Credentials and clinical activities of internship supervisors in neuropsychology: A comparison of VA and non-VA training sites

Abstract

Surveyed 69 VA and 101 non-VA internships to (a) delineate the credentials and activities of supervisors in clinical neuropsychology, and (b) compare the credentials and activities of the two groups. Questionnaires were returned by 83% of VA and 62% of non-VA internships. A majority of each group was trained in clinical psychology. The proportions of supervisors with board certification and relevant coursework and/or training experiences (e.g., postdoctoral fellowship) were the same for both groups. Similarities were noted in time devoted to research and training, number of interns supervised, preferred assessment tools, and favored approach to clinical evaluation. Conversely, VA instructors devoted more time to clinical practice, while non-VA personnel claimed more publications. The majority of VA supervisors were trained in VA settings, while most non-VA respondents interned at university medical centers or state hospitals. The training and credentials of both groups evidenced wide ranging competencies. The need for improved training and credentialing of practitioners and supervisors was discussed.