Reflective practice strategies for clinical psychology students: Understanding and managing personal responses in professional roles
Status
Completed: 14 December 2016
Project Details
An action-research project that investigated the reflective practice skills of clinical psychology students who work with consumers in mental health and forensic settings. A collaboration involving six New Zealand tertiary institutions, led by the University of Auckland
Aims:
The research project aimed to:
- introduce clinical psychology students to concepts used by experienced therapists
- increase students’ awareness of countertransference (CT)
- provide students with a method for understanding CT
- provide students with strategies for managing their CT
- ensure teaching and learning methods are culturally appropriate for Māori and Pasifika students.
Methodology:
The research method included:
- a literature review
- an initial 2-day workshop for academics
- a 2-day training workshop for students
- online questionnaires for both students and academics.
Team
Dr Claire Cartwright
Project leader
The University of Auckland
Dr Sue Cowie
The University of Auckland
Dr Nigel George
The University of AucklandStatus
Funding
$16,290.00 (excl GST)
Key Findings
- Students reported their awareness and understanding of countertransference had increased.
- The majority of students who used the Reflective Practice Guide reported it was ‘helpful’ or ‘very helpful’.
- Students’ overall satisfaction with the training workshops was ‘high’.
- Academic participants reported that they observed an increase in students’ awareness and understanding of CT.
Key Recommendations
Teaching and learning approach | Continue to offer a teaching and learning approach focused on developing an understanding of how to manage countertransference (CT).
Countertransference approach | Recognise that CT is likely to be relevant to other professional groups including teachers, doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, massage therapists and others who work in the helping professions.
Future research options | Consider further research that looks at the impact of the template for reflective practice on student practice and their ability to understand and manage CT. Also consider looking at ways in which the current teaching approach could be adapted for training in other professions.
A report prepared by Claire Cartwright, Nigel George and Sue Cowie.
- 30 November 2016
A guide prepared by Claire Cartwright, Nigel George and Sue Cowie.
- 30 November 2016