About the School of Professional Psychology

Mission

The School of Professional Psychology prepares students for mastery and success in a rapidly evolving, demanding profession. Professional psychology and counseling require a solid grounding in the science of psychology, a keen sense of ethics, strong interpersonal and research skills, and the ability to work in a variety of professional roles with clients from a diverse range of backgrounds. The curriculum is designed to build and integrate these components of professional practice. The School emphasizes community involvement and flexible, diversity-appropriate, practical applications of scientific psychology.

The clinical psychology program follows a practitioner-scholar model of professional education, with coursework reflecting the latest empirical findings in the field. We present students with a broad range of theoretical perspectives and expose them to assessment, intervention, research/evaluation, consultation/education, and management/supervision.

The counseling psychology program emphasizes the local clinical scientist model. The use of the latest and best scientific findings is a mainstay of our professional training. The faculty encourage students to use the scientific method and an empirical approach with each client.

Psychological Service Center

The purpose of the Pacific University Psychological Service Center is to provide training to students who are committed to careers in professional psychology and to deliver high quality services to the community. Services are furnished by students under the supervision of experienced, licensed psychologists. The Center provides psychological services to residents of the greater Portland area. Intellectual and personality assessment, neuropsychological and vocational assessment, individual therapy, marital and family therapy, group therapy, and consultation are offered.