Hey everyone, I'm sorry my first post is seeking help rather than contributing. I forgot I was a member of this forum actually--it's been a busy couple months since I joined. But I have some questions about pursuing graduate work in depth psychology and I figured some people with experience would know the answers!
I want to pursue a graduate degree in psychology. I feel really called to it. However, I got my undergrad in English Literature, and I don't really have any relevant experience that would make me a real candidate for getting into a state school program. The only reason I would apply to a state program is for financial reasons. Every other draw is towards a private institution that focuses on humanistic psychology, with my real interest being in Jung/Grof and their work.
So the crux is, are some of these private institutions (Pacifica, Naropa, CIIS, Saybrook) worth the huge cost? I'm a little suspect of the lax entry requirements and the online format. However, I really like the idea of some of their offerings that focus on Jungian studies, bioenergetics, etc. More than anything, I'm looking for the most transformative experience. I want to do the deep work myself. But I want to be sure that going 40K into debt is not only going to lead to transformation, but also that I'll be employable once I'm out. It feels gross to bring financial matters into work that is so far beyond that, but that amount of debt is no joke and I want to ensure that it's a wise choice to make.
If I went to a state school, I would have to wait another year and a half (if I even get accepted) to start. I would have between now and December to volunteer with some mental health resource centers and boost my GRE score. And then if I don't get accepted, I'd have to try again in a year's time. I'm 26 and I'm feeling pretty eager to get going with it. If I went to somewhere like Saybrook, I could start this fall, or failing that, in the spring.
And I know that if I go to a state school, I can always attend a Jung institute following my graduation and become a Jungian. This is something I'd like to do either way. Obviously, I want to attend a creative and progressive school like the ones I listed, but financially, it just seems crazy.
If anyone has advice with this, I would very much appreciate it!
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JUNE 1, 2015 WELCOME KRIS:
Awe yes, graduate studies – Bachelors, Masters to PhD level, upward and beyond…It has been 19 years since I obtained all my mid-life professionals degrees and from a front-line service perspective, my education, work blessed my life, existence beyond belief – so, yes I am a dreamer and do encourage my grandchildren to pursue dreams, for they do come true, especially if you feel “called” into a particular specialty [discipline] area.
As I was a visiting Canadian, at-a-distant student, who had to seek, find my professors, and manage all the university paperwork stuff for my reality back then, when there were no programs available to me in Canada. I had to become an at-a-distance student; travel to get educated in USA and across Canada, specific teachers. By grace, I remained determined with strong faith and will to fulfill my calling, my dream jobs happened and I just retired this June. So do be excited, you’re young and have lots of time to navigate and consider all your options.
There are lots of graduates in DPA, I checked out the available USA graduate programs in my time and all I suggest is make sure you are current regarding present and “future” qualifications and matters such as “APA” approved schools [what does you state where you will work require], and are the criteria for becoming a “registered or chartered” post-masters or do you require a PhD to practice as a psychologist in the USA? I
What are the annual on-going criteria for staying “registered” and providing “psychological services to the public and are these standardized across the states?
With my travels and money exchange, back in 1996, my doctorate cost $100,000.00, plus I went on to do a fellowship in a novel, emerging field. I worked hard at not letting others “rain on my parade, piss in my cornflakes nor tarnish or crap on my dream.” Keep you vision and dream clear, alive and warmed in your heart. Graduate + Post-Graduate training does take on a life of its own, is very challenging for you are learning and training each other at the same time [yes, you will receive therapy in the learning], and I do admit now, my Continuing Educational Credits [around 1000 at retirement CEU’s} are most impressive as acquired throughout the years.
Up here in Canada, we now have a Health Professions Act and very soon all mental health care providers will be regulated. With this, mandatory professional “CEU” minimums are set to keep you current in your chosen discipline; a title used and credentials [annual certification process to keep you licence/permits valid.
Wishing you all the best – an exciting adventure indeed, and May I suggest your new mantra become, “Carry on Bravely.” Peace + Love Linda