Are certification and licensure the same thing?
Certifications and licenses are NOT the same. A license is issued by a government and allows one to practice a profession. In fact, it may be a criminal act to practice without a license. Though typically not required by law, certification lets the public know that a practitioner has been professionally recognized by a credentialing agency. It is also a sign of support for the profession and the standards set by the credentialing organization.
