Assistant/Associate Psychologist Survey |
Background
Health New Zealand/Te Whatu Ora[1] is proposing the development of a new role for an Assistant or Associate Psychologist (AP) to increase the mental health workforce. The title is yet to be confirmed and will be referred to here as AP. A new accredited qualification (yet to be developed), would provide post-graduate training for psychology graduates[2], leading to NZPB registration. APs would have set competencies (including cultural), work under supervision, and work only in a team setting. It is envisaged that a career pathway may be developed for APs to go on to further training as psychologists.
Feedback required
Feedback required
Gathering feedback from key stakeholders is a vital part of developing a new scope of practice. Te Whatu Ora started by forming an AP Advisory Group (APAG)[3]. NZPS and NZCCP have also asked their members for initial responses to the concept. With the recent release of the “Guidance for development of the AP Workforce and Role Description” by Te Whatu Ora, the Board is now asking for your feedback. Please complete the attached survey to have input into this important development in our profession.
Summary of Guidance for development of AP Workforce and Role Description
Summary of Guidance for development of AP Workforce and Role Description
Please read Guidance by clicking HERE for full details before completing the survey.
Survey Deadline - 13 Decemeber 2024, 17.00
[1] The proposal to develop an AP role originated with the Mental Health and Addictions Workforce Enablement team at Te Whatu Ora, so this initiative is primarily focussed on the mental health and addictions workforce.
[2] The Mental Health and Addictions Workforce plan also refers to plans to increase the number of internships for training psychologists.
[3] APAG comprises representatives with Lived Experience, tertiary education providers including Te Wananga, psychologists from primary and secondary mental health services (including a kaupapa Māori service provider), representatives of professional bodies (NZPS, NZCCP, He Paiaka Totara, and Pasifikology) and NZPB.
[1] The proposal to develop an AP role originated with the Mental Health and Addictions Workforce Enablement team at Te Whatu Ora, so this initiative is primarily focussed on the mental health and addictions workforce.
[2] The Mental Health and Addictions Workforce plan also refers to plans to increase the number of internships for training psychologists.
[3] APAG comprises representatives with Lived Experience, tertiary education providers including Te Wananga, psychologists from primary and secondary mental health services (including a kaupapa Māori service provider), representatives of professional bodies (NZPS, NZCCP, He Paiaka Totara, and Pasifikology) and NZPB.