Training Model

The Pine Rest Doctoral Psychology Internship follows a Practitioner–Scholar Model, emphasizing the thoughtful integration of clinical practice and scientific inquiry.

This integration is fostered through professional development seminars, case conferences, supervision, and mentoring, all designed to promote critical thinking, reflective practice, and professional growth. Interns are encouraged to explore how their personal experiences and beliefs influence clinical decision-making through readings, guest lectures, and guided discussions.

Program Goals

Our primary goal is to support interns in making the successful transition from graduate student to independent practitioner. We emphasize evidence-based practice grounded in awareness of diversity, individual differences, and clinician self-reflection.

As part of our commitment to diversity and holistic care, interns receive training in assessing clients’ experiences of spirituality and understanding how those experiences may shape presenting concerns, relationships, and culturally sensitive treatment planning.

Program Expectations

We expect interns’ work to be informed by both scientific advances and an evolving understanding of self. Interns are encouraged to apply academic knowledge and personal insight to problem-solving across a variety of clinical settings.

Throughout our continuum of care, interns engage with individuals and families representing diverse backgrounds, presenting problems, and belief systems. They are challenged to deepen their understanding of how their personal histories and worldviews influence rapport-building, intervention choices, and treatment outcomes.

We believe that excellent clinical work arises from self-aware clinicians who effectively use their personal insight and values to support meaningful change in their patients’ lives.

Program Philosophy

Our training philosophy emphasizes creating an environment that both nurtures and challenges interns as developing professionals and as people. Collaboration among interns and training faculty is central to this process, and interns are viewed as junior colleagues and valued members of the team.

In sum, Pine Rest is committed to equipping interns to integrate science, clinical practice, and faith-informed values—continually evaluating their effectiveness and appropriateness in serving the individuals and communities entrusted to their care.