Postdoctoral Respecialization

Purpose

To afford an opportunity for doctoral level nonclinical psychologists to shift their career focus to the professional practice of clinical psychology.

Objectives

• To provide knowledge in the theory and practice of clinical psychology.
• To teach applied diagnostic assessment and therapeutic intervention skills based upon psychological knowledge and practice.
• To provide experience in clinical practice in various settings, with children, youth and adults, appropriately supervised by licensed psychologists.
• To convey an appreciation of the broad professional, ethical, and legal contexts within which clinical practice occurs.

Admission

An applicant must have a PhD in psychology from an accredited university, and provide evidence that the proposed career change is reasonable in the context of long term, personal goals and emotional attributes as indicated in records, reference letters, and personal interview.

Matriculation
A candidate is matriculated on the same basis as are other students in the institute. It is anticipated that all trainees will complete the program in three calendar years, including the internship.

Certificate
A trainee is required to carry a full academic course load each year as well as practicum and internship experiences in order to receive the respecialization certificate. In addition the trainee must successfully pass a qualifying examination and a final clinical oral examination.

Program
The institute's graduate doctoral program, in which the respecialization program is embedded, is fully accredited by the American Psychological Association.

The didactic segment covers the nature of psychodynamics and psychopathology of children and adults; diagnostic techniques to assess cognitive and emotional functioning; psychodynamic, behavioral, and cognitive intervention techniques; and ethical and legal issues involved in professional practice.

The first year includes a two-day per week, unreimbursed, supervised practicum placement; the second and third years include a three-day per week, paid internship. The practicum settings are selected so as to provide diversity, as well as some focus relevant to long term goals. The internship is approved by the American Psychological Association.

Maurice Prout, PhD
Director

Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology

Widener University
One University Place
Chester, PA 19013
tel: 610-499-1206
graduate.psychology@widener.edu