Clinical Psychology Training: Accreditation and Beyond

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology Training
• Accreditation Systems

Background:

• The accreditation of clinical psychologists began in the late 1940s to address the mental health needs of World War II veterans.
• Historically, the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association has been the primary accrediting body.
• In 2008, the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) emerged, focusing on the clinical science training model.

Observation:

• This review analyzes the historical development and goals of accreditation in clinical psychology.
• It provides an overview of the evaluation procedures employed by both the Commission on Accreditation and PCSAS.
• Accreditation is examined within the context of slow progress in reducing mental illness burden.

Findings:

• Two major accreditation systems, the Commission on Accreditation and PCSAS, currently operate.
• These systems differ in their training models and evaluation procedures.
• The review highlights the need for improved accreditation processes.

Implications:

• Accreditation plays a crucial role in shaping clinical psychology training.
• Enhancements in accreditation may accelerate progress in addressing mental illness.
• The review concludes with five recommendations for improving accreditation processes and their impact.