Training Philosophy

Doctoral Internship Training Program

The BGSU Counseling Center’s APA-accredited doctoral internship prepares trainees to be strong generalists in the practice of health psychology. Training is based within the agency, with opportunities to gain experience in key counseling center functions, including individual and group counseling/psychotherapy, consultation, supervision and training and crisis intervention. There may also be opportunities for specialized experience with certain clinical topics depending on counseling center, campus and community needs, as well as intern availability and interest.

Our aim is to prepare doctoral interns in clinical or counseling psychology to become entry-level psychologists through participation in a year-long counseling center internship program.

Consistent with the vision of the University, we follow a practitioner-scholar model. We believe professionals in training learn best by practicing their skills in an environment that is supportive and challenging. All staff members are expected to provide services grounded in scientific and ethical principles. Interns are viewed as colleagues and actively participate in staff professional development, as well as structured and sequenced training seminars.

Core values in training

Welcoming Environment

We create a welcoming and supportive environment that reflects our mission as a public university for the public good. Interns are prepared to provide high-quality services to all students, guided by integrity and strong values.

Collaboration

We work collaboratively with each other and with community partners locally, across Ohio and beyond. Professional staff and trainees cooperate to fulfill the mission and functions of the center. Interns and the training committee coordinate a learning experience that balances individual interests with opportunities that encourage growth. Collaborative programming with other campus units is encouraged.

Intellectual and personal growth

We promote growth through structured learning experiences and informal professional dialogue. Through supervision, new challenges and ongoing development, interns and staff continue to grow intellectually, ethically and personally. We strive to be “good citizens” of the profession by upholding ethical guidelines, applicable laws, current research and professional standards.

Creativity and innovation

We foster creativity and innovation in therapy, research and professional activities. Interns are encouraged to contribute ideas, explore new approaches and provide feedback. We view the internship as a mutually growth-enhancing experience for both interns and staff.

Pursuit of excellence

We strive for excellence in all that we do. Our goal is for interns to complete the year with:

• Professional and ethical excellence
• An increased appreciation for human differences and multicultural competency
• The ability to function independently as a psychologist