Attaining My Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology

I was in a remote village in the Peruvian Andes conducting art therapy with prisoners when I realized this was the most meaningful experience of my life, and it should not be. The study and practice of psychology are the place where my humanitarian and intellectual interests align. I am applying to the clinical psychology program to fulfil the training I need to continue to make meaningful contributions to society and also contribute to the field of psychology through research. A family illness that is now happily behind me delayed me from doing so sooner.

I hold a Master’s in Clinical Art Therapy from NYU. It was through that program, which provided me with the opportunity to determine what I needed to further learn, that my intention of returning to attain a PhD in Clinical Psychology was crystallized.

As an undergraduate at Hunter College, I majored in psychology and religion, and minored in philosophy. Human psyche and behavior had always been my primary interest, and this focus quickly grew into a passion for psychology as I learned the complexities of human development in courses such as Personality Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, and Social Psychology. Likewise, I received a foundation for research in the courses Research Methods and Statistics, Psychological Testing, and Statistics for Psychology. Studying religion and philosophy complemented these courses with differing world-views and cultural awareness.

During this time, I worked with special-needs children through the YMCA and with children diagnosed with autism through Special Sprouts. In doing so I found that artistic expression could facilitate therapy for people who did not have the vocabulary or organization of thought to communicate their feelings, or for whom...

... middle of paper ...

..., and interdisciplinary thinking because it aligns with my own vision as demonstrated by my past work both clinical and academic.

My talents in working with diverse populations and settings drive my desire to attain a PhD. Ultimately my goal is to work in this field which I find rewarding and fascinating; specifically, to work with adults with psychopathology. I would also like to contribute to the broader field with research and teaching. I feel I have the makings of an empathic and dynamic psychotherapist with the capacity to work in alternative modalities. Based on your department's statement, I believe I will be an excellent fit based on my diverse educational background and experiences. In conclusion, I have taken the long path toward my goals, but it has made me absolutely certain of where I want to go, and I hope to be able to get there with your department.