Counseling Psychology
Mission and Philosophy of Training Statement

Mission

Our mission is to make a significant contribution to the fields of psychology and counseling through research, practice, service, and/or teaching, grounded in social justice and diversity paradigms tied to developmental, systems, holistic, and strength-based theories and strategies.

Philosophy of Training

We train students to become highly competent scientist-professionals in counseling, counseling psychology and/or social psychology to conceptualize and assist persons in the context of their relationships, educational and organizational settings, communities, environments, and the larger world. Students are taught to address and advocate for the psychological, social, spiritual, vocational, educational and physical well-being of individuals, families, groups, and organizations.

Our training philosophy is based on the principles and strategies reflected in our respective professional accrediting bodies (e.g., American Psychological Association; Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs; Council on Rehabilitation Education). We have a particular focus on educational equity, equality for all groups, health and wellness, peace and human security, environmental preservation and enhancement, and sustainability. These principles and strategies are connected, in part, to the concepts reflected in UNESCO's Education for Sustainability Guidelines* and positive psychology.

*
http://portal.unesco.org/education/en/ev.php-URL_ID=38232&URL_DO=DO_TOPIC&URL_SECTION=201.html