Specialty Competencies in Geropsychology

This volume describes the foundational and functional competencies underlying "geropsychology," the area in professional psychology that focuses on the psychological and behavioral aspects of aging. Officially, CRSPPP had designated "clinical geropsychology" as a proficiency in professional psychology in 1998, rather than as a "specialty." However, it may be considered a specialty within the next few years due to the increase in demand for competent psychological services likely to occur in the near future as a function of the aging of the population within the United States. Based in large part on the Pikes Peaks model for training in professional geropsychology, this book includes multiple chapter authors under the expert editorship of Victor Molinari. As described in chapter 1, "the ultimate goal of geropsychology is to apply scientific findings about psychological aging to improve the lives of older adults". Psychologists interested in working with older adults will find this volume both educational and aspirational. Series in Specialty Competencies in Professional Psychology Series Editors Arthur M. Nezu and Christine Maguth Nezu As the field of psychology continues to grow and new specialty areas emerge and achieve recognition, it has become increasingly important to define the standards of professional specialty practice. Developed and conceived in response to this need for practical guidelines, this series presents methods, strategies, and techniques for conducting day-to-day practice in any given psychology specialty. The topical volumes address best practices across the functional and foundational competencies that characterize the various psychology specialties, including clinical psychology, cognitive and behavioral psychology, school psychology, geropsychology, forensic psychology, clinical neuropsychology, couples and family psychology, and more. Functional competencies include common practice activities like assessment and intervention, while foundational competencies represent core knowledge areas such as ethical and legal issues, cultural diversity, and professional identification. In addition to describing these competencies, each volume provides a definition, description, and development timeline of a particular specialty, including its essential and characteristic pattern of activities, as well as its distinctive and unique features. Written by recognized experts in their respective fields, volumes are comprehensive, up-to-date, and accessible. These volumes offer invaluable guidance to not only practicing mental health professionals, but those training for specialty practice as well.