Clinical Training

Training in clinical practice begins with the coursework in personality and psychopathology, clinical assessment, and clinical intervention during the first two years of the program. The integration of science and practice begins in these early courses. During their first year, students take an assessment practicum that gives them direct experience with psychological evaluations. During the summer after the first year students begin practicum at the Psychological Center, which is part of the Psychology Department, and is operated by the clinical faculty. The Center provides low-cost outpatient psychological services to patients referred from other Emory University facilities as well as from the larger Atlanta community. Individual (adult and child), marital/couples, group, and family therapy are provided in addition to psychological assessment. Students are signed up for practicum at the center as long as they are in residence. In addition, student must participate in additional clinical experience at secondary practicum sites in Atlanta, where they can work with particular patient populations. At least one such externship is required before applying for internship. Students must complete an APA-approved clinical internship prior to being awarded the Ph.D.