Master of Arts in in Clinical and Counseling Psychology

BACKGROUND

Cambodia’s recent traumatic history of war, political tension, natural disaster and rapid economic change has resulted in a high rate of people requiring psychological assistance. As a result, there is a great demand for people trained in psychology in both rural and city areas.

In order to fulfill the demands of and deal with social and mental problems more effectively, a Master training is needed for those who are willing to develop their skills and are working in the field of mental health in Cambodia.

Vision

The Department of Psychology aspires to excellence in research, education of master students, to establish an energetic learning environment where graduate students learn the scientific principles of behavior and mental processes, to make significant contributions to the science and practice of psychology, and to produce professionals who serve the local, national, and global communities.

Mission

The Clinical and Counselling Psychology at the Royal University of Phnom Penh has three mission statements: (1) to strive for excellence in mental health by conducting high-quality research and providing exceptional education that equips students with the skills to make a meaningful impact in the field; (2) to create an engaging learning environment where master’s students actively apply scientific principles of behavior and mental processes, developing the skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to both psychological research and practice; and (3) to Prepare graduates to become skilled professionals who actively contribute to and serve diverse communities at local, national, and global levels, applying their expertise to address a range of mental health needs. 

Objectives

Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology is designed (1) to provide comprehensive knowledge and specialized training in psychology, preparing students to address the social and mental health challenges prevalent in Cambodia; (2) to equip students with the necessary skills and techniques for effective intervention in children’s mental health issues, particularly within school settings; and (3) to foster a deep understanding of psychological principles, enabling students to apply evidence-based practices in clinical and counselling contexts.

Strategy

To achieve the above mission and objectives, Master’s degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology has designed the strategies as the following:

-          Provide specialized, evidence-based training and supervised field experience.

-          Promote research, community engagement, and culturally responsive practice.

-          Strengthen partnerships with mental health and social service organizations.

-       Strengthen students’ competencies in child mental health assessment, counseling, and school-based intervention through practical training, supervised field experiences, evidence-based learning, and collaboration with schools and communities.

- Strengthen students’ understanding of psychological principles through research-informed teaching, applied skills training, and supervised practice to support the effective use of evidence-based approaches in clinical and counselling settings.

Eligible Applicant

-         Hold a bachelor degree in psychology or in other related fields.

-         English knowledge-at least Intermediate level

Application Process

-         Biography and Application form                                           

-     A certified copy of Bachelor degree 

Duration of Program

Two-year program with 48 credits

Programs description

The Master of Arts in Clinical and Counselling Psychology provides solid educational training in psychology for individuals who wish to alleviate the many social and mental problems prevalent in Cambodia. It also provides students with necessary skills and techniques to effectively intervene children’s mental health problems in school settings.

Professional/career

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Clinical and Counselling Psychology program will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to address the needs of the Cambodian population through psychoeducation, advanced psychological understanding, and the provision of psychotherapeutic interventions, including individual, group, and family therapy, as well as counseling services. They will also develop competencies in research, particularly in psychological research.

Career Opportunities for Graduates:

-          Psychology Lecturer or Instructor

-          Clinical Psychologist,

-          Counseling Psychologist,

-          School Counselor/Psychologist,

-          Child and Adolescent Counselor,

-          Psychotherapist- individual, group, couples, or family therapy

-          Mental Health Practitioner,

-          Career Counselor,

-          Trauma Counselor,

-          Community Mental Health Practitioner,

-          Psychosocial Support Officer,

-          Mental Health Program Officer,

-          Researcher in psychology and mental health

-          Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Counselor