Competency-based curriculum in neuropsychology fellowship training.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to review existing neuropsychological training guidelines for fellowship training and to propose a competency-based training curriculum that can be implemented in a two-year neuropsychological fellowship. Competency-based approaches to training are commonly used in psychology, some competencies specific to neuropsychology include the Houston Conference Guidelines and the Clinical Neuropsychology Taxonomy. Despite training guidelines, curriculum based on these guidelines for fellowship training programs is not readily available and may vary across programs. Method: Various published training approaches/models were reviewed. A sample curriculum, with specifications for neuropsychological foundational and functional training competencies, was developed based on previously published training guidelines, clinical experience, and supervisory experiences that are common in neuropsychological practice. Narrative examples were included to illustrate this curriculum. Conclusion: The proposed curriculum can be implemented flexibly at a variety of training sites while still helping trainees achieve key competencies, which can help trainees move successfully through future board certification. A future task force is recommended to gather additional data from training programs, expertise from training directors and supervisors, and trainee feedback as it relates to curriculum development.