Many training programs have been set up for volunteers and paraprofessionals who work with the elderly. These programs, however, tend to emphasize basic helping skills. Those already trained in basic psychotherapeutic techniques require advanced training in skills related to psychotherapy and counseling with older adults. The effectiveness of such a training program designed to teach mental health professionals advanced therapy skills with elderly patients was examined with 53 female and 3 male participants. Participants showed statistically significant improvement on the two major assessment devices after completion of the training program. Concomitantly, job satisfaction and perception of preparedness for employment as counselors to the elderly were affected in a positive direction, providing supporting evidence as to the efficacy of the program. The impact of the training was also sustained at the two-month follow-up. Regression analyses revealed that the trainee characteristics most predictive of success in the program were those having to do with prior knowledge and skill; those entering the program with higher levels of expertise tended to improve and learn more in training. (Author)

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