Program Overview

Introduction to the Counseling Psychology Doctoral Program

The University of Houston's Counseling Psychology doctoral program generates new knowledge and trains community-engaged change agents. The program provides students with the tools they need to help others navigate the modern world. Students have the opportunity to contribute to unique research opportunities in behavioral health, multiculturalism, and social justice.

About the Program

The Counseling Psychology doctoral program trains psychologists to become health service psychologists and psychological researchers. The program offers a challenging curriculum, a supportive student environment, student-faculty mentorship, excellent and diverse sites for clinical training, and multiple opportunities for research.

Faculty

The following faculty are currently accepting new students:

• Dr. Blake Allan
• Dr. Consuelo Arbona
• Dr. Chakema Carmack
• Dr. Robert H. McPherson
• Dr. Nathan Grant Smith

Option: Health Psychology Emphasis

For those Counseling Psychology doctoral students who wish to add a Health Psychology Emphasis to their doctoral training, there is additional coursework that can be integrated into the program. This 15-hour minor includes three courses (two required and one elective) and two semesters of clinical health psychology practicum.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association.

Program Duration

The program typically takes 5-6 years to complete.

What Will I Learn?

Students develop professional leadership, ethical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal skills through:

• Coursework
• Residency
• Internship
• Practicum
• Candidacy research project
• Comprehensive exam
• Dissertation

Career Opportunities

The program offers the preparation necessary for students to apply for licensure as psychologists in Texas. Graduates are employed in settings such as:

• Hospitals
• Colleges and University Psychology Departments
• University and College Counseling Centers
• Community Agencies
• Clinics
• Private Practice
• K-12 schools

Research

The Counseling Psychology faculty's research ranges from stress and coping in the LGBTQ community and tobacco cessation to minority stress and health disparities.

Financial Aid

All Counseling Psychology doctoral students are encouraged to apply for scholarships through the UH and the College of Education.

Graduate Tuition Fellowship

Graduate Tuition Fellowship (GTF) provides tuition remission for 9 credit hours, during the academic year, to students who enroll in at least 9 credit hours.

Assistantships

Graduate appointments are usually available to students during the first two years of graduate studies.

Location

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States and one of the nation's most diverse cities, providing a unique environment for students to practice what they're learning in the classroom.