Expertise in Clinical Psychology. The Effects of University Training and Practical Experience on Expertise in Clinical Psychology

How do university training and subsequent practical experience affect expertise in clinical psychology? To answer this question we developed methods to assess psychological knowledge and the competence to diagnose, construct case conceptualizations, and plan psychotherapeutic treatment: a knowledge test and short case studies in a first study, and a complex, dynamically evolving case study in the second study. In our cross-sectional studies, psychology students, trainees in a certified postgraduate psychotherapist curriculum, and behavior therapists with more than 10 years of experience were tested (100 in total: 20 each of novice, intermediate, and advanced university students, postgraduate trainees, and therapists). Clinical knowledge and competence increased up to the level of trainees but unexpectedly decreased at the level of experienced therapists. We discuss the results against the background of expertise research and the training of clinical psychologists (in Germany). Important factors for the continuing professional development of psychotherapists are proposed.

Multicultural education in Clinical Psychology Programs and the needs of racial minority trainees.

With more racial minorities entering the field of clinical psychology, the training needs of racial minority students in doctoral programs must be considered. Few studies address training in multicultural education from the perspective of racial minority students despite their increasing presence in the field. This may be due to assumptions educators make based on their level of competency in the area of multiculturalism. Thus, the goal of this exploratory study is to help determine the multicultural training needs of racial minorities enrolled in clinical psychology programs. This exploratory study was quantitative and used snowball sampling to survey racial minority trainees in doctoral programs in clinical psychology. Sixty one participants completed the survey. Results indicated that multicultural/diversity classes are valued by racial minority students and are relevant to them. However, the majority of students do not feel challenged, suggesting that their needs are not being fully met. It is recommended that their unique needs be included in the curriculum for multicultural education.

General psychology,

"Supplementary reading" at end of each chapter.

The maze test and clinical psychology.

Includes bibliography.

The practice of clinical psychology,

"References" at end of most of the chapters.

Genetic psychology monographs.

Developmental and clinical psychology (varies)

A course in experimental psychology /

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

General psychology in terms of behavior,

Bibliography: p. 261-264.

The psychology of efficiency; an experimental study of the processes involved in the solution of mechanical puzzles and in the acquisition of skill in their manipulation,

Vita.

Outlines of psychology, based upon the results of experimental investigation;

Mode of access: Internet.

Introduction to philosophy; a handbook for students of psychology, logic, ethics, aesthetics and general philosophy,

Mode of access: Internet.

Introduction to experimental method for psychology and the social sciences.

Mode of access: Internet.