EP21 Great Conversations 12 - What Should We Be Teaching Future Psychotherapists? - Donald Meichenbaum, PhD

Unlike surgeons, psychotherapists usually do not get better with years of practice. Why is that? What skills are most important to develop in clinical training programs, and does it actually happen? Should we be focusing on evidence-based treatment techniques, interpersonal therapeutic skills, cultural competence, deliberate practice, scientific skepticism, fostering clients' strengths and resilience? Three seasoned clinical trainers reflect on the joys, challenges, and outcomes of preparing future psychotherapists.

Learning Objectives

1. Explain at least three "nonspecific" clinical skills that improve client outcomes
2. Describe three ways in which future psychotherapists can be prepared to serve culturally diverse clients
3. Define "deliberate practice" and give three examples of how therapists can use it to improve their outcomes.