Competence and scope of practice: Ethics and professional development

Abstract

In this article, I discuss the importance of the psychotherapist's capacities and attributes that go beyond formal education and training as they relate to both readiness for clinical training and continued competence throughout one's professional life. Professional development is essential to the maintenance of professional competence as a psychotherapist. Principles and standards from the American Psychological Association's (2002) Ethics Code are reviewed and illustrated with clinical vignettes. In striving to maintain competence, psychotherapists are strongly encouraged to focus on proactive selfcare and professional development in addition to complying with the formal continuing education mandated by most states. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.