2 answers
Annie
Student
Minneapolis, Minnesota
1
Question
Updated
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What can a senior psychology major expect when transitioning to a graduate program in Counseling psychology? #Spring25
Moving states, favorite classes have been cognitive psych and developmental psych, interested in art. #Spring25
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2 answers
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1207
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Annie,
Moving to a new state and making a transition from undergraduate to graduate school in counseling psychology can be both exciting and a bit stressful. However, given your history and passions, you're off to a great start!
Grad school goes far deeper into psychological theories, counseling methods, and ethical practice than undergraduate, so that's one significant change to look out for. You'll probably notice that cognitive and developmental psychology are frequently discussed, particularly when you understand how various developmental stages affect mental health and how cognitive patterns affect therapy.
Also, expect greater amounts of hands-on learning. Early practicum or clinical hours are included in many programs, allowing you to begin getting practical experience working with clients under supervision. Although it's a significant shift from merely learning things in class, many students develop the most there as well. Given your passion in art, look for courses or programs that incorporate expressive therapies, such as art therapy; these could be a fantastic opportunity to combine your artistic side with your professional objectives.
Readings, articles, and case studies will require more time and consideration, and the task will be far more independent. Additionally, you will be surrounded by individuals who share your enthusiasm for mental health, which may be quite inspiring.
All things taken into account, it's a rewarding but challenging move. Stay organized, focus on your hobbies, and don't be scared to seek help when you need it. You're capable!
Best wishes!
Moving to a new state and making a transition from undergraduate to graduate school in counseling psychology can be both exciting and a bit stressful. However, given your history and passions, you're off to a great start!
Grad school goes far deeper into psychological theories, counseling methods, and ethical practice than undergraduate, so that's one significant change to look out for. You'll probably notice that cognitive and developmental psychology are frequently discussed, particularly when you understand how various developmental stages affect mental health and how cognitive patterns affect therapy.
Also, expect greater amounts of hands-on learning. Early practicum or clinical hours are included in many programs, allowing you to begin getting practical experience working with clients under supervision. Although it's a significant shift from merely learning things in class, many students develop the most there as well. Given your passion in art, look for courses or programs that incorporate expressive therapies, such as art therapy; these could be a fantastic opportunity to combine your artistic side with your professional objectives.
Readings, articles, and case studies will require more time and consideration, and the task will be far more independent. Additionally, you will be surrounded by individuals who share your enthusiasm for mental health, which may be quite inspiring.
All things taken into account, it's a rewarding but challenging move. Stay organized, focus on your hobbies, and don't be scared to seek help when you need it. You're capable!
Best wishes!
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Annie, I am wondering if you looked at a graduate program that offers a dual degree in counseling with art therapy? Or another expressive arts modality? If not, you can always take additional trainings post-grad. Trust me when I say the training is ongoing! I absolutely encourage you to work to include your interests in any papers and research; it will make the work more interesting and may even point you in a direction post-grad. Grad school can be a truly magical experience; it may also stir up a lot of emotions for you as you do your own deep dive into your personal experience and family dynamic. If you have never been in therapy, start now! Some schools require this; either way it is incredibly useful to know the client/patient perspective. Expect to practice introductory counseling skills, learn about ethical considerations, learn about how to work with people from different backgrounds- cultural considerations. You will learn individual and group therapy, different therapeutic techniques and modalities, history and theory, diagnostics and research. Internship hours vary; my school expected two- one six month, one twelve month. I ended up working at five different sites, dividing my hours among a public school, homeless shelter, retirement home, grief/loss camp, and cancer recovery nonprofit. My program also required a human subject's research project- either qualitative or quantitative in design. You will learn APA and learn it well! There will be challenges ahead of you in some of these areas, but you will not be alone. Hopefully the good will outweigh the bad. Expect to read and write a lot while also doing your own introspective work. This degree is unlike others in that you will be working on yourself as well; I found my own personal growth to be astounding! If you are working, find a job that is flexible to your school schedule. When you intern you will have less free time available as you may be spending 2-3 full days at a site. Take things one step at a time. Make sure you like your internship site(s) and do not hesitate to leave a subpar one for something better suited to your goals. Get the best supervision possible; this will really mold how you practice. Enjoy being a student and learning everything you can! Now go and make some magic :)