Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>Higher education institutions are tasked with updating their curricula to address the changing needs of mental health care. There is a shift towards less specialized training in clinical psychology, leading to a lack of essential skills among new psychologists. Addressing this, a course at a Chilean university introduces students to the foundational theories and practices of clinical psychology. The curriculum, especially in its fifth semester, focuses on developing practical skills such as conducting interviews, crisis management, and identifying and responding to suicide risks. A key pedagogical technique used is role-playing, where students engage in clinical interviews with an actor playing a patient, followed by a video analysis in a subsequent class. This approach has been well-received by students, who find it a novel and impactful way of learning. Insights from students in clinical internships reflect on the translation of their academic preparation into real-world psychotherapy skills. The overall sentiment advocates for educational strategies that provide an in-depth exploration of the students’ thought processes and experiences, which is crucial for their professional development.</jats:p>