Training in Professional Psychology in the US: An Increased Focus on Competency Attainment

Abstract

Professional psychology training in the US is moving toward a competency based model rather than the traditional exposure to training opportunities model. The competencies perspective in education of professional psychologists has strengths in refocusing the evaluation of training on outcomes rather than on arbitrary, traditional processes. A challenge is the development of assessment tools for the evaluation of competencies in professional psychology. Using the competencies approach can help to guide training in professional psychology and help assure public safety by focusing educators and clinical supervisors on our gatekeeping functions as well as on our aspirational desire to turn out the best possible professional psychologists.

Key words:

• assessment
• competency
• cumulative
• gatekeeper
• sequential
• training