Clinical Psychology

Program Aims

The University of Rochester Clinical Psychology Program subscribes to a Clinical Scientist model, which emphasizes the integration of science and practice to facilitate human development and functioning. Our program is designed to develop knowledge, skills, and competencies that allow our graduates to contribute to and advance the evidence base of the field and competently apply evidence-based assessments and interventions to the diverse individuals they serve. We strive to develop clinical scientists who can function in a wide range of scientific and practice settings including research, academic, medical, and community settings. We also emphasize the importance of disseminating knowledge through professional outlets as well as through teaching and other scholarly roles. In sum, we expect our graduates to have productive careers in which theoretical knowledge, sound empirical science, and evidence-based practices are well integrated. 

Consistent with this training model and the accreditation guidelines of the American Psychological Association (www.apa.org/ed/accreditation/), the Clinical Psychology Program organizes its training around the following aims:

A.  To prepare professionals capable of conducting and evaluating clinically relevant research.

  1. Developing mastery of modern approaches to research design and data analysis
  2. Building a knowledge base and skillset to critically evaluate the scientific literature, and to formulate, conduct, analyze, interpret, and disseminate results of clinical psychology research
  3. Acquiring knowledge of and acting in accordance with the ethical and legal standards of research

B.  To prepare graduates to have the requisite knowledge and skills for the scientifically informed professional practice of clinical psychology.

  1. Developing sound knowledge of the history and methods of psychology and theories relevant to the understanding of behavior and the practice of clinical psychology
  2. Learning about and acting in accordance with the ethical and legal standards of professional practice
  3. Cultivating skills in scientifically based assessment to evaluate cognitive, developmental, psychopathological, and personality functioning
  4. Acquiring knowledge of and skills in scientifically based approaches to psychological treatment
  5. Develop the capacity to integrate current research and theory to evaluate and select evidence-based measurement and intervention approaches
  6. Gaining competencies in supervision and consultation

C. To prepare graduates with the foundational knowledge and skills to function as competent professionals and display the values and attitudes of psychology in their chosen career path.

  1. Broadening foundational knowledge of affective, biological, cognitive, developmental and social bases of behavior and the ability to integrate knowledge in these areas to advance knowledge of clinical phenomena
  2. Understanding research and theory relevant to cultural and individual diversity as well as developing sensitivity to these issues as they apply to research and professional practice of psychology
  3. Behaving in ways that reflect the values and attitudes of psychology and engage in active self-reflection
  4. Acquiring the skills to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and contexts
  5. Demonstrating knowledge and respect for the roles and perspectives of other professions