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Palo Alto University

Introduction

Founded in 1975 as the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology, Palo Alto University is dedicated to improving lives through education and research anchored in psychology, clinical training and practice in a diversity of cultures, and service to communities around the world.

About

Palo Alto University (PAU) is a private, nonprofit educational institution, founded in 1975 as the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology (PGSP), an independent, professional school. PGSP was first accredited in 1986 by the regional accrediting body, the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It has been continuously accredited since then. PGSP re-incorporated as Palo Alto University in August 2009. PAU is dedicated to education with an emphasis in the behavioral and social sciences; to promoting future innovators and leaders for the benefit of society; to generating knowledge through research and scholarship of the highest level; and to providing services to the community informed by science and scholarship.

PAU also maintains several international collaborations, supporting local, clinical practicum training in China and Latin America for students who participate in PAU's online M.A. in Counseling program. The University is also in collaborative partnerships with many community organizations, including Stanford School of Medicine, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Palo Alto Medical Center, and other mental health care organizations. The Gronowski Center, a University affiliated organization, delivers low-cost mental health services while also providing valuable, supervised training to PAU graduate students. In addition, PAU sponsors several academic centers devoted to child mental health, evidence-based care for LGBTQ clients, excellence in diversity and community care, and internet-based global healthcare. Looking to the future, PAU is developing programs to assist genocide survivors in Rwanda.

Mission, Values, and Vision

Mission Statement

Engaging Minds and Improving Lives Locally and Globally through Innovative Education.

Vision Statement

Through collaborative leadership we transform in measurable and accountable ways the quality of lives through psychological insights, scientific rigor and compassion for humanity.

Core Values

All existing and envisioned programs should embody the following core values:

  • Diversity and inclusion in all endeavors (see Faculty Statement on Diversity and Inclusion)
  • Excellence and distinction in all aspects of programs and operations
  • Innovation in the pursuit of science, evidence-based practice, and pedagogy
  • Operational transparency
  • Fiscal responsibility
  • Strong, collaborative relationships with local, national, and international partners
  • Commitment to each student’s personal and professional growth
This school offers programs in:
  • English

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Programs
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MA

M.A. Counseling

Campus or Online Full time 27 months September 2017 USA Palo Alto USA Online + 1 more

Palo Alto University’s M.A. Counseling program prepares students to serve their communities as licensed mental health professionals. This master's in counseling degree can expand career options or retool a career in a profession that makes a difference to the community. [+]

M.A. Counseling Areas of Emphasis: - Marriage, Family, and Child - Clinical Mental Health On-Campus · Online Palo Alto University’s M.A. Counseling program prepares students to serve their communities as licensed mental health professionals. This master's in counseling degree can expand career options or retool a career in a profession that makes a difference to the community. The M.A. Counseling program became CACREP accredited in January 2017. California graduates of this program can pursue both the Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) licenses. Graduates living in other states can pursue similar licenses (see your state's licensure board regulations for qualifying degree requirements). With residential hybrid (on-campus) and low-residency distance learning (online) options and evening class scheduling, the program offers flexibility to students who want to pursue graduate studies without needing to relocate. This program offers an Master of Arts in Counseling with two areas of emphasis, both preparing students to pursue licensure: Marriage, Family and Child emphasis (CACREP accredited) Clinical Mental Health emphasis (CACREP accredited) This program focuses on developing and strengthening skills in four core areas: assessment, intervention/counseling, research/critical thinking, and ethics/professional practice. Mission of the M.A. Counseling Program The M.A. Counseling program is a diverse and dynamic community dedicated to the development of highly effective mental health counselors, future leaders and innovators in the counseling profession. In and through its training of burgeoning counselors, the program strives to benefit society and reduce human suffering by promoting mental health, wellness, social justice, education, and vocational... [-]
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