The Adult Division within the UM Clinical Program has a strong foundation grounded in the clinical science model, which seeks to integrate the science and practice of psychology. We are passionate about expanding the scientific basis for understanding affective and cognitive experiences, as they range from healthy populations to those struggling with mental illness. Additional research efforts are focused on using a clinical science approach to develop and disseminate the most effective treatments for a range of difficulties. Across both the treatment and etiological domains, research and training in the Adult Division is also focused on advancing methodological and quantitative methods.
The UM Clinical Program is a founding member of the Academy of Psychological Clinical Science (https://www.acadpsychclinicalscience.org). In addition, the clinical program is currently accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Psychological Clinical Science Accreditation System (PCSAS) and abides by the standards and principles for both forms of accreditation. The program has been APA-accredited since 1966 and PCSAS-accredited since 2024.
In addition to a rigorous curriculum that introduces students to foundational aspects of psychology, Adult Clinical track students take additional courses in psychopathology, empirically supported treatments for adult populations, and advanced quantitative courses. There is sufficient flexibility to allow students to tailor their coursework based on their specific research interests.
Starting in their second year, students participate in clinical practicum experiences. In addition to training through our in house Psychological Services Center, which is a community-based clinic for individuals with a range of mood and anxiety disorders, students can also select clinical science training experiences from the following practica:
- Oliver Pyatt Center - Practicum students work with clients with eating disorders in both residential and outpatient settings. Therapy modalities include individual and group work along with meal support.
- Veterans Affairs – Practicum students develop therapy, assessment, and/or consultation expertise with Veterans as members of interdisciplinary teams. Popular Adult Division rotations include Acute Inpatient Psychiatry, Behavioral Health Clinic, and Psychosocial Rehabilitation.
- UM Counseling Center - Practicum students diagnose and treat UM undergraduates in individual and group modalities. This site also provides opportunities to engage in outreach programming to the University of Miami community.
- Wellpath Recovery Solutions - Practicum students work with clients with a range of serious mental disorders, through both group and individual therapy at a civil and forensic state hospital.
- UM Neuropsychology Clinic - This rotation is geared toward administrating comprehensive assessment batteries that assess cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral well-being.
- Galen Hope – Treatment center for a wide range of diagnoses and conditions including Eating disorders, ADHD, learning disorders, anxiety and mood disorders and a range of personality disorders.
