Naropa University

Program Information

Degree Offered

MA Psychology: Contemplative Psychotherapy

Format: Campus

Program Description:

The Master of Arts in Psychology: Contemplative Psychotherapy degree is designed for students who are inspired to work in the clinical setting and who are ready for the challenging personal work that can prepare them to be fully present and available to their clients. Many students recognize in the program the opportunity to join their personal values with their livelihood. Psychology: Contemplative Psychotherapy is a three-year program that may only be done on a full-time basis. This means the sequence of classes must be followed and one travels through the program as a member of one’s class. (See the program requirements for each semester to get an idea of how much time you will spend in each class.)

Many psychologists have identified the ability to truly “be with” one another as the most important gift a psychotherapist has to offer to a client in emotional pain. The ability to be with others comes from being able to be with oneself no matter what state of mind one may be experiencing: vivid emotions, confusing thoughts, quiet peacefulness. Contemplative Psychotherapy may be said to have two parents: the 2,500-year-old wisdom tradition of Buddhism and the clinical traditions of Western psychology, especially the Humanistic school. Like all offspring it has much in common with both of its parents and yet is uniquely itself at the same time. From Buddhism comes the practice of mindfulness/awareness meditation, together with a highly sophisticated understanding of the functioning of the mind in sanity and in confusion. From Western psychology comes the investigation of the stages of human development, a precise language for discussing mental disturbance, and the intimate method of working with others known as psychotherapy. All course work in the program combines intellectual and experiential components.

Accreditation:

Naropa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Eligibility Requirements:

*Applicants must show considerable readiness and strong motivation for working with others.
*Some prior work experience in a clinical setting, either paid or volunteer, is strongly recommended. First-year students who do not have such experience will be encouraged to perform four hours per week of volunteer work in a mental health agency during the fall and spring semesters in preparation for internship.

# of Credits Required:

63

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

810.00 USD

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Other Specialized Institutions

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Small City

Size & Settings: 1,000 - 4,999