Human diversity and professional competence: Training in clinical and counseling psychology revisited.

TLDR

Psychologists increasingly recognize the need to train students to serve diverse populations, yet many graduate programs still lack courses and experiences tailored to racial‑ethnic, sexual‑orientation, socioeconomic, gender, and disability groups. The study surveys 259 counseling and clinical psychology graduates to assess their training and work experiences with diverse clients. Survey respondents reported on their training and professional experiences with diverse client populations. Findings reveal limited training opportunities for diverse clients and identify the most effective training experiences.

Abstract

Psychologists have increasingly recognized the need to appropriately train students to serve individuals from diverse groups. These groups have been characterized by racial-ethnic membership or defined by sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, gender, and physical ability. Recent reports have documented that many applied graduate training programs still do not provide courses and experiences specific to working with diverse populations. This study presents results from a survey of 259 graduates of counseling and clinical psychology programs. Respondents were asked about training and professional work experiences with diverse groups. Results indicate restricted opportunities for training with diverse clients. Training experiences reported to be most effective are presented. Findings are discussed in light of continuing efforts to promote appropriate services.