Competencies expected for postdoctoral fellows are consistent with APA Core Competencies guidelines suggesting advanced practice in the areas of patient care, clinical knowledge, practice-based learning and improvement, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism, and systems-based practice. Competencies have been specifically designed to help track progress in these areas. Fellows typically enter at the level of Intermediate in basic clinical skills and move toward the Advanced level at the end of the Fellowship (ADPTC & CCTC, 2007). Fellows are provided a copy of the competencies at the start of the training year and will be evaluated at the end of each rotation (3-6 months depending on training needs and interests) by all supervising faculty (forms available on the website). Fellows will then be evaluated a total of 2-4 times per rotation. Fellows will evaluate their supervisors at the end of each rotation and conduct an exit interview to give their feedback on the Fellowship program.
Our guiding philosophy is that most problems are best resolved through direct interaction between the Fellow and supervisor or other staff member as part of the ongoing working relationship. Fellows are encouraged to first discuss any problems or concerns with the supervisor or staff member involved. In turn, supervisors and staff members are expected to be receptive to complaints, attempt to develop a solution with the Fellow, and to seek appropriate consultation. In addition to the evaluations, the Training Committee meets monthly to discuss broader training issues and Fellows’ progress. Should any concerns be noted by the Training Committee, Fellows will be notified within one week by the Training Director or a faculty mentor to address concerns for timely feedback. Please see the Due Process and Grievance Policies and Procedures document (also page 17 of the handbook) regarding concerns for Fellow performance and/or behavior and concerns.