Training Experiences | Pediatric Psychology Fellowship at AHCH
Training is delivered through the following learning activities.
Psychological Evaluations
Fellows conduct mental health screenings for youth and suicide risk screens at the beginning of their training year, under supervision. Following a 40-hour training related to forensic interviewing, Fellows learn to conduct forensic evaluations referred by child protection services related to suspected child maltreatment noting the background history, the child's presentation, and the demonstrated impact of the maltreatment to determine the level of clinical support and provide recommendations for the child and family to improve child's wellbeing. Fellows will also explore systemic and cultural issues that directly or indirectly influence these evaluations and resulting recommendations. Upon graduation, Fellows will be competent in these areas of assessment, including being able to articulate relevant psycho-legal issues, recognizing ethical concerns, and developing comprehensive formulations and recommendations to address referral issues through the application of the most current psychological science. There is a possibility of being required to testify before the court on produced reports. Preparation for these experiences will be provided both through supervision and the relevant attorney.
Therapy
Fellows will begin accumulating a caseload of approximately four clients as soon as possible. Psychotherapeutic services are provided to those who have experienced maltreatment, such as sexual abuse, physical abuse, exposure to substance abuse or intimate partner violence, supportive caretakers, ambivalent caretakers, non-supportive caretakers, and depending on the nature of the referral. Through didactics, supervision, and direct practice, Fellows will become proficient in the treatment of trauma and child maltreatment through evidence-based and other interventions. Fellows will complete an online training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Fellows will also become proficient in incorporating psychodynamic conceptualizations and interventions where appropriate and working with mandated populations in large systems. Given the availability of appropriate referrals, the Fellows may have the opportunity to run the following groups: TF-CBT groups (child and parent groups), game-based TF-CBT groups, DBT skills groups, and groups for children with minor problematic sexual behaviors.
Screening of Suicidality
Fellows are assigned to an on-call schedule in which AHCH medical staff request consultation regarding child/adolescent patients who express suicidal ideation and/or non suicidal self-injury. Fellows will meet with the medical patient and conduct a suicide screen and where appropriate draw up safety plans. Fellows’ time spent in this activity is variable and likely not more than2 hours/month.
Research
Supervisors will work closely with Fellows in either continuing established projects or developing their own hypotheses. The aim is to have presentable material, such as a poster session, presentation, or manuscript by the end of the training year on a relevant aspect of child maltreatment. Additional information related to training will be included in the uploaded didactics schedule.
Didactics and Additional Training
Training is enhanced and supported through extensive didactics, supervision, and rounding. Fellows attend a 40-hour, week-long training on Forensic Interviewing (Finding Words). Didactics begin with basic concepts and progress to more specialized knowledge. Readings and didactics are specific to child maltreatment and trauma to ensure that Fellows are expert in these areas at the completion of the training year. Online trainings are provided by attorneys and other specialists in the field to provide advanced knowledge in relevant case law and other material. Evaluation and case conceptualization are further supported through evaluation team meetings twice a week, for approximately two to three hours a week. Treatment team meetings and staffings also provide additional opportunities for learning throughout the year.
Research
Supervisors will work closely with Fellows in either continuing established projects or developing their own hypotheses. The aim is to have presentable material, such as a poster session, presentation, or manuscript by the end of the training year on a relevant aspect of child maltreatment. Additional information related to training will be included in the uploaded didactics schedule.