Integrating French second-language experiences into clinical psychology training to enhance retention of English-speaking trainees
This project addresses the need for culturally and linguistically sensitive mental health services, with a focus on supporting English-speaking clinical psychology trainees in Québec. Many trainees leave the province after graduation due to challenges related to French-language requirements and the difficulty of building a sustainable practice that includes Francophone clients, which contributes to a shortage of English-speaking mental health professionals.
The study examines a new initiative at Concordia University that integrates French-language training into clinical psychology education for English-speaking trainees. It aims to understand how this approach may improve training experiences and support long-term retention in the province.
The project combines a systematic review of international best practices in second-language training for mental health professionals with qualitative interviews. We will speak with 30 clinical psychology trainees, clinical supervisors, and community-based clinicians to better understand their experiences using French in clinical settings.
The findings will be used to produce a report outlining best practices for French-language training and assessment in clinical psychology, with implications for improving trainee retention and strengthening access to bilingual mental health services in Québec.
Outputs:
Evidence synthesis: Following interviews with trainees and supervisors, the team conducted a global systematic review to identify best practices for second-language training of mental health clinicians, aligned with the study’s qualitative analysis.
Final report (forthcoming): Will present theory- and evidence-based guidelines for integrating French second-language training into clinical psychology programs.
Expected impact: Improved retention of English-speaking trainees in Québec and enhanced access to mental health services for English-speaking communities.
Knowledge sharing: The final report will be disseminated to higher education institutions and Centres intégrés universitaires de santé et de services sociaux to support collaboration and strengthen health and social services for English-speaking populations.