Program Overview
La Salle University's Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program trains students in evidence-based practice, psychological science, and cultural competency. Emphasizing a practitioner-scholar model, the program offers a blend of coursework, clinical experiences, and research opportunities, preparing graduates for diverse careers in clinical psychology, including psychotherapy, assessment, and research. With a high employment rate and licensing exam pass rate, the program is committed to promoting diversity and social justice in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
La Salle University's Psy.D. Program in Clinical Psychology aims to educate and train students in the science and practice of clinical psychology. The program focuses on equipping students for a variety of professional roles, including psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and clinical research.
Mission:
The program emphasizes a practitioner-scholar model of training, prioritizing a cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientation. The curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, psychological science, theory, ethics, cultural awareness, and individual differences.
Description:
The program is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, or a master's degree in a mental health discipline. It is a five-year full-time program, with part-time options available for the first two years. All graduate degrees must be completed within seven years.
Program Strengths:
- On-campus training clinic utilized by all Psy.D. students for a minimum of two years
- Internship match rate consistently at or above the national average
- Emphasis on mentorship
- Three areas of concentrated study: General Practice, Child Clinical, and Clinical Health
- Multiple training opportunities in various areas like behavioral medicine, neuropsychology, weight/eating, anxiety, suicide prevention, depression, emotion regulation, mindfulness, child psychology and autism
- Annual Diversity Forum
- Two-year practicum progression (with an optional third year)
- Full-year clinical internship
- Clinical dissertation
- 98% alumni employment rate across diverse settings
- Psychology licensing exam pass rate of 89%
Outline:
Program Length:
The program is a five-year full-time program, with options for part-time study for the first two years.
Content:
The program emphasizes a cognitive-behavioral theoretical orientation, focusing on evidence-based practice, psychological science, and cultural competency. It covers areas such as psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and clinical research.
Structure:
The curriculum includes a blend of didactic coursework, supervised clinical experiences, and research opportunities. Students complete a two-year practicum, a full-year clinical internship, and a clinical dissertation.
Course Schedule:
Please refer to the program's official website for a detailed course list.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program utilizes various assessment methods, including:
- Written exams
- Clinical skills assessments
- Case presentations
- Research projects
- Portfolios
Assessment Criteria:
Assessments are based on various criteria, including:
- Knowledge and understanding of psychological principles
- Clinical skills and competencies
- Research ability
- Professionalism and ethics
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs diverse teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Case studies
- Role-playing
- Supervision
- Research mentorship
Faculty:
The program boasts a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members with expertise in various areas of clinical psychology.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes a scientist-practitioner model, integrating research and clinical practice seamlessly. It also emphasizes cultural competency and social justice issues.
Careers:
Career Paths:
Graduates of the program pursue diverse career paths, including:
- Clinical psychologists
- Psychotherapists
- Researchers
- Academics
- Consultants
Opportunities:
The program prepares students for various opportunities in diverse settings, including:
- Hospitals
- Mental health clinics
- Private practice
- Schools
- Research institutions
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have a high employment rate, with 98% securing jobs in various settings. The program also boasts a high psychology licensing exam pass rate of 89%.
Other:
Diversity and Inclusion:
The program is committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Students receive training in cultural humility and are encouraged to deliver culturally-informed services.
Annual Diversity Forum:
The program hosts an annual Diversity Forum to engage in discussions about diversity and social justice issues.
Training Clinic:
All Psy.D. students utilize the on-campus training clinic for a minimum of two years, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Internship Match Rate:
The program's internship match rate consistently meets or exceeds the national average.