1. Describe the Boulder Model approach to the training of psychologists. How does this approach differ from the training of most mental health professionals?
Events surrounding World War One led to the demand for clinical psychologist to aid veterans with emotional problems. The A.P.A. formally defined clinical psychology and determined the requirements for graduate training. The primary focus was to balance applied clinical skills with scientific orientation. In Boulder, Colorado came the birth of the scientific practitioner model of training. This model states that potential psychologists are to be trained initially as scientific psychologists and then as clinicians. When the training is completed, a Ph.D. is to be given. Trainees should participate in a clinical internship so that competence in diagnosis, psychotherapy, and research is achieved. The Boulder Model is utilized by universities and remains the standard. A unique factor that distinguishes the Boulder Model from other programs is its rigorous training in research and the scientific stance that originates from that training. It differs from the developmental and social psychologists by its strong focus on applied clinical skills such as assessment and therapy. The Boulder Model requires a master's thesis but the Psy.D. program does not. The dissertation is usually an original research contribution, whereas the Psy.D. requires a dissertation that is transformed into a report on a professional subject. The Psy.D. program has more experience in therapeutic practice and assessment during the third year.
