Diversity in Psychology

The Department of Psychology at PCOM is committed to preparing highly skilled, compassionate practitioner-scholars at the doctoral and master’s levels with sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, gender diversity and the underserved.

Thus, the Department respects and affirms the equal human worth of every individual and of all distinctive groups of people. The moral and intellectual justification for this mission is rooted in the Department’s commitment to students and faculty of different backgrounds, experiences, and origins, which enhances the learning experience for all.

Diversity is broadly defined to include, but not limited to, respect of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, age, abilities, religion, native tongue and culture. The programs of the Psychology Department at PCOM embrace the integration of diversity through:

• Acknowledging the salience of diversity in our society by addressing the interests and concerns of all students in the Psychology Department.
• Fostering the recruitment and retention of diverse students, staff, and faculty.
• Integrating diversity education, sensitivity and competencies throughout the curriculum, research, and clinical training opportunities.
• Promoting empathy and respect for all individuals and groups.
• Encouraging and educating students in promoting advocacy and social justice through research and practice, and grounded in the Recovery model, that promotes the worth of every person as a contributing member of society, regardless of ability or disability.

The Department of Psychology maintains a strong and ongoing commitment in these areas.

Service to the Community

PCOM maintains five Healthcare Centers (four in Philadelphia and one in Sullivan County, Pa.) which serve the medical needs of our community by providing a variety of quality, easily accessible health care services in one convenient location. In three of these Centers, psychology interns from the Department of Psychology's Center for Brief Therapy interact with medical and allied mental health professionals as a fully participatory member of the total health care team.  Future psychologists are trained to work in healthcare settings as providers of comprehensive psychological services that stress interdisciplinary collaboration.