Wise, E. H., & Reuman, L. (2019).
Professional Psychology Research
and Practice, 50(2), 129–135.
Abstract
Based on awareness of the challenges inherent in the practice of psychology there is a burgeoning interest in ensuring that psychologists who serve the public remain competent. These challenges include remaining current in our technical skills and maintaining sufficient personal wellness over the course of our careers. However, beyond merely maintaining competence, we encourage psychologists to envision flourishing lifelong practice that incorporates positive relationships, enhancement of meaning, and positive engagement. In this article we provide an overview of the foundational competencies related to professionalism including ethics, reflective practice, self-assessment, and self-care that underlie our ability to effectively apply technical skills in often complex and emotionally challenging relational contexts. Building on these foundational competencies that were initially defined and promulgated for academic training in health service psychology, we provide an initial framework for conceptualizing psychologist well-being and flourishing lifelong practice that incorporates tenets of applied positive psychology, values-based practice, and a communitarian-oriented approach into the following categories: fostering relationships, meaning making and value-based practice, and enhancing engagement. Finally, we propose broad strategies and specific examples intended to leverage current continuing education mandates into a broadly conceived vision of continuing professional development to support enhanced psychologist functioning for lifelong practice.
Here are some thoughts:
Wise and Reuman highlight the importance of lifelong learning for psychologists, emphasizing that competence involves maintaining both technical skills and personal wellness. The authors introduce a framework that integrates positive psychology, values-based practice, and a communitarian approach, focusing on fostering relationships, enhancing meaning, and promoting engagement. They stress the significance of foundational competencies such as ethics, reflective practice, self-assessment, and self-care, and advocate for leveraging continuing education mandates to support psychologists' ongoing development and well-being throughout their careers.
