Psychotherapy Lectures and Communication for Prospective Students

Interviews and Communication

When applying for a doctoral program, it is important to come across with both poise on paper and in person.  Specifically, on an interview, clear communication becomes more complex.  At this point, a student has presented themselves well in their statement of purpose, but the interview requires that student demonstrate communication (body language and verbal message) that supports the impressive student history and character mentioned on paper. Again, never forget that interviews require clear communication; do not make interviewers decipher what you mean.  It is a given that interviewers will listen carefully to your words (what you did or did not say) and watch for subtle body language to see if the output matches what you are trying to convey. 

Lessons from Virginia Satir

In the first video below, Virginia Satir, a famous family therapy theorist, describes the importance of communicating with others and some roadblocks to clear conversations.  I have included this video for two reasons: to illustrate the importance of body language and verbal messages in order for students to prepare for interviews and to educate students on how psychotherapy concepts still apply to practitioners in training.   Basically, we are never to poise or educated to need a refresher on communication, authenticity, self-esteem, and unconditional positive regard.  There are two other videos that I feel will benefit prospective doctoral students.

Why Listen to Psychotherapy Lectures?

 I encourage students to listen to psychotherapy lectures to enlighten themselves on the therapeutic methods.  Also, these lectures will highlight intrapersonal challenges that could hinder you from successfully pursuing a doctoral degree.  For instance, psychotherapy lectures can help students think about how they come across to other people.  This is helpful because challenging circumstances, like applying for a PhD program, have the tendency to squeeze people.  We all have heard the saying that when you are pressed or squeezed people will see the real you.  Well, preparing yourself to address any personal challenges before applying and attending a doctoral program will help you with a smoother transition. 

Best Wishes,

PsyDoc