Postdoctoral training in geropsychology: Guidelines for formal programs and continuing education.

Clinical geropsychology is a relatively new practice area. Inherent in the emergence of a new professional specialty is the development of standards for training. In this study, a qualitative analysis of 8 Veterans Affairs postdoctoral fellowship programs was completed. Results suggest a coalescence of training experiences leading to skill and knowledge competencies requisite for geropsychology expertise. Breadth of training, including assessment and intervention across multiple contexts, appears to be a key feature. The role of research and education and the problem of balancing generalist vs specialist goals are discussed. Also presented are applications of these findings to practitioners seeking additional proficiency in geropsychology through continuing education. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)