Development of a Performance-Based Tool to Assess Geropsychology Competencies

Strengthening the workforce providing mental health care to older adults is a national imperative, given the rapidly growing population of older adults in the United States. The Pikes Peak Model and corresponding Knowledge and Skills Assessment Tool represented a critical advancement in geropsychology training. However, the tool relies on self-report, which can be subject to bias, and it is recommended to be supplemented with direct supervisor observations of performance. To our knowledge, no performance-based tool currently exists that assesses geropsychology competencies. The current report addresses this gap through the development of a performance-based geropsychology competency assessment tool (PBGCAT) informed by the Pikes Peak Model and APA specialty/ABGERO competencies. Selection of core competencies for the PBGCAT was guided by a survey of geropsychology trainees and supervisors (n = 61). A patient vignette design was employed, and tool drafts were rigorously reviewed by subject matter experts and a diversity committee. The PBGCAT offers brief administration, versatility, and serial assessment of competency development. Further pilot testing with diverse groups of trainees and supervisors is needed to evaluate its feasibility, inform refinement, and guide broader dissemination to programs providing training in psychological practice with older adults.