The Study of Clinical Psychology in Dallas, Texas

Clinical psychology is the scientific study of thought processes and behavior that involves the core applications of psychological assessment and psychotherapy to treat mental or emotional dysfunction. Conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression and bi-polar disorder are managed with the appropriate therapy after careful testing and evaluation. The Doctor of Psychology, or PsyD in Clinical Psychology, concentrates on practical work and examinations, as compared to the PhD (Doctor of philosophy) who focuses on research.

The psychologist helps clients adjust to life changes or loss, adopt healthier coping skills, and encourages the client’s growth in interpersonal skills and achievement of goals. Therapy is available for the individual, couple, family or group, and often takes place in a clinical setting. Treatments include psychotherapy and behavioral therapy; client learns to recognize inaccurate or destructive thoughts, and through a series of steps, develops a healthier response. It is vital that the therapist shows compassion and creates a reassuring environment where the client feels secure in discussing difficult issues. Building a level of trust with the client is fundamental to productive counseling.

The PsyD, Clinical Psychology program at Argosy University, located in Dallas, Texas, offers essential skills through training and education in the application of theory and research, utilizing the latest advances in scientific knowledge. Argosy’s psychology program's mission includes the following objectives: developing skills for effective and culturally sensitive intervention, learning appropriate assessment and diagnostic techniques delivered with the highest professional standards, applying both scientific and clinical psychology foundations to the analysis of each patient case, and maintaining an ethical and professional relationship with each patient while delivering the most effective care.

Once a student earns a Bachelor’s degree, the Argosy PsyD program can be completed in 4 to 6 years. Their curriculum stresses ethics, providing excellent service to clients, and adherence to professional guidelines. The program emphasizes the importance of the student’s self-awareness in his or her cultural background, and how to achieve understanding and sensitivity in administering evaluation and treatment to a diversity of clients.

In order to have a PsyD, Clinical Psychology practice in the Dallas area, licensure is necessary through the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists. Before applying for a license, the following requirements must be met: obtaining a provisional (time-limited) license, passing two examinations, and two years work experience in a supervised setting. Once approved by the Board, the psychologist will be eligible to work in a medical setting, or other areas such as law, education, government, science, and marketing.

Dallas area job prospects for those trained in clinical psychology include positions in hospitals, children’s medical centers, military service corps, and psychiatric outpatient clinics. A strong educational and ethical foundation can be utilized in many aspects of mental health services, as there is always a demand for dedicated professionals.

For the past 30 years, Argosy University has helped prepare students for a successful career in psychology, with the ability to specialize in research, teaching, or consultation. In addition to the academic foundation, Argosy also emphasizes practical training and developing skills for effective practitioner/patient communication.