With a focus on extensive real-world training, APU’s Department of Clinical Psychology
prepares culturally competent, faith-informed practitioners. Accredited by the American
Psychological Assocation (APA), the department’s PsyD in Clinical Psychology program
emphasizes hands-on service in addition to rigorous coursework, including more than
three years of supervisied clinical training. In addition, our Community Counseling
Center offers ongoing research, training, and education opportunities for students,
allowing them to actively make a difference by providing services to their local community.
As we prepare our students to enter the field, we analyze the field of psychology
from a Christian worldview—in addition to intentional instruction on caring for clients
from different faith backgrounds. As a result, we graduate practioners distinct in
their ability to provide holistic care to a diverse range of clients.
Faculty Feature: Sam Girguis, PsyD, Embraces Forming Strong Connections With Students
Whether he’s running into students in the halls or colleagues on their lunch break,
Girguis’ warm smile and interest in others make his presence a positive force at Azusa
Pacific University, where he teaches clinical psychology.
Faculty Feature: A Calling With a Definite Purpose: Rachel Castaneda, PhD, Teaches
Students to Love Like Jesus
Many professionals spend their career climbing the corporate ladder. They earn multiple
degrees in order to make an impact in their field of study. They build rigorous programs,
and make connections with fellow academics. Some earn grants and become renowned for
their scholarly contributions.
Rachel Castaneda, PhD, has done all those things and more, yet you wouldn’t know when
meeting her for the first time. Castaneda doesn’t just talk about service, she embeds
it in every one of her actions as a psychology professor at Azusa Pacific University.
Director, PsyD Program, and Assistant Professor and Chair, Department of Clinical
Psychology
The APA-accredited PsyD program at Azusa Pacific University has equipped students
to become psychologists who work in diverse settings for over 20 years. Our program's
special emphases on (1) a systems approach to psychology; (2) integration of faith/spirituality
and clinical practice; and (3) diversity prepare our students to become become licensed
psychologists who engage in psychotherapy, psychological assessment, and clinical
research. In addition, students can choose to complete elective concentrations in
forensic psychology or psychodynamic systems of psychotherapy. We offer several international
opportunities that are life-changing and further equip our students to engage with
clients from diverse backgrounds.
Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated
academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.
The Community Counseling Center (CCC) was established in 1989 as an outreach ministry
of Azusa Pacific University’s Department of the Department of Clinical Psychology.
The CCC functions as a multidisciplinary mental health and training site housing student
therapists from APU’s graduate psychology, marriage and family therapy, and social
work programs.
The CCC is committed to providing state-of-the-art treatment for a full range of problems
and symptoms. Mental health and psychological assessments are offered at competitive
low costs.
Faculty Friday: Theresa Tisdale’s Spiritual Approach to Psychology
Theresa Clement Tisdale, PhD, PsyD, ABPP begins every class session sounding a set
of chimes, allowing students a few minutes of silence in order to breathe deeply and
prepare to be engaged in learning.
Deep change and healing are her mottos, and Tisdale implements what she practices
as a psychoanalyst to cultivate spiritual transformation in every student who walks
through her classroom.
You’ll experience a unique blend of academic rigor, experiential learning, and personal
support from faculty. The inherent confidence that springs from these relationships
results in relevant and meaningful opportunities.
Note: This information is current for the 2024-25 academic year; however, all stated
academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current Academic Catalog for more information.
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APU’s life-changing education develops you into a disciple and scholar, equipping
you to succeed in your field and make a difference in the world.
