroom breaks, but if you do, you will be shorting yourself time on your important day. Try to utilize the facilities prior to your exam. I know I didn’t want to lose time!
The staff is all business and stick to the procedures at hand. They are quite efficient at running the facility and were helpful if you had a question. More than anything I am impressed with the phone scheduling staff at PSI. I have had two excellent customer service experiences by phone for scheduling and paperwork info. A staff member followed up on something and called me back on a day and time that they said they would. This is pretty impressive for an company that is one of the largest administrators of tests with little competition out there.
If you are taking a test… good luck and go prepared!

It’s a pretty okay place for a big important test. Make sure you bring a jacket without a hood if you get chilly under A/​C and don’t take anything you don’t need. They’re pretty strict about the possibility of cheating so they’ll make you leave bags, hoodies, etc. in a locker. It’s better to just avoid all that fuss if you can. They provided earplugs when I was there. If you have two tests in one day and schedule a long break in between them like I did you can find a lot of good lunch options nearby. The staff were pretty polite and they seem to understand that you’re stressed out. Also: make sure you arrive 15 minutes early at least to check in!

This review is specific to this testing center location. This company administers various state and national board exams. I took the California BBS MFT Standard Written Exam in August 2014 at this location. It is located in a very dated, musty old building. The testing office is sparse and extremely warm. Also very humid. In my opinion, not a good testing environment especially for a 4 hour exam! The staff here was awful. The are not at all nice and totally ignored me when I was trying to return my items at the end of the exam. I had to stand there while the on guy was talking his cell phone making weekend plans!!! When you arrive– They take your keys and put them in an insecure envelope (NO LOCKERS!!!). So really at any point– anyone can grab your car keys and rifle through your car– they’d have 4 hours to do it bc your not allowed to leave without forfeiting the entire exam. You only get a 5 minute bathroom break– the bathroom is out the door at the end of the hall. You’re not allowed to leave the floor so forget about grabbing a little fresh air mid test. If you have an option– go to a different location!!!