Congratulations to our Fall 2023 graduates!

What are some words of wisdom/encouragement you would give to a new or incoming student in your program?
Embrace your graduate school journey with curiosity and passion! Your presence in the academic community is a valuable asset and your unique insights and experiences enrich the collective knowledge and understanding. Most importantly, prioritize your mental health and wellbeing. Graduate school can be demanding, so remember to take breaks, seek support when needed, and never underestimate the power of a well-rested mind.

What next? 
I will be continuing my work with Inlight – Student Mental Health Research Initiative at UofT, continuing my research in my research practicum lab, and applying to clinical psychology programs.

Why OISE?
My time in the Developmental Psychology & Education (DPE) program was truly enriching. One aspect I liked most about the program was the research practicum which provided me with an invaluable opportunity to work closely with a knowledgeable and supportive faculty member. The combination of rigorous academic coursework, the research practicum, and the vibrant community of scholars and students made my experience at OISE memorable and rewarding. It not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to form meaningful connections and friendships that will continue to influence my career.

What are some words of wisdom/encouragement you would give to a new or incoming student in your program? The SCCP program can at times feel quite demanding, since you will be balancing coursework with clinical responsibilities and research. One of the biggest lessons I learned through this program is the importance of intentionally carving out time to take care of myself and do the things that allow me to recharge. As you embark on this new learning journey, try to keep in mind that it is normal to sometimes feel overwhelmed—but also remember that you are not alone! The SCCP program is a warm, supportive community of students and professors who are here to answer your questions and provide resources. If you are reading this and would like to connect— please reach out! 

What next? 
I am thrilled to be continuing on in the SCCP PhD program, where I will have the opportunity to continue developing my clinical skills and working on research that I am passionate about.

Why OISE? 
As a former special educator, I was drawn to the dual emphasis of the SCCP program in school and child clinical psychology. The SCCP program also offers many rich practicum opportunities in the Toronto Public School Board and diverse community and hospital settings. Additionally, I was interested in studying at OISE because the research interests of my advisor, Dr. Mark Wade, are well aligned with my own. As part of Dr. Wade’s lab, I have had numerous opportunities to engage in research on the impact of early adversity on children’s mental health and cognitive development.

What are some words of wisdom/encouragement you would give to a new or incoming student in your program? 
Connect with your peers! I can't stress this enough. Your peers will become an asset for future referrals, the CRPO registration process and the exam preparation to become RP, as well as for peer consultation once you're in the field. Additionally, you can make some great friends, and it's a wonderful personal resource to have: a social network of other therapists! Our cohort had a group chat to share resources, events, and other ways to bond, such as organizing our own socials. It's a great idea to get involved with OISE outside of the classroom, such as with a research lab, a social club, an academic club, or a student club. Also, self-care has become a pretty big buzzword in our field, but it's important to really embody this while at OISE. Take up an arts practice if that strikes an interest, or check out ROSE's mindfulness series, volunteer at a community organization, or socialize with some new and old friends. Whatever your form of self-care, remember to get some sleep! You really will need it, and your peers and clients will thank you for catching those zzzs. 

What next?
As a 2nd year student in OISE's CP program I was qualified to register with the CRPO, which enabled me to start my own equitable private practice upon completing my practicum. I have continued to build my practice around offering affordable psychotherapy to underserved, marginalized, and vulnerable communities, specializing in the care of LGBTTQI2SA+, BIPOC, and disabled/chronically ill populations, along with the treatment of mood and anxiety concerns. I intend to continue my studies at OISE at the doctoral level (Counselling Psychology & Psychotherapy - EdD). I have been working on a psychosocial intervention for bipolar disorder over the last decade called Mindfulness-Based Awareness & Transformation Therapy (MBATT), which I'd like to intensively research as part of my doctoral dissertation. 

Why OISE?
Well, I did my undergraduate degree in psychology at UofT, so I must be an academic masochist! Seriously though, OISE and UofT have a great reputation, and the MEd CP program is accredited with the CRPO. The program provided foundational training, which built upon my previous training in addictions and mental health, CBT, and Mindfulness-based approaches. The mix of theoretical and experiential training was valuable, as was the ability to locate a practicum site that specialized with my populations of interest. The opportunity to work with Dr. Ellen Gutowski's Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) lab gave me academic experience outside of the classroom, allowing me to connect with other students and faculty, to advance my own learning, and to help bridge gaps within the field of research. Additionally, the commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion has always been a top priority in choosing an educational institution, and I have appreciated the progress that I have witnessed while at OISE, and look forward to seeing these values expanded upon not only within the curriculum, but also within OISE, and the greater UofT community.  

What led you to OISE?
Expose yourself more by joining various activities organised by OISE and UofT.  You will be amazed how you can connect the dots afterwards for both your personal and academic development.

WHY OISE?
The DPE MEd program brings me new perspectives on Education and encourages me to think more outside of the box. I am now working part time and doing different therapy and psychology related certificate courses, for widening my horizons to further prepare myself on mapping out my future plans.

What next?
The DPE MEd program has offered a great flexibility in course selection, which has provided me a chance to get a diverse yet in-depth understanding towards different fields. Opportunities in joining the practicum in Professor Michal Perlman’s lab and the research project of Professor Tracy Solomon have also given me invaluable real-life and hands on experiences. Besides, I appreciate OISE’s effort in creating a warm, welcoming and supportive environment for students. As an international student, I have gained access to help when I need to, which has shaped my sense of belonging towards OISE.

What are some words of wisdom/encouragement you would give to a new or incoming student in your program?
Grad school is a long and difficult road, don’t be afraid to let it change you. Some of you may be starting out knowing exactly what you think you want to get out of the program and who you think you want to be when you graduate. Perhaps that is right where you land, but I’d challenge you to park some of the careful and strategic planning at the door. Take an elective that pulls you out of your comfort zone and expands your view of the field. Do a practicum placement that forces you to work with a population that you never envisioned yourself working with. Seek out opportunities to learn and fail and try again, I promise you’ll be a better clinician and scientist on the other end for it. 

What next? 
Working as a psychologist in supervised practice in Toronto. 

Why OISE? 
Far beyond any of the academic or professional opportunities afforded to me, the people I met along the way were the best thing about my time at OISE. I am now starting my career with a large network of intelligent and accomplished colleagues who I look forward to working with in the years to come. I will also be forever grateful for the classmates that went through the program alongside me, many of whom have become wonderful friends. If it takes a village to get a grad student through school, I got really lucky with mine.  

What are some words of wisdom/encouragement you would give to a new or incoming student in your program?
Everyone is just figuring it out! I came into grad school thinking that everyone knew what they were doing and that I needed to have all my routines mastered right away. In reality, most of us are learning as we go. My biggest advice would be to push past the fear of asking for help or seeking another perspective. Every person I have encountered at OISE has been more than happy to lend a hand in any way they can. The more we are honest about our experiences and apprehensions, the more we can learn from each other’s strengths! 

What next? 
I’ll be returning to OISE to complete the CCP PhD program

Why OISE? 
I chose OISE because the school, the CCP program, and my supervisor all seemed to align best with my research and career goals. Looking back on my experience so far, I have most valued the diversity of voices present within the student body and faculty at OISE. The discussions both in and outside of the classroom have been pivotal to my learning and growth in the program.

What are some words of wisdom/encouragement you would give to a new or incoming student in your program? 
Try to approach the training with curiosity, as there will be a lot of interesting and fun opportunities to engage in. Don’t be too hard on yourself! There are going to be many hurdles to get through as you progress in the program, and the fact that you are in this program means that you are likely highly motivated, personable, and passionate about helping children and their families. Those are the attributes that are integral for successfully completing the doctoral program in SCCP. Value the sense of community that can build within your cohort and other students in your program, as they are often the people who can relate most to this process.   

What next? 
Over the next year, I will be working as a Psychologist in Supervised Practice and completing the requirements (i.e., clinical hours, written and oral exams) required for registration as an Autonomous Psychologist. I am currently working in the areas of Child Clinical and Forensic Psychology in a secure treatment facility as well as part-time in private practice. I am also working toward publishing my doctoral research, which examined the role of parental factors in child irritability.