Clinical Psychology Learning Models
Clinical Psychology offers online hybrid masters and doctoral programs and a Seattle-based residential master's program, the LIOS MA Psychology, Counseling.
Hybrid Online Learning Model
Our hybrid degree programs combine online learning with periodic in-person conferences, intensives, and classes where you can earn your MA/MFT-PCC or PhD in Clinical Psychology. This low-residency model offers the flexibility to tailor coursework to your individual interests and to integrate your studies with your busy professional schedule and requires participation in two five day residential conferences per year.
Faculty mentoring is a distinguishing feature of our approach. When you begin your studies, you will be assigned a Faculty Mentor, who supports you in the achievement of your goals, provides a connection to your chosen discipline, connects you with other faculty, and works with your academic advisor and Academic Services Coordinator to ensure your academic needs and expectations are fulfilled.
LIOS Residential Learning Model
LIOS residential programs in Seattle are rooted in self-development through integrated, rigorous course work pursued in seven (four to five day) residential conferences each year. This approach integrates experiential learning within a cohesive, constructed learning community. Both of the LIOS masters programs share this approach with a common, first-year curriculum.
Experiential Learning involves the student as both scientist and participant in the systematic exploration of self, and self in relation to others.
The Learning Community, which develops in the context of seven residential conferences per term, is enriched by the the diversity of its own socio-economic, racial, cultural, and gender composition and fostered with its exceptionally small faculty-to-student ratio of 1:8.
These conferences are scheduled for four to five consecutive days at the Seattle campus. While residency at a nearby hotel is mandatory only for the first and fifth conference, we encourage even local students to stay at the hotel for all conferences to help form a cohesive group. This approach fosters community growth and development, helps build trust, and encourages learning without outside distractions.
Education within each conference may consist of any or all of the following forms:
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individual
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one-on-one
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group work
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focused simulations
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lecture
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videotaped interactive presentations
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consistent feedback from faculty and peers
Theoretical Basis for the LIOS Model
The LIOS model rests on the foundations of Applied Behavioral Science (ABS) and Systems Theory.
ABS refers to the collection of theories and skills that places the self of the practitioner in the center of observed events. It can be defined as "the art and science of getting things done through and with others."
Systems Theory recognizes a system as an entity that maintains its existence, and functions as a whole, through the interaction of its parts. It posits that a particular system can be understood only by analyzing or engaging in the system in its entirety. In this program, you will learn the skills needed to analyze and improve a system and its processes whether the system is an individual client, group, or organization.
