¶ … Future Trends Using Professional Interviews Response Content The research in this study reports interviews with several clinical psychologists about their current practice and practice methods as well as about their opinions about the future of the practice of clinical psychology.

Similarities and Differences of Professionals Interviewed in Their Approach and Treatment Settings

One psychologist interviewed stated that she uses puppets to assist children in working out their problem and in stimulating the child's mind about the different paths that they may take. The psychologist explained that she uses a turtle puppet to practice behaviors that are brave such as coping and explains that the child tends to use their imagination much more so than do adults do. She offers the advice that it is important for the clinical psychologist to understand what is and what is not within their realm of possibilities to avoid becoming frustrated about their endeavors. In another interview, the psychologist reported that using stories about other imaginary children with the same problems has been a great way to assist children in understanding how they can work through their own problems.

II. Trends and Prospects Shared by Professionals about Future of Clinical Psychology

There are several stated challenges concerning the trends and prospects about clinical psychology for both now and in the future. Included in those challenges is the need for more research "to facilitate a deeper understanding of the fundamental processes of psychological development (normal and abnormal; prenatal to senescence) as an essential precursor to the field's development of more comprehensive models of behavior." (Roberts and Hardi, nd, p.5) This is because with such an understanding being...

(Roberts and Hardi, nd, paraphrased) Research should focus on the identification of "valid and invalid psychotherapies, psychological interventions, and prevention efforts." (Roberts and Hardi, nd, p.5)
Also noted as necessary is the taking of a "measurement of the range of outcomes following psychotherapies and preventive interventions" which can assist in establishing the cost and benefits associated with each of these. It is stated that the "effects of psychological practice (and research) on society in general stand in great need of more rigorous investigation." (Roberts and Hardi, nd, p.6) Stated as well is a challenge relating to the "evaluation of the organization and delivery of a variety of clinical services through program evaluation. There is an ongoing need within the ?eld for evaluative frameworks, methodologies, and instruments that may be applied across the wide variety of settings (e.g., inpatient/outpatient units; clinics and hospitals; private practice) and problems faced…