Dr Matt Thomas1,2,3, Ms Zora Todoroska1, Ms Nicole Sudmalis2,4
1Marathon Health, Bathurst, Australia, 2School of Psychology, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia, 3Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia, 4Health in Mind, Orange, Australia
Biography:
Matt Thomas is a Clinical Psychologist and clinical academic employed by Marathon Health as Principal Practice Lead in Bathurst, NSW. He has specialised in cognitive assessment and remediation and has over 25 years of experience working as a clinician, clinical supervisor, researcher and in practice leadership positions. He is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer at Charles Sturt University and The University of NSW.
Abstract:
Background:
The time and cost burdens of supervising and employing provisional psychologists to achieve general registration is significant. To address this problems, four partnering organizations in regional NSW created the CoreConnect training program. The pilot CoreConnect program offered provisional psychologists within the consortium organisations free weekly online workshops, on topics that prepared them to achieve the required competencies and pass the national psychology exam. This study sought to evaluate key stakeholders’ perceptions about outcomes achieved by the pilot CoreConnect program.
Method:
A mixed methods design was adopted. A sample of 17 provisional psychologists, seven clinical supervisors, and six employers participated in this study. Data was collected longitudinally via surveys and/or participant interview over the initial 12-months of the program.
Results:
Participants indicated CoreConnect contributed to increased professional knowledge, skills and confidence in the provisional psychologists. Satisfaction ratings with CoreConnect were consistently high. Time and cost savings were reported by supervisors and employers. CoreConnect was seen to increase the attraction, recruitment, and retention of provisional psychologists within employing organisations. Participants suggested points for improvement, including increasing practical and interactive aspects of the training and greater face-to-face learning to strengthen social connections.
Conclusion:
This evaluation showed key stakeholders valued the contribution of the pilot CoreConnect program. Findings included positive learning outcomes, experiences and satisfaction for participants as well as time and cost savings for supervisors and employers. This model is likely to be of interest in supporting psychology workforce development, particularly in rural areas.