Based on Existential and Phenomenological Traditions of Psychology

Solid clinical training and a rich, rigorous foundation for successful practice as a psychotherapist

Based on Existential and Phenomenological Traditions of Psychology

Training in what matters most

Respected throughout the Puget Sound region, the MAP program brings together research and reflection from the fields of clinical psychology, philosophy and the humanities. Instruction draws extensively on the study of qualitative research, first person narratives, and phenomenological analysis in seeking to understand the lived experiences of others.

Students learn to work with common clinical diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. More than this, they learn how to be fully present with others through experiences of suffering and distress, how to facilitate a process of meaning-making and healing, and how to work skillfully across social and cultural barriers and differences.

The program’s extensive internship placement prepares students for success as psychotherapists in community settings, private practice, hospitals, and clinics. By drawing upon the insights of a number of disciplines and by laying a solid foundation for a therapeutic practice, the program prepares students to enter the counseling profession whether as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Washington or through pursuing doctoral or other graduate studies.

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About the program

For Prospective Students

This program, and the people in it, have helped me to focus my life, fed my passion for lifelong learning, and calmed my soul--while igniting it--enough to do the work that I do.

Alumnus doing hospice and bereavement work

Research & Resources

Research & Resources

Scholarship and Research

The MAP program enjoys a strong international reputation as a center for qualitative psychological and phenomenological research. Much of this work arises from intensive mentoring and collaborative relationships formed between program faculty, students, and alumni.

In addition to clinical training, the program strives to make available coursework, resources, and mentorship for students interested in phenomenological and qualitative scholarship.

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Resources for Current Students

[My experiences in the MAP program] have enabled me to do a job that I love, and to engage in a continual process of both self-reflection and trying to better understand my clients and others in my life.

Alumnus, 2009

Building Community

Building Community

Welcome to our community

MAP is more than a graduate program. It is a community of people that stay connected decades beyond graduation, who support and help each other grow personally and professionally beyond the academic years.

Your community will include faculty, alumni, our advisory board and other professional colleagues around the region.

Through mentorships, professional development events and career advising, you'll find your place in this community from the beginning of your academic journey and throughout your career.

 

Alumni Resources

Alumni Projects