Program Aims

The doctoral program in clinical psychology at WSPP is organized around principles inspired by the Vail Conference, but also reflects some values (e.g. personalized mentorship relationships) unique to our identity as a small, independent, non-profit graduate program. The application of these principles to a diverse clinical population through the integration of didactic, practicum, and service experiences in the context of personalized, mentorship relationships characterizes the essence of our approach to graduate training.

The overarching aims of our training program are:

Aim 1:  Students will demonstrate understanding of the foundations of scientific psychology.

Aim 2:  Students will possess effective intra- and interpersonal qualities, including self-awareness, appropriate relationships and respect for diversity.

Aim 3:  Students will be competent in basic clinical areas of assessment, intervention and the integration of research and clinical activities.

Aim 4:  Students will be competent and ethical in their roles as professionals, including consultation, management, and supervision.

Aim 5:  Students will be socially responsible professionals who understand the needs of disenfranchised groups.