The Program emphasizes scientifically-minded psychologists/practice. The Program believes that a scientific approach to psychological practice is a critical core competency for all psychologists and serves to distinguish psychologists from other health-care professionals. The Program aims to produce competent, scientifically-minded graduates who demonstrate the profession-wide competencies commensurate with qualified clinicians working in health services settings. It provides an integrated skills training and educational approach based on the scientist-practitioner model resulting in the development of competent, proficient, skilled psychologists serving the needs of our veterans and military patients. Interns are expected to achieve competencies in professionalism, assessment/evaluation /conceptualization skills, communication/interpersonal skills, intervention skills, scientific thinking and research skills, education, teaching and supervision skills, diversity and consultation/interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills. Emphasis is placed on learning the most current techniques and philosophies that are backed by empirical research and recognized as current professional standards.
Intern applicants select an area of training focus among Health Psychology (3 positions), Geropsychology (2 positions), Neuropsychology (1 position), Psychiatry-General (2 positions), Psychiatry- Recovery and Rehabilitation (1 position), or Forensic-VJO (1 position) emphases, and they are interviewed and matched accordingly. The major focus of the internship is on developing clinical skills associated with Health Service Psychology. All training rotations provide ample opportunities for direct clinical experience within emphasis areas. Intern training activities also include Seminar Series, Case Conferences, Intern Research Colloquia, Diversity and Multicultural activities, Group Supervision, and supervision provision. Interns are required to complete a minimum of 6 comprehensive psychodiagnostic assessment batteries and carry a caseload of 2 to 3 General Psychotherapy Clinic referrals (this is in addition to rotational activities) per week during the training year. Intern activities related to professional development are also supported by leadership and authorized absences are approved on a limited basis for attendance to VA-related conferences or interviews.
*COVID-19: Given the rapidly evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of our committment to the well-being of both Veterans and trainees, training plans are subject to change according to guidance from local leadership. For example, at this time, many trainees are engaging in the provision of telehealth services from home. Additionally, for any face to face activities, trainees and staff are provided with appropriate PPE and instruction in safety procedures, including physical distancing; COVID-19 PPE available includes gloves, masks, and face shields. Please email us if you have any additional questions.