The Province of Nova Scotia has announced the introduction of a new clinical psychology residency program at Dalhousie University, set to commence in the fall of 2025. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for clinical psychologists in the region by providing local training opportunities for students.
Key Takeaways
- New residency program to begin in fall 2025 at Dalhousie University.
- Four residency seats available, split between the Dalhousie Centre for Psychological Health and the Student Health and Wellness Centre.
- Government investment of $311,025 to support the program.
- A total of $4.5 million allocated over three years for the Dalhousie Centre for Psychological Health.
The new 12-month residency program will offer four positions, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment. This program is particularly significant as it enables students to complete their residency in Halifax, eliminating the need to seek opportunities out of province.
Brian Comer, the Minister of Addictions and Mental Health, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "There is an ongoing need for more clinical psychologists across the province, and one of the best ways we can address this, while getting immediate results, is by training more people right here in our province."
Enhancing Mental Health Services
The establishment of this residency program is part of a broader strategy to enhance mental health services in Nova Scotia. The government is committed to increasing the healthcare workforce and reducing gaps in access to care, as outlined in their Action for Health plan.
Dr. Alissa Pencer, Co-Director of the Dalhousie Centre for Psychological Health, noted, "Having this residency program at Dalhousie increases a greatly needed opportunity for our students in the PhD clinical psychology program to remain in Halifax for their required residency year."
Financial Support for Students
In addition to the residency positions, the government is providing $350,000 in bursaries over three years to support approximately 35 students completing practicums at the Centre for Psychological Health. This financial assistance is part of the government’s commitment to universal mental health and addictions care for Nova Scotians.
Current Landscape of Clinical Psychology in Nova Scotia
Currently, there are 14 clinical psychology residency seats available in Nova Scotia, distributed as follows:
- 6 at Nova Scotia Health
- 6 at IWK Health
- 2 with the Canadian Forces Health Services Centre Atlantic
The introduction of the new residency program at Dalhousie University is expected to increase the number of trained clinical psychologists in the province, ultimately benefiting the mental health services available to the community.
Conclusion
The new clinical psychology residency program at Dalhousie University represents a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of Nova Scotians. By investing in local training opportunities, the province aims to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of providing essential mental health services to those in need.
