Advanced Adlerian Psychotherapy

Advanced Adlerian Psychotherapy Certificate

Advanced training in Adlerian theory and psychotherapy has been part of a long-standing tradition at the Adler School of Professional Psychology. The School, originally named the Alfred Adler Institute of Chicago, offered training and education in Adlerian theory to mental health professionals. The Institute was founded and led by Rudolf Dreikurs, MD, who was a student of Alfred Adler. Dr. Dreikurs, along with Bernard Shulman, MD, Harold Mosak, PhD and Robert Powers, M.Div., all played essential roles in the formation of the curriculum, and the establishment of recognized certification in Adlerian Theory and Methods.

In keeping with this tradition, training in Advanced Adlerian Psychotherapy remains available to individuals enrolled in Adler School of Professional Psychology Masters’ programs as well as those who already hold a Master’s or doctoral degree. Students in this certificate program will receive specialized training in the principles, techniques and methodologies of Adlerian psychotherapy through intensive study and supervised clinical experiences.

The curriculum offers training in evidenced-based techniques and current best-practices of the field of clinical psychology. Attention will be given to developing or enhancing assessment and advanced intervention skills through the application of Adler’s theory to specific topics and clinical cases. Further attention will be given to guiding students in conceptualizing Adlerian theory within the broader context of their practices, communities and the global world. Students will be encouraged to contribute to the Adlerian literature with their findings.

Admission Requirements

Applicants interested in this certificate typically require:

• A master’s or doctorate degree in clinical or counseling psychology, social work, or a related field from an accredited institution
• Approved applicants will be invited to interview as a final step in the application process

Certificate Curriculum

The following courses are required for successful completion of the Advanced Adlerian Psychotherapy Certificate:

• 402: Introduction to Adlerian Psychology and Psychopathology (3 credits)
• 433: Parenting Education: Adlerian Theory and Interventions (2 credits)
• 514: Life Style Analysis and Diagnosis (3 credits)
• 517: Advanced Life Style Assessment (3 credits)**
• 523: Adlerian Approaches to Individual and Family Therapy (3 credits)
• 524: Advanced Adlerian Interventions and Theory (3 credits)**

**Meets requirement for Advanced Assessment/Intervention Elective for Psy.D. program

Advisement/Training Requirements

• At least 2 Practicum Seminars (502-503 or 601-609) with an Adlerian seminar leader.
• Integration of Science and Practice Requirement: certificate candidates must produce an article suitable for publication with an Adlerian focus.
• As a final requirement, students will conceptualize a clinical case and develop an intervention strategy utilizing an Adlerian theoretical framework. Students will then present their work to their peers in the seminar as well as at a Common Hour event.

Total credit hours: 21