Psychology & Research in Education
Two degree programs are available in counseling psychology. The doctoral program prepares competent generalists in counseling psychology research and clinical practice, and is accredited by the American Psychological Association* The program (1) includes a required internship in professional psychology, (2) is intended for full-time students, and (3) is typically completed in five to six years.
*American Psychological Association
Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation
750 First Street, NE • Washington, DC • 20002-4242
Phone: 202-336-5979 • TDD/TTY: 202-336-6123
Respect for diversity and for values different from one’s own is a central value of counseling psychology training programs. The valuing of diversity is also consistent with the profession of psychology as reflected by the American Psychological Association’s Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct (2002) and as discussed in the Guidelines and Principles of Programs in Professional Psychology (APA, 2005).
While in the program, students are expected to engage in self-reflection and introspection on their attitudes, beliefs, opinions, feelings and personal history. Further, they are expected to examine and attempt to resolve any of the above to eliminate potential negative impact on their ability to perform the functions of a psychologist, including but not limited to providing effective services to individuals from cultures and with beliefs different from their own and in accordance with APA guidelines and principles.
Evidence of bias, stereotyped thinking, and prejudicial beliefs and attitudes will not go unchallenged, even when such behavior is rationalized as being a function of ignorance, joking, cultural differences, or substance abuse. When these actions result in physical or psychological abuse, harassment, intimidation, substandard psychological services or research, or violence against persons or property, members of the program will intervene appropriately and in a manner consistent with its policies on student conduct (see CPSY Graduate Student Handbook).
The Counseling Psychology Student Organization (CPSO) is composed of MS and Ph.D. students in the program. Meetings and social events are conducted on a regular basis. CPSO provides a number of important functions. Most importantly, it provides a communication channel to the faculty for the students to express their needs and concerns about such issues as curriculum, new faculty selection, etc. CPSO also facilities communication from faculty to students on such issues as program changes and requirements. The organization also provides a means for welcoming new students into the department. Two members are elected annually as student representatives who participate in departmental faculty meetings. Active student participation in CPSO is encouraged.
Bast, Kristen, Ph.D. (one year appointment from 2008-2009) - positive psychology, building and nurturing strengths, training of counselors and psychologists, individual (adult, adolescent, and child) and family therapy, and individuals with disabilities and their families.
Kerr, Barbara Ph.D. (Williamson Family Distinguished Professor of Counseling Psychology) - Optimal human development and positive psychology; counseling of gifted and creative people; gender issues in counseling; spirituality.
Krieshok, Tom, Ph.D. - Vocational psychology theory, assessment, and intervention; personality; decision-making; mindfulness.
Lichtenberg, James, Ph.D. - Clinical judgment and decision making; social interaction processes and dynamics; personality assessment; legal and ethical issues in counseling; treatment/counseling outcomes.
Mikinski, Tamara Ph.D. (Adjunct) - School counseling; counselor training; suicide prevention; test anxiety; integrative health.
Multon, Karen D., Ph.D. (PRE Chair) - Counseling process and outcome (both career and personal counseling); vocational psychology; personality assessment; psychometrics; relationship between psychological and physical health.
