Psychology training earns accreditation
December 2004
The American Psychological Association (APA) recognized the McLean Psychology Internship for its excellence by awarding it a seven-year accreditation.
The accreditation was based on a detailed review of a comprehensive self-study report and a thorough two-day site visit by an APA accreditation team. Numerous McLean faculty, staff and trainees contributed to this successful effort.
"This is the first time the internship has been included in the new seven-year accreditation cycle. This represents a significant recognition of the outstanding efforts of our faculty and trainees and will allow us to continue to recruit the top clinical psychology doctoral students," said Philip Levendusky, PhD, director of the Psychology Department.
"This is the longest accreditation the APA gives, which speaks to their high opinion of our program," added Bruce Cohen, MD, PhD, president and psychiatrist in chief for McLean.
A report issued by the APA last month noted a number of areas in which the program excels particularly its commitment to hands-on faculty supervision.
"The interns report that their supervision is the best part of this excellent program," wrote Susan Zlotlow, PhD, director of the APA's Office of Program Consultation and Accreditation.
"Every year, interns highlight that supervision is one of the best parts of the training year, and how impressed they are with the dedication to training and mentoring exemplified by their supervisors," said Edmund Neuhaus, PhD, associate director of Psychology Training.
Zlotlow also commended the program for its ability to provide interns with as wide a conceptual framework as possible and for developing an excellent system for providing sequential and graded experiences for interns.
"Interns from previous years report that the training they received is relevant and useful in their preparation as professional psychologists."
In closing remarks of her report, Zlotlow acknowledged the hospital for its dedication to psychology training. "The Committee on Accreditation expresses its appreciation for your personal commitment and the corresponding support of your administration to develop and maintain the best possible quality of graduate education and training in psychology," said Zlotlow.