Ground-breaking psychology training program coming to Halifax

Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) is taking a groundbreaking step to address the mental health needs of young people in Nova Scotia with the launch of a new doctoral psychology program and training clinic. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as statistics show that 1.25 million youth in Canada require mental health support annually, yet more than half of them do not receive the necessary help.

The program, set to begin in September 2025, will offer a four-year doctor of psychology degree and residency that focuses on providing specialized training to future psychologists. With a strong emphasis on applied knowledge and practical training, the program aims to better equip students to meet the mental health needs of the community, particularly children and youth.

Minister of Addictions and Mental Health, Brian Comer, highlighted the importance of this program in addressing the shortage of child psychologists in Nova Scotia. By training more doctorate-level psychologists within the province, the program will not only keep talented individuals in Nova Scotia but also increase access to critical mental health care services for families and children.

Kennedy Hackett, a current psychology undergraduate at MSVU, expressed enthusiasm for the hands-on training and practical experience offered by the new doctoral program. Hackett emphasized the opportunity for students to make a difference in the lives of those in need while learning from expert supervisors in the field.

The program will include a training clinic where students will provide supervised services to children, youth, and families. With funding from the Department of Advanced Education and the Office of Addictions and Mental Health, the clinic is set to begin construction this year. Once operational, the clinic is expected to serve over 200 children and youth annually, offering free services to Nova Scotians both on-site and remotely through community partnerships.

Overall, the launch of MSVU’s doctoral psychology program and training clinic signifies a significant step towards meeting the mental health needs of young people in Nova Scotia. By providing specialized training and increasing access to critical services, this initiative aims to make a positive impact on the mental well-being of the community.