Three-year retrospective case study of a clinical psychology intern program within a rural mental health service

Abstract

Clinical psychology has not had a strong presence in rural and remote regions of Australia. It is believed that the lack of rural experiences during training contributes to reluctance among graduates for working in rural areas. In mid-2000, a clinical psychology intern program was established at Bendigo, within the Loddon Campaspe Southern Mallee region of Victoria. This paper examines the changes, challenges and supportive structures associated with the intern program since its initial evaluation in 2002. The program has continued to receive referrals and to be well-regarded by staff and interns. The program is also suggested to have played a role in contributing to a greater appreciation for clinical psychology within the inpatient setting and the employment of a part-time psychologist. Challenges identified include the difficulties for interns in providing single-session treatment, and the difficulties establishing quantitative research on inpatient outcomes. It is expected that this paper will be useful for other services that are considering introducing rural clinical psychology internships.