About

The University of Maine’s Doctoral Training Program in Clinical Psychology promotes scientific knowledge and evidence-based practices that enhance psychological well-being and reduce mental health disparities and suffering. Students are trained in foundational competencies that emphasize the interactive influences and integration of science and professional practice of psychology. Our rigorous training program has been accredited by the American Psychological Association since 1975. It continues to evolve based on cultural humility, our commitment to the scientist-practitioner model, and to making meaningful contributions to the field and society.

Model of Training

The philosophy and model of training for the program is consistent with the scientist-practitioner model espoused at the Boulder Conference in 1949. This model emphasizes the interactive influences of the science and professional practice of psychology as well as their integration. Training follows the generalist tradition in which students receive a firm foundation in broad clinical knowledge and skills and engage in a variety of applied experiences with children, adolescents, and adults. Building on this generalist foundation, students can also complete more specialized training through emphases in clinical child psychology and clinical neuropsychology. The program also adheres to the mentor model, in which faculty recruit students that match their training philosophy and research activities and act as mentors, modeling the integration of science, practice, and continuing education. Students are treated as junior colleagues and encouraged to participate in program governance and evaluation, present and publish research, review manuscripts, and attend professional workshops.