Program Overview
Saybrook’s Ph.D. in Psychology program explores psychological theories through a compassionate, culturally aware lens. With a focus on ethical awareness, critical thinking, and applied research, this program equips you to address societal challenges and drive meaningful change.
Note: This is not a clinical psychology program and does not prepare students for licensure; those seeking licensure should explore the Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology.
What You’ll Gain from the Ph.D. in Psychology Program:
- A Holistic Understanding
- Explore humanistic, existential, and transpersonal perspectives for a comprehensive view of psychology.
- Advanced Research Skills
- Develop expertise in conducting rigorous research to contribute original insights to the field.
- Customized Education
- Tailor your studies with electives and specializations that match your career aspirations.
- Career Preparation
- Gain the knowledge and skills needed for success in academia, research, consulting, and leadership roles.
Specializations
Choose from several specializations to tailor your Ph.D. studies:
- Creativity, Innovation, and Leadership Specialization
This specialization is ideal for those seeking to conduct in-depth research on creativity or innovation while preparing for leadership roles that shape the future of the field and enhance individual well-being. - Consciousness, Spirituality, and Integrative Health Specialization
This specialization helps you foster personal and collective growth through comprehensive studies in transpersonal psychology and related practices. - Existential and Humanistic Psychology Specialization
This specialization integrates psychology with philosophy, creativity, spirituality, and ethics to examine human existence through self-discovery, relationships, and connection to the world. - Psychophysiology Specialization
This specialization focuses on the biological foundations of human behavior and the psychological techniques that can optimize it. You’ll gain the skills to teach others how to modify behavior using methods such as relaxation training, biofeedback, and hypnosis.
These specializations allow you to align your academic path with your professional goals, creating a solid foundation for impactful careers and advanced roles in psychology.
Connect with Us
Saybrook Learning Model
Online learning fueled by community and connection defines the Saybrook experience. As pioneers of the virtual classroom, we understand there is no substitute for the joy, belonging, and exploration that occurs when we collaborate as a community. The University Learning Experiences were designed to foster this collaboration and connection regularly.
- Residential Learning Experiences (RLE)
At these in-person intensives, clinical program students put theory into practice, hone clinical skills, gain professional guidance from experienced faculty, and acquire the residential hours required for clinical licensure. - Virtual Learning Experience (VLE)
Explore, collaborate, and deepen your engagement with your learning community. These online, synchronous events foster rich interactions beyond the classroom with your classmates and faculty. - Community Learning Experience (CLE)
Form meaningful connections, explore new ideas and perspectives, and immerse yourself in a transformative experience during this in-person, five-day event with the entire Saybrook University community.
Psychology Faculty
Saybrook’s Psychology faculty are practitioner-scholars dedicated to advancing their field through continued practice and comprehensive instruction. Meet some of our faculty members below:
Drake Spaeth, Psy.D.
- Director, Existential-Humanistic Psychology Specialization
- Interim Coordinator, Jungian Studies Specialization
- Member, American Psychological Association Division 32, Society for Humanistic Psychology
- Former president (2019-2020), American Psychological Association Division 32