A systemic view of higher education and professional psychology: implications of the Combined-Integrated model of doctoral training

This article was developed in response to the proceedings of the Consensus Conference on Combined and Integrated Doctoral Training in Psychology held at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, May 2 to 4, 2003. The authors approach the recommendations of the conference from the perspective of their experiences in higher education administration at the national, regional, and state levels. The authors conclude that the Consensus Conference represents an exemplar of best practice in program planning. They suggest that a major reconceptualization of higher education is under way that emphasizes broad collaboration among various professional groups as a means of providing appropriate mental health and health care services. Consequently, professional psychology will need to reconceptualize its role in the broader context of other professions within the university setting. Recommendations for the education of psychologists and the development of future training programs are provided. Suggestions for implementation of various recommendations flowing from the Consensus Conference are delineated.