Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology

The degree of Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) is a service-oriented degree emphasizing clinical skills. The program leading to the Psy.D. is based on a practitionerscholar model and is committed to the Vail model of training and the training conferences of the National Council of Schools and Programs of Professional Psychology (NCSPP). Florida Tech was the first university in the southeast to offer the Psy.D. and the model of training that it represents. In addition to classes and seminars, the training program in clinical psychology includes supervised experience in testing, diagnosis, counseling and therapy, and research projects related to special fields of interest. Before completing the doctorate, students complete one year of supervised internship training. Graduates are licensed throughout the United States and hold positions of responsibility in mental health clinics, hospitals, medical centers, HMOs and independent practice.Students are expected to be aware of a range of theories of human nature and of various treatment modalities. Students are encouraged to assess the problems of the clients, to select the procedures for behavioral change most appropriate to the problem, to assess the effectiveness of the therapy and, if necessary, to select alternate procedures. Every effort is made to emphasize the value and dignity of psychology as a profession. To this end, the importance of a problem-solving approach, as well as knowledge of the results of scientific investigations in psychology and the other behavioral sciences, is stressed.