Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology program at the University of Denver aims to educate counseling psychologists with a solid foundation in science, practice, and social justice and equity from an intersectional framework. This program is intended for those preparing to become counseling psychologists.

Program Overview

The Counseling Psychology program lies close to the middle of the continuum from a very heavy emphasis on science to a very heavy emphasis on practice. Although the course of study provides students with some flexibility to emphasize either the practice or scientific side of the continuum, all students are expected to have a solid foundation in science and practice and approach each aspect of their training from a multiculturally informed position.

Program Goals and Objectives

The goal of the program is to develop professionals who are insightful and self-reflective, passionate about access and equity in mental health care. The program emphasizes multicultural counseling and social justice, health psychology, vocational psychology, psychotherapy processes and outcomes, psychological assessment, group dynamics, and treatment of addictions.

Areas of Focus

The program offers areas of focus, where students can further their skills and become better equipped to provide solutions for societal and interpersonal challenges facing clients. One such area is the Emphasis in Health Psychology, which includes at least two health-related didactic courses and two supervised clinical practica. Courses may include health psychology, health disparities, integrated health, neurophysiological assessment, and infectious disease in addictive behavior.

Practicum and Research Opportunities

Practicum settings are arranged to further intensify training in particular specialty areas, such as college counseling, VA, in-patient, integrative care, correctional settings, and community mental health. Students are also required to participate in and contribute to a pre-dissertation research project that leads to a presentation and/or a submission for publication. Faculty research areas include:

• Multicultural counseling
  • LGBTQ+ health
  • Psychotherapy research
  • Romantic relationships
  • Health psychology and health disparities
  • Disordered eating
  • Media psychology
  • Supervision and training
  • Vocational psychology and career development
  • Cancer survivorship

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the PhD program, and with the additional post-doctoral required hours, graduates will be able to apply for licensure as a psychologist in Colorado and various other states. Please note that it is essential to check with the state's licensing board to ensure the program meets their licensing requirements.

Accreditation

The doctoral program is accredited by the American Psychological Association, and the master's program is accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council. The program is well known for providing access to high-quality practica and national internships for students.