Telesimulation-based education: validation of an instructional program for developing socratic questioning skills in cognitive behavioral therapy

Telesimulation integrates clinical simulation and technology-mediated education, expanding access to supervised training and skill-based teaching, especially when deliberate practice and structured feedback are required. When we direct this approach to the training of psychologists, especially in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), in which Socratic questioning (SQ) depends on micro-skills and qualified feedback, telesimulation seems promising. This methodological study aimed to develop and validate the content of a telesimulation instructional program to develop SQ in therapists in continuing education. The program included a systematization guide, knowledge assessment, synchronous scenarios with a standardized patient, and structured debriefing, which was evaluated by judges in two rounds for clarity, relevance, and applicability. After revisions, the re-evaluated items achieved full agreement (RVC/CVR=1.0). Limitations include evidence restricted to content validity, so a pilot study and research on effectiveness, transfer to practice, and implementation in different contexts is recommended. https://doi.org/10.21723/riaee.v21i00.1921202