Competencies for Psychology Practice in Pediatric Palliative Care
Authors: "[\"Amanda L Thompson\",\"Rachel S Fisher\",\"Brenda Bursch\",\"Cynthia A Gerhardt\",\"Lori Wiener\",\"Anne E Kazak\"]"
Journal: Journal of Pediatric Psychology
"[\"competencies\",\"critical illness\",\"end-of-life care\",\"interdisciplinary\",\"pediatric palliative care\"]"
Abstract
Objective: Pediatric psychologists have unique expertise to contribute to the care of youth with serious illnesses yet are not routinely integrated into pediatric palliative care teams. To better define the role and unique skillset of psychologists practicing in PPC, support their systematic inclusion as part of PPC teams, and advance trainee knowledge of PPC principles and skills, the PPC Psychology Working Group sought to develop core competencies for psychologists in this subspecialty. The six competency clusters include Science, Application, Education, Interpersonal, Professionalism, and Systems. Each cluster includes essential competencies and behavioral anchors. Competencies help to advocate for inclusion of psychologists as routine members of PPC teams, standardize best practices, and provide optimal care for youth with serious illness and their families.