Doctor of Psychology
PsyD
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Doctor of Psychology Program Overview
Purdue University Northwest is excited to launch the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) program.
You can join an innovative new program that will train scholars and practitioners to use psychological science to provide clinical assessment, diagnosis and intervention services.
- You will benefit from a cutting-edge academic curriculum and clinical training sequence designed to blend contemporary issues and innovation with foundational knowledge and evidence-based best practices in the field.
- This unique program includes interdisciplinary training opportunities with PNW’s Counseling, Couple and Family Therapy, and Social Work as well as a variety of clinical practicum sites throughout Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago area.
- PNW’s PsyD offers a manageable cost compared to similar programs in the Midwest, with opportunities to apply for funded teaching and research assistantships and/or tuition waivers.*
* Priority will be given to students committed to remaining and working in Northwest Indiana upon program completion
Doctor of Psychology Degree Program Curriculum
The state-of-the art curriculum combines contemporary mental health issues and technological advances with well-established theoretical foundations and clinical best practices.
Program Length
Five years full-time (4 years at PNW + 1 year of predoctoral clinical internship)
Course of Study Overview (120 credits)
- Core Courses: 53 credits (44%)
- Specialized Elective Courses: 18 credits (15%)
- Clinical/Experiential Courses: 36 credits (30%)
- Professional Development Courses: 13 credits (11%)
Doctor of Psychology Highlights
You will study with experienced faculty instructors and mentors with diverse areas of clinical and research expertise, including trauma, forensic psychology, pediatric psychology, addiction, anxiety and multicultural competence.
Doctor of Psychology Outcomes
Graduates will be prepared to work in a wide variety of settings to positively impact their clients and communities. PNW’s location offers access to numerous clinical practicum sites throughout Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago area.
Doctor of Psychology Accreditation
PNW is initiating the program accreditation process with the American Psychological Association (APA). This involves applying for “accredited, on contingency” status en route to full accreditation by the time the first PsyD cohort prepares to graduate.
Doctor of Psychology Opportunities for Support
You will have opportunities to apply for funded teaching and research assistantships and/or tuition waivers, with priority given to students committed to remaining and working in Northwest Indiana upon program completion.
Meet the Faculty
Amanda D. Zelechoski, J.D., Ph.D., ABPP
Professor of Psychology | Program Coordinator, Graduate Psychology
Zelechoski (zell-uh-husky) is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist and attorney, specializing in trauma. In addition to serving as Professor of Psychology and Director of Clinical Training at PNW, she also co-founded the digital resource hub and nonprofit organization, Pandemic Parenting.
Interim Chair, Curriculum & Student Success Psychology | Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Gisele Casanova is an associate professor of psychology and the psychology internship coordinator on PNW’s Hammond campus. She instructs undergraduate courses on topics including professional and ethical issues in psychology, child abuse and neglect and psychological disorders. Casanova enjoys guiding students as they develop their critical thinking skills and in understanding how to apply psychological concepts to real life situations.
Associate Professor of Psychology
In addition to my role as assistant professor of psychology, I also actively engage in scholarly activities, including conducting research with a focus on assessment and outcomes in pediatric rehab.
Kimberly L. Brunt, Ph.D., H.S.P.P.
Clinical Associate Professor of Psychology
Dr. Brunt is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychology and Psychology Internship Coordinator in Westville. Dr. Brunt is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who sees patients at AOBHC in Munster, IN
Associate Professor of Psychology
My current work focuses on treating justice-involved youth with histories of trauma exposure, conducting research on the implementation of trauma-informed practices in the juvenile justice system, and providing trauma-informed training and consultation to juvenile justice professionals.
Assistant Professor of Psychology
Abigail Dempsey, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based treatment of addictions. Her research focuses on the intersection of technology and behavioral/mental health.
Earn a Doctor of Psychology at PNW
Purdue University Northwest’s Doctor of Psychology program will prepare you to work in a wide variety of settings to positively impact your clients and communities.
Our graduate studies staff is ready to help you take the next step! Contact us at (219) 989-2257 or grad@pnw.edu to see how PNW can meet your needs.
