(Courtesy of Touro) The challenges of the past year have brought mental health issues to the forefront. From social media to social change to the impact of COVID-19, Americans are increasingly requiring more from mental health professionals.

Touro College and University System is launching a PsyD program that responds directly to these and other changes in mental health care. The new five-year program combines academic, research and clinical experiences to prepare graduates to become licensed clinical psychologists in the State of New York. It is based on the premise that psychologists working in both mental and physical health care settings need a strong foundation of clinical and research skills.

“Students will have a chance to work directly with diverse populations across the life span. Ultimately, our graduates will have a significant influence on the health of their communities,” said Program Director Frank Gardner, PhD, ABPP.

Touro’s PsyD program is unique in its emphasis on health and health care. Students will be trained to address mental health issues in both medical and behavioral health settings. The curriculum includes courses in health care and aging, the health care system, neuropsychological assessment, and clinical health psychology/behavioral medicine in addition to courses in assessment, treatment, consultation, ethics and diversity.

Touro PsyD degree graduates will be prepared to work as general psychologists, but also have the specialty training to work within a larger medical environment and on the front lines of a health care system that is increasingly interdisciplinary and integrated. They will be ready for careers in academic settings, medical centers, community mental health settings and private practices.

The five-year program begins with a series of courses that provide a foundation for later clinical training. Second and third years are a balance of fieldwork and coursework. The fourth year includes both coursework and dissertation research, while the fifth year is spent in a full-time clinical internship. Graduates will be licensed by the State of New York.

Touro’s faculty have professional expertise in diverse areas including sports psychology and integrative community health care. They bring their practical knowledge and experience into their classroom teaching. Faculty members also conduct research in areas that include treatment of anger and violence, technology’s impact on health awareness and health disparities, and how to improve support services for families.

Touro’s PsyD program accepts 15 students each year. For more information visit www.shs.touro.edu.