Experiencia profesional y niveles de competencias clínicas básicas para la psicoterapia

Un estudio correlacional

Abstract

Several studies examined the variability of the therapist's performance according to their professional experience, arriving at different results, which is why this work aims to evaluate the differences in the levels of basic competencies for psychotherapy according to professional experience. It is hypothesized that psychotherapists with more professional experience will possess higher levels of basic clinical competencies. To carry out the study, the Basic Clinical Competence Scale for Psychotherapists (Crocamo, 2019) was used, an instrument that evaluates seven basic clinical competencies: diagnostic process, design, interventions and techniques, therapeutic link, professional role, contextual variables and diversity, management of interview and evaluation and completion of the process. 534 psychotherapists from different provinces of Argentina participated. In order to deepen the analysis, the sample was divided into four groups called recently graduated (n = 148), beginners (n = 88), intermediate (n = 144) and advanced (n = 154). From a detailed analysis of the variables, it is concluded that psychotherapists with more professional experience have higher levels of basic clinical competencies. The results of this research reveal a series of relevant results and practical implications for mental health professionals. The data obtained can guide the design of training programs, strengthen learning practices that differentiate therapists according to their level of competence, and set aside practices that seem not to generate a significant development of skills.