Course Descriptions: Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology with Emphasis in Depth Psychology
Course Descriptions
PRACTICUM SEMINARS
The Practicum Seminars prepare students for applied clinical work in practicum and internship sites. Practicum Seminars offer students a forum to integrate academic coursework with the clinical experiences from their practicum sites. Practicum Seminars also serve as a place for students to be mentored into the profession by the Clinical Psychology Faculty in order to develop a strong professional identity as a clinical psychologist with a depth specialty.
During the first year Practicum Seminars focus on professional development in preparation for a diagnostic practicum. During the first year students begin the process of developing an identity as a professional psychologist with a depth psychology specialty. The second year focus is on diagnostics and preparation for psychotherapeutic practicum. Second year seminars are designed to offer students a forum by which to integrate diagnostic experiences of their practicum sites with their academic coursework. The third year focus is on the practice of psychotherapy, particularly from a depth psychological perspective. Third year seminars are designed to offer students a forum by which to integrate psychotherapeutic experiences of practicum sites with academic coursework. During fourth year students may participate in other opportunities offered at Pacifica to extend their therapeutic skills or work toward completion of their dissertation.
Professional Development Seminar I CY 755, 1 unit
This seminar provides an initial exposure to the professional practice of psychology with focus on ethical practices, basic clinical skills, and attention to issues of context, ethics and diversity. Professional values, attitudes and behaviors as well as relational skills are emphasized. Engagement in community mental health settings through volunteer and paid participation is introduced. Pass/No Pass
Professional Development Seminar II CY 756, 1 unit
This seminar provides an initial exposure to the professional practice of psychology with focus on ethical practices, basic clinical skills, and attention to issues of context and diversity. Professional
values, attitudes and behaviors as well as relational skills are emphasized. Engagement in community
mental health settings through volunteer and paid participation is explored and developed. Pass/No Pass
Professional Development Seminar III CY 757, 1 unit
This seminar expands professional preparation for the advanced practice in doctoral practicum training. The focus is given to development of case conceptualization, integration of depth and non-depth strategies across clinical settings, and application of ethical knowledge to working with complex cases. Crisis assessment skills, including assessment of suicidal and violent behaviors, are stressed. Professional values, attitudes and behaviors as well as relational skills are emphasized. Ethical and legal considerations and practice are discussed. Pass/No Pass
1st Year Annual Assessment for Program Advancement CY 758, 0 units
In this module, each student will have a face-to-face evaluation by Clinical Psychology Faculty to assess academic, clinical, and research progress as well as professional values, attitudes and behaviors in order to advance to the second year of the clinical program and to a Supervision Practicum. Pass/No Pass. No Incompletes.
Assessment Practicum Seminar ICY 759, 1 unit
This seminar is designed to assist students in the integration of clinical training and issues at their practicum sites with the academic coursework at Pacifica. The students discuss issues of case formulation, assessment, crisis evaluation, and treatment planning. Ethical and cultural aspects of clinical practice and supervision are emphasized. Communication and interpersonal skills are specifically highlighted and examined. Prerequisite: CY 758. Pass/No Pass
Assessment Practicum Seminar II CY 760, 1 unit
This seminar continues assisting students in the ongoing integration of clinical training and issues at their practicum sites with coursework at Pacifica. The students discuss issues related to affective regulation, therapeutic communication, symptomology, and function of defenses. Ethical and cultural aspects of clinical practice and supervision are emphasized. Communication and interpersonal skills are specifically highlighted and examined. Prerequisite: CY 758. Pass/No Pass
Assessment Practicum Seminar III CY 761, 1 unit
This seminar completes the second-year diagnostic practicum sequence. It offers students a forum by which to further integrate clinical training and issues at their practicum site with academic coursework at Pacifica. Psychodynamic and depth psychological conceptualization skills are integrated within the context of other professional diagnostic frameworks, including the DSM-5, ICD-10 and PDM. Diagnostic criteria as well as issues of transference and countertransference, boundaries, and projective functions are discussed. Ethical and cultural aspects of clinical practice and supervision are emphasized. Communication and interpersonal skills are specifically highlighted and examined. Prerequisite: CY 758. Pass/No Pass
2nd Year Annual Assessment for Program Advancement CY 762, 0 units
In this assessment, each student will be evaluated to assure readiness to perform in the advanced practicum with an emphasis on case conceptualization, integration of foundational psychological knowledge and practice, and interpersonal skills. Pass/No Pass. No Incompletes. Prerequisite: CY 758
Psychotherapy Practicum Seminar I CY 763, 1 unit
This seminar offers students a forum in which to integrate psychotherapy experiences of practicum with academic coursework at Pacifica. This seminar will include topics on empathy and attunement to affect, relational function, managing boundaries in psychotherapy, working with diverse client demographic and clinical characteristics, and integrating evidence-based best practices. Professional values, attitudes and behaviors as well as communication and interpersonal skills are emphasized. Prerequisite: CY 762. Pass/No Pass
Psychotherapy Practicum Seminar II CY 764, 1 unit
This seminar offers students a forum to integrate the psychotherapeutic experiences of their practicum site with academic coursework. Scheduled topics include Imaginal techniques in therapy, therapeutic use of dreams, the therapeutic frame, transference/countertransference, and continued discussion of appropriate therapeutic boundaries. Institutional and relational dynamics of working in inter-professional community settings are reviewed. Professional and ethical values, attitudes and behaviors as well as communication and interpersonal skills are reviewed. Prerequisite: CY 762 Pass/No Pass
Psychotherapy Practicum Seminar III CY 765, 1 unit
This seminar is the final seminar in the psychotherapy sequence. This seminar provides students a forum to continue the integration of their psychotherapeutic experiences at their practicum site with academic coursework. Topics include advanced skills in active listening, appropriate use of interpretations, importance of personal and professional boundaries in psychotherapy and issues related to the development of independent practice or professional career in community mental health settings. Professional values, attitudes and behaviors as well as communication and interpersonal skills are reviewed. Pass/ No Pass. Prerequisite: CY 762
3rd Year Annual Assessment for Program Advancement CY 766, 0 units
In this module, each student will have an evaluation by Clinical Psychology Faculty to assess academic, clinical, and research progress in order to advance to the fourth year of the clinical psychology program. Pass/No Pass. No Incompletes. Prerequisite: CY 762
CLINICAL PRACTICE COURSES
The Clinical Practice courses provide a broad foundation for the development of a generalist practitioner in clinical psychology with diverse training in multiple psychotherapeutic orientations, assessment, consulting, and evidence-based best practices.
History and Systems of Psychology CY 700, 2 units
Students will explore the evolution of psychological concepts in Western history from antiquity to the present era. The course will examine and critique how the historic development of the schools of psychoanalysis, behaviorism, Gestalt, humanistic and postmodern psychology has led to current practices in clinical psychology. The importance of a multicultural and critical perspectives will be emphasized. The systems developed throughout history to define and treat mental illness will be evaluated. The course will examine the history of organized and professional U.S. psychology in the context of current trends in clinical psychology as a scientific discipline and an applied profession.
Cognitive and Intellectual Assessment CY 930, 3 units
The psychological assessment course series begins with the study of psychometric theory including test construction, standardization, validity, reliability, and the appropriate and ethical use of assessment for individuals from diverse backgrounds. The administration, scoring, and interpretation of the Wechsler intelligence scales, Wechsler Memory Scales-IV, and Bender Visual Motor Gestalt Test are highlighted with special emphasis on integrating the results with clinical judgment, effective report writing, evidence-based treatment planning, and communication of assessment results. The course will focus on foundational psychometric theory in the context of emphasizing practical, evidence-based best practices in cognitive assessment.
Objective Personality Assessment CY 931, 3 units
The course focuses on foundational psychometric theory in the context of emphasizing practical, evidence-based best practices in personality assessment. Students learn the principles of personality assessment and learn how to administer, score, and interpret instruments including the MMPI-2, MCMI-III, CPI, PAI, MBTI, and BDI-II. Students are provided with an overview of neuropsychological assessment including structured interviewing, review of typical neuropsychological batteries, and strategies of interpreting and integrating neuropsychological assessment data. Integrating results into client-centered, case-focused, and therapeutic reports for clinical, vocational, medical, and forensic settings is emphasized. Prerequisite: CY 930
Projective Personality Assessment CY 938, 2 units
This course focuses on psychometric theories and practical applications of performance-based personality instruments (projectives) with an emphasis on the Rorschach. Course also includes examination of the Thematic Apperception Test, Sentence Completion Test and projective drawings. Information derived from performance-based personality assessment is used to develop therapeutic, client-centered, case-focused reports that describe the psychological background of the client as well as answer the referral question. An emphasis on using assessment results to enhance the therapeutic process by utilizing evidence-based best practices is made.
Clinical Interviewing CY 940, 1 unit
Students learn the essential skill sets involved in biopsychosocial assessment and related clinical interviewing. The course focuses on how to conduct a clinical interview as part of an initial assessment. The course also examines the ethical dilemmas, interdisciplinary conflicts, human diversity and system of care issues that surface during the clinical interview. Child abuse and reporting, suicide and homicide assessment are emphasized. Students practice their interviewing skills through mock case presentations, role play, vignettes, and other forms of case applications.
Comparative Approaches to Psychotherapy CY 770, 2 units
This course provides a theoretical and applied introduction to current approaches in psychotherapeutic treatment and their applications within community based settings, including independent, group (non-profit) and publically funded mental health practice settings. Students examine the therapeutic applications and the theoretical tenets of the schools of psychoanalysis, Jungian analysis, cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, humanistic/existential, and postmodern psychology within the scope of practice in these settings. Students develop the ability to compare, contrast and integrate psychotherapeutic approaches in the context of clinical research, evidence-based best practices, and utility for serving the needs of diverse individuals and communities. Depth psychological practices used in a wide-range of practice settings, such as sandplay therapy, will be introduced. This class will also emphasize practical aspects of developing independent or group clinical practice that address varied mental health needs.
Legal, Ethical, and Professional Practice CY 832, 2 units
The ethical and legal considerations involved in the practice of clinical and scientific psychology are examined with an emphasis on the American Psychological Association’s ethical guidelines. The course features discussion of key issues involved in academic work, research and professional practice with an emphasis on the development of ethical and professional judgment. Child abuse assessment and reporting as well as suicide and homicide prevention and intervention are emphasized. Topics include forensic psychology, cultural competence, malpractice, and legal responsibilities. This course meets the criteria set forth by the California Board of Psychology for training in Legal, Ethical, and Professional Practice required for California licensure.
Advanced Psychopathology I CY 730, 2 units
This course emphasizes key concepts related to psychopathology, including dominant and critical contemporary paradigms in diagnosis and conceptualization. The course stresses the phenomenology, structural organization and psychodynamics of typical psychological processes. Psychoanalytic and depth therapeutic approach to psychopathology will be illustrated. Major affective states and the psychodynamics, disorganization of personality, including in severe mental illness, will be explored. Diagnostic and nosological approaches in mental health are reviewed including the DSM-5, ICD-10, and PDM-2.
Advanced Psychopathology II CY 731, 2 units
This course will focus on the diagnosis, psychodynamics, and treatment of disintegrated and disordered personality organizations. Borderline, narcissistic, hysterical, obsessive, and paranoid organizations of self and consciousness will be focused. Issues of negation, destructiveness, masochism, and narcissism will be studied in depth. Envy, rage, shame, humiliation, and their relationship to early traumas and primitive mental states will be explored. Impairment in symbol formation, blank depression and difficulties in mourning will be studied. Prerequisite: CY 730
Biological Foundations of Human Behavior CY 735, 3 units
Students examine the theoretical concepts and constructs that explain the phylogenic origins underlying human experience, behavior, and the processes of change. This course reviews anatomical and neurological functioning, examining the importance on behavior of micro- biological systems (neuron, synapse, neurotransmitter systems) and macro-level biological systems (central and autonomic nervous systems). Current trends in psychological research regarding the neurobiological foundation of consciousness, dreaming, sensory-motor systems, cognitions, motivation, memory, mindfulness, and attention will be evaluated. The sense of a biological self in relation to attachment, trauma, empathy, neuroplasticity, and the expression of archetypes throughout the life cycle will be examined.
Principles of Psychopharmacology CY 873, 3 units
This course examines the principles of psychopharmacology as well as an overview of pertinent neurochemistry. The indications and side effects of common psychoactive medications are evaluated. The impact of medications on the psychotherapeutic process and the importance of a coordinated treatment plan with the prescribing medical provider are examined. Issues of ethical and cultural values in pharmacological questions are raised. Prerequisite: CY 735
Alcohol, Chemical Dependency, and Addictive Behaviors CY 900, 2 units
This course covers the theory and treatment of addictive behaviors. Areas covered in this course include current theories of etiology, physiological and medical aspects of substance abuse and dependence, psychopharmacological and interaction of varied classes of drugs, dual-diagnosis, cultural and ethnic considerations, iatrogenic dependency, treatment approaches, differences in populations related to substance abuse, prenatal effects of abuse, implications for elderly clients, referral process, family issues, prevention and education, and ethical and legal issues. The course meets the criteria set forth by the California Board of Psychology for training in Alcoholism/Chemical Dependency Detection and Treatment required for licensure.
Social Foundations of Human Behavior I CY 800, 3 units
This course studies current advancements in social psychology and provides an overview of the three main areas of social psychological thought which include social thinking, social influence, and social relations. Social thinking area includes discussion of self, beliefs, judgments, and attitudes. The study of social influence includes the impact of culture, conformity, persuasion, and group behavior on social functioning. Social relations area examines social relationships and how they are influenced by prejudice, aggression, attraction, and helping. This course emphasizes social thinking and social relationships as well as current social psychological research findings and the role of depth psychology in each of these areas.
Social Foundations of Human Behavior II CY 802, 3 units
This course continues the examination of social psychology with an emphasis on social influence which includes the principles and theory of group formation and development, impact of culture on group behavior, conformity, and persuasion. The course also examines current research in group dynamics, interpersonal behavior, intimacy, leadership, and helping. Discussion also includes relevance of social psychological research to clinical practice and depth psychology.
Psychotherapy with Diverse Populations CY 845, 2 units
Cultural competence or the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to work effectively as a diversity-focused and social justice oriented clinician are an ethical responsibility in a multicultural society. This course examines the role of culture in psychotherapy and assessment, as well as key issues in the provision of psychological services with individuals or communities, which face cultural and institutional forms of oppression and have been marginalized within systems of social care. Biases in traditional clinical theory and practice are discussed, while culturally relevant intervention strategies with individuals of different cultural backgrounds are introduced. Depth psychological concepts in relation to culture, such as the notion of an ethnic or minority unconscious, cultural trauma, and cultural complexes are also explored.
Developmental Psychology I – Childhood through Adolescence CY 830, 2 units
Students study developmental theories, constructs, research, and methods as they contribute to understanding normative human development and its variants in early childhood and adolescence. Emphasis is on the psychological, biological and neurological development from conception through childhood and adolescence and attachment issues that shape early human development. Childhood experiences of violence and trauma are emphasized. Current developmental and biopsychosocial research, clinical implications, cultural considerations, and contemporary trends in childhood and adolescent development are examined.
Developmental Psychology II – Adulthood through Old Age CY 801, 3 units
This course continues the study of developmental theories, constructs, research, and methods as they contribute to understanding normative human development and its variants in adulthood through old age. Emphasis is on the psychological, social, biological, and neurological development during adulthood and the later stages of life. Special focus is given to aging and long term care, elder violence and abuse, end of life meaning, and life-long psychological development as part of developmental human trajectory. Specifically, the course provides a review of biological, social, and psychological aspects of aging as well as multicultural and clinical considerations in regard to these experiences.
Principles of Clinical Supervision, Consultation, and Community Assessment CY 752, 2 units
This course provides an exposure to the professional role of psychologists as supervisors and consultants. Theories and approaches to clinical supervision and consultation are examined with special attention given to the interpersonal and psychodynamic aspects of the supervisor-supervisee interaction within broader practice and cultural context. Ethics, diversity, and other professional issues related to clinical supervision and consultation are examined within community mental health and independent practice settings. This course is also designed to introduce students to program evaluation theories and techniques related with focus on community-based assessment of psychological needs and access to care. Grant writing skills with implications for community mental health services will be emphasized.
Integrative and Interprofessional Treatment Approaches CY 920, 1 unit
The course introduces students to foundations of integrative and inter-professional functioning as a psychologist within health care and community-based settings. In addition to collaborative team approaches, students will learn about integrative assessment practices, family and community systems of care, prevention, and collaborative interventions. Integration of depth psychological values and principles within inter-professional settings serves as a framework for the course.
Mindfulness and Imagery in Integrative Treatment CY 923, 1 unit
This course is designed to introduce students to mindfulness practice and imagery as applied to integrative health service settings and patient-centered healthcare frameworks. Practical application will be emphasized. Ethical and cultural aspects are incorporated.
Evidence-Based Psychotherapy CY 913, 2 units
This course is an overview of clinical treatments that are supported by applied research in psychology. The latest findings in outcome research regarding therapeutic interventions are evaluated and critiqued. Interventions and combinations of interventions for the major disorders are examined, as well as the integration of individual, group, and psychopharmacological therapy. Specific focus is given to short term psychoanalytic and psychodynamic approaches as well as the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of depth psychological practices.
Gender and Human Sexuality CY 901, 1 unit
This course will focus on cultural, historical, theoretical and clinical constructions of gender and sexuality. Biological and psychological as well as socio-cultural variables associated with gender, sexual identity, sexual desire, sexual behavior and disorders are discussed. Feminist, critical, cross-cultural and depth psychological lens will be applied within the material. The course meets the criteria set forth by the California Board of Psychology for training in Human Sexuality required for licensure
Cognitive Foundations of Human Behavior CY 837, 3 units
This course examines the interdependence of cognition and emotion in psychological experience and behavior. Discussion of this relationship includes the interactive influence of perception, attention, learning, memory, contextual appraisals and biases, emotional regulation, creative thinking, conscious and unconscious processing and problem solving. Related topics include sensation, perception, memory, cognition, emotion, motivation, and psychophysiological processes.
Community, Mental Health, Public Policy, and Depth Psychology CY 825, 2 units
This course emphasizes how public policy impacts all aspects of clinical practice in both the public and private mental health service delivery system. Mental health policy practices will be explored. Students learn how to utilize the principles of depth psychology in the community mental health system. The importance of learning administrative skills to improve service delivery is emphasized including the development of administrative strategies that include the Jungian concepts of organizational archetypes, complexes, and the shadow in order to create effective work place environments.
Indigenous Approaches to Psychology CY 803, 1 unit
The course will introduce students to indigenous approaches to psychology, which emphasize integration of culturally relevant forms of healing as well as diverse traditions in addressing the psychological, physical and spiritual challenges faced by individuals, families, and communities. Integrative views on mind-body-spirit will be discussed. The course will review history and current practices employed by indigenous healers both outside and inside the U.S. The efficacy of alternative healing traditions will be explored in the context of cultural diversity as well as current psychological practices.
Affective Foundations of Human Behavior CY 838, 2 units
This course aims to provide an overview and clinical implications of understanding the development of affective regulation related to psychological functioning. In addition to discussing theories of emotions and emotional regulation, the course focuses on how capacity for affective self-regulation and communication is influential in intrapersonal and relational functioning of individuals and communities. Discussion of emotion involves the biological and social bases of emotion, its cognitive correlates, and the impact on emotional states. Specifically, the course emphasizes classic and contemporary psychoanalytic and Jungian literature on affective foundations of human behavior.
Violence and Trauma CY 834, 3 units
The course will review the occurrence of violence in intimate relationships and families with special focus on partner and child abuse, detection, intervention and prevention. The intrapersonal and interpersonal dynamics related to trauma and recovery will be discussed. The coursework also provides coverage of partner and child abuse assessment and reporting. The impact of early trauma, including splitting, dissociation, and interjection as well as depth psychological treatment approaches will be emphasized. The course meets the criteria set forth by the California Board of Psychology for training in Child Abuse and Spousal/Partner Abuse required for licensure.
Personal Psychotherapy CP 950, 0 units
During the program, students must take part in a total of 60 hours of personal psychotherapy (preferably with a depth orientation) with a licensed psychotherapist or a certified analyst of their choice.
DEPTH PSYCHOLOGY AND THE HUMANITIES COURSES
The Depth Psychology and the Humanities courses prepare clinical students for the practice of a specialty in depth (psychoanalytic and Jungian) psychology. This includes an understanding of the rich traditions of depth psychology, the humanities, and interdisciplinary and cultural studies. Students learn how literature, culture, myth, history, and art infuse the science of clinical psychology and the practice of psychotherapy.
The coursework in the theory and practice of Jungian and psychoanalytic psychotherapy is presented in an organized and sequential manner in order for students to develop strong psychotherapeutic skills in the practice of depth psychology throughout the academic program.
Introduction to Depth Psychology and the Human Science Traditions CY 819, 2 units
This course is a scholarly introduction to the theories and traditions of depth psychology with an emphasis on the role that depth psychology attributes to the unconscious. Exploration of the cultural-historical and multicultural contexts of depth psychology in relation to myth, religion, philosophy, art and literature is highlighted. Particular attention is given to the origins of depth psychology in the works of Sigmund Freud and C.G Jung, subsequent scholarly and clinical developments in depth psychological traditions, as well as contemporary elaborations in depth psychology.
Jungian-Based Psychotherapy I CY 810, 2 units
Classical Jungian concepts such as ego, Self, persona, shadow, anima/animus, archetype, collective unconscious, transcendent function, and individuation are examined. Clinical application of Jungian thought is demonstrated through theoretical discussions, case examples, and the reading of primary Jungian sources. Particular attention is given to understanding how various forms of psychopathology can be imagined as manifestations of ego-Self axis dynamics. An analysis is provided of the critiques of Jungian concepts from postmodern and multicultural perspectives.
Jungian-Based Psychotherapy II CY 811, 2 units
This course will expand consideration of classical Jungian concepts to include the individuated ego, personal and collective shadow, the contra-sexual archetypes anima/animus, manifestations of the Self, dreams and numinous experiences, and their application to clinical practice. In addition, Jungian typology is examined, archetypal figures and patterns explored and the use of myths in depth psychotherapy elaborated. The course also examines the works of post-Jungian scholars. Students continue the work of self-reflection to further their individuation process as central to their work as clinical and depth psychologists. Prerequisite: CY 810
Post-Jungian Based Psychotherapy CY 815, 2 units
This course examines the works of post-Jungian theorists and scholars. Archetypal and Imaginal psychology contributions are examined. The course discusses recent developments in the evolution of Jungian thought and practice, which includes cultural, alchemical, neuroscientific, somatic, and ecological considerations. The importance of cultural myths and wisdom traditions is explored in relation to their applicability to clinical practice. Social psychological processes and multicultural imagination are emphasized. Prerequisites: CY 810, CY 811.
Psychoanalytic-Based Psychotherapy I CY 711, 2 units
This course focuses on the fundamental assumptions underlying psychoanalytic treatment beginning with the seminal contributions of Sigmund Freud and early psychoanalytic scholars. The establishment of the therapeutic frame and the building of a therapeutic alliance are examined. Students explore the complexities of the transference-countertransference field and develop an understanding and rationale of specific types of psychoanalytic interventions. The course provides the basis for exploration of current trends in psychoanalytic assessment and treatment.
Psychoanalytic-Based Psychotherapy II CY 712, 2 units
This course continues examining psychoanalytic theory and practice, including a focus on cultural dimensions of practice. In particular, the contributions of classic and contemporary psychoanalytic scholars who delineated the dynamics and treatment of varied psychological states and conditions are emphasized. The psychoanalytic techniques are examined from multiple theoretical standpoints within psychoanalytic frame. Different approaches to the therapeutic frame and to psychoanalytic interpretation are also highlighted. Multicultural and critical approaches within psychoanalysis are presented and applied. Prerequisite: CY 711
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy III CY 715, 2 units
This course in the psychoanalytic sequence addresses current trends in psychoanalytic thought including social psychoanalysis, multicultural psychoanalysis, neuropsychoanalysis and psychodynamic research and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Students examine ways to integrate the variety of psychoanalytic perspectives into an analytic framework in their clinical practice. Prerequisites: CY 711, CY 712
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy IV CY 716, 2 units
The final course in the psychoanalytic sequence addresses current trends in psychoanalytic thought including social psychoanalysis, multicultural psychoanalysis, neuropsychoanalysis and psychodynamic research and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Students examine ways to integrate the variety of psychoanalytic perspectives into an analytic perspective in their clinical practice. Prerequisites: CY 711, CY 712, CY 715
RESEARCH AND SCHOLARLY INQUIRY COURSES
The program of study in research provides a solid grounding in both quantitative and qualitative research traditions while specializing in innovative human science methodologies addressing the multiple dimensions of psychological life. Research courses emphasize the complementary interdependence of clinical intervention and empirical inquiry providing the skills necessary to complete a Dissertation in order to make a significant research contribution to the practice of clinical psychology. The Dissertation research process is integrated throughout the academic program in order to model the importance of research and scholarly inquiry in the daily practice of a clinical psychologist. The integration of the Dissertation with the academic program assures the completion of doctoral research in order to advance in a timely manner toward Internship and licensure as a clinical psychologist.
Theories of Psychometric Measurement CY 933, 3 units
The course covers classical and current psychometric theory and procedures involved in constructing and evaluating measurement instruments in clinical psychology including the key concepts of scale development. Cronbach’s alpha, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, types of reliability and validity, multi-trait and multi-method validation, item response theory, psychometric scaling and structural equation modeling are examined.
Statistics and Quantitative Research Designs and Methods I CY 950, 3 units
This course provides an overview of univariate statistical methods or those pertaining to analysis of a single, continuous, dependent variable. The goal of this overview is to prepare students to be competent and critical consumers of quantitative research for clinical practice. An applied overview of both descriptive and inferential statistics is provided. Topics covered include: (1) Descriptive statistics (Measurement scales, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, measures of spread (variability), measures of linear relationships, and standard scores), and (2) Inferential statistics (hypothesis testing, correlation and regression, Z-tests, t-tests, one way analysis of variance, Chi-Square tests and estimation of population parameters from sample data). Survey and experiential approaches to research and clinical investigations are examined.
Statistics and Quantitative Research Designs and Methods II CY 951, 3 units
This course continues to prepare students to be competent and critical consumers of quantitative research for clinical practice by the examination and applicability of advanced quantitative methods including multivariate statistical analysis. This course assists students in becoming skilled in reading, understanding, and using quantitative research designs. Course also examine the broad principles and application of multivariate statistical models for the design of quantitative studies and the treatment of data as well as the statistical methods employed in clinical research studies. Topics include multivariate analysis of variance and covariance, factor analysis, binary logistic regression, multiple regression, discriminant analysis, power, and meta-analysis. Prerequisite: CY 950.
Qualitative Research Designs and Methods CY 952, 2 units
The course examines major human science traditions such as phenomenology, narrative approaches, ethnography, grounded theory, focus groups, hermeneutic approaches and case study. Theory and praxis of these approaches are examined within a particular qualitative methodology (i.e., phenomenology). Emphasis is given to ethics and cultural diversity as well as the parallels between research and clinical practice.
Dissertation Development CY 955, 2 units
This course emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills related to evaluating research studies and the writing of a dissertation in clinical psychology. The course focuses on the completion of an initial proposal, which contains a literature review of the seminal sources, a well-defined clinical research question, a preliminary review of method(s) to be used in addressing the question and an explication of the relevance of the question for the practice of clinical psychology. Prerequisites: CY 950, CY 951, CY 952 Pass/No Pass
Advanced Research Methods in Clinical Psychology I CY 956, 3 units
This course focuses on the review of current approaches to applied research in clinical psychology. Particular attention is given to research methodologies as well as the philosophical and epistemological foundations of clinical research. The course results in an advanced review of the literature on a selected topic related to the clinical research question developed for the dissertation. Prerequisite: CY 955 No Incompletes
Advanced Research Methods in Clinical Psychology II CY 957, 2 units
This course critically examines the variety of applied methods in clinical psychology, including both quantitative and qualitative methods as well as theoretical and interpretative approaches. The course results in an advanced application of selected research methods to the clinical research question of the dissertation. Prerequisite: CY 955, CY 956 No Incompletes
Dissertation Completion IA, IB, IC CY 958A, CY 958B, CY 958C, 1 Unit Each
At the beginning of the third year in order to assure timely completion of the dissertation students must (1) complete the composition of their dissertation committee, (2) complete Introduction, Literature Review and Methods sections and (3) finalize their ethics application. In addition students are encouraged to begin their data collection and analysis. This course is taken under the direction of the Chair of the dissertation committee and concurrently with third year academic courses. Students are required to complete all three units by the end of the third academic year. No Incompletes. Prerequisite: CY 955
Dissertation Completion IIA, IIB, IIC CY 959A, CY 959B, CY 959C, 1 Unit Each
At the beginning of the fourth year in order to assure timely completion of the dissertation students must (1) complete data collection (2) complete data analysis (3) complete the final dissertation document including Results and Discussion sections (the Discussion section needs to include implications of dissertation for the advancement of the practice of clinical psychology), (4) participate successfully in the Oral Defense of the dissertation and (5) complete the final document edits as required by the Dissertation Office. This course is taken under the direction of the Chair of the dissertation committee and concurrently with fourth year academic courses. Students are required to complete all three units by the end of the fourth academic year to advance to Internship. Pass/No Pass. No Incompletes. Prerequisite: CY 958
Psy.D. Dissertation Completion Extension CY 959ex, 0 units
Students who have not completed Dissertation Completion I or Dissertation Completion II during the third or fourth year register for a dissertation extension. Students will be billed for this extension.
Comprehensive Exam Portfolio CY 989, 0 units
Upon completion of nine quarters of Psy.D. coursework, a student in good academic standing is eligible to take the Comprehensive Exam Portfolio. The Comprehensive Exam Portfolio is designed to assess student competencies in the area of each of the three Program Domains: Depth Psychological Clinical Practice, Research and Scholarly Inquiry, and Community Service and Clinical Engagement. Students must pass all components of the Comprehensive Portfolio in order to advance to Internship. Students must retake any failed portion of the Portfolio within a quarter following the initial submission of the Portfolio. A student is eligible to take an academic tutorial in preparation for re-examination. If a student does not pass any aspect of the Comprehensive Exam Portfolio within two attempts he or she will be academically disqualified. No Incompletes Pass/No Pass
Pre-Doctoral Internship in Clinical Psychology CY 980, 3 units
Pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology is a supervised summative training experience, which integrates academic learning and previous applied clinical training at the practicum level. Upon completion of the academic program, comprehensive exam, dissertation, and 1,000 hours of practicum training, students in good standing are required to complete 1,500 hours of pre-doctoral internship in clinical psychology. Students from California may participate in the California matching system for internships through the California Psychology Internship Council (CAPIC). Candidates for internship must demonstrate readiness to apply for internship to the Director of Clinical Training. Students may apply for financial aid for the initial 3 quarter enrollment period. A quarterly fee will apply. Students must submit quarterly evaluations to be eligible to pass the quarter and register for the next quarter. The inability to pass Internship may result in loss of enrollment status, financial aid, and possible disqualification from the Clinical Psychology Program.
Pre-Doctoral Internship Extension in Clinical Psychology CY 980A, 0 units
Upon completion of three quarters of pre-doctoral internship, all students who are continuing to accrue pre-doctoral internship hours will be eligible to enroll in pre-doctoral internship extension. Students must submit quarterly evaluations to be eligible to pass the quarter and register for the next quarter.
