Postgraduate clinical psychology students’ perception of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy stress management intervention and clinical training

Background

Research into stress management interventions for clinical psychology trainees (CPTs) is limited, despite evidence indicating that these individuals are at risk for elevated stress, which can negatively impact personal and professional functioning. This study explored: (1) CPTs' perceptions of a previously evaluated Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) stress management intervention; and (2) their satisfaction with clinical training and suggested programme changes.

Methods

Fifty-six postgraduate clinical psychology students completed questionnaires. Qualitative and quantitative data concerning students' views of an ACT stress management intervention and clinical training were collected.

Results

Most CPTs reported that they would recommend the intervention to other CPTs and that they found it personally and professionally useful. The majority of participants also reported marked improvement on indicators of psychological flexibility. Qualitative data suggested three broad structural changes to clinical training (better preparation prior to commencing clinical work, reduced workload, and better organisation), some of which have implications for curriculum development.

Conclusions

Findings support the use of an ACT stress management intervention for addressing CPT stress and the integration of self-care into the curriculum.