Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program

Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to study psychology.

I'm half British and half Peruvian. I grew up most of my life in Ecuador, studying and later working at an international school where geographic fluidity and cultural flexibility were intrinsic to the environment. I came to the United States to study visual arts at Brown University and later returned to Ecuador to paint and teach art.

Creativity is an indispensable vital force in my life, but after volunteering at several hospitals and agencies that served low-income individuals with life-threatening illnesses, I felt compelled to enter into the field of psychology. And here I am, years later, doing what feels like a natural fit for me.

What specifically appealed to you about CIIS?

As a British/Peruvian, I've often gravitated toward environments that welcome multiple perspectives and value cross-cultural exchange. CIIS's integrative discourse resonated with me and I was drawn to the Institute's balance of academic rigor and experiential/spiritual exploration.

What has been the most exciting aspect of studying at CIIS?

What strikes me most about CIIS is the quality and caliber of the people who are drawn to the Institute. I've come to know people from all walks of life who often have released conventional paths and expectations in order to follow what they value most deeply. Basically, I've met many courageous individuals whose passion, dedication, and integrity have contributed to transforming my life.

Describe how and why a specific course, book, or project has had a significant impact on you and your life.

During my second and third year in the Psychology Doctoral program, I took a series of courses called Professional Seminar (ProSem) where the students made case presentations of the clients we were working with at our practicum sites. These small classes of no more than eight or nine people facilitated the acquisition of professional skills and language while providing a space for discussing the human/relational component of our field.

What is unique or special about the CIIS community? How do you find community here?

The CIIS community, as I've experienced it, is not a homogeneous whole, but rather a dynamic combination of diverse subgroups that gravitate toward varying areas of interest. How do you find community? Just open your e-mail. You'll be amazed.

What are your plans after you graduate from CIIS?

Although my future goals are yet unclear (I don't even know what continent I'll be living in!), I know I would like to divide my career between a private practice and a hospital/agency providing a collaborative professional environment. I would also like a portion of my caseload to include disadvantaged populations and immigrant/geographically displaced individuals, such as the Hispanic clients I served at the Center for Special Problems in San Francisco. On a more personal note, I would like to continue to nourish my creativity through painting, while expanding my growth through spiritual awakening and close contact with those I love.

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program