US partnership brings new opportunities to psychology teaching at York St John University

York St John University has joined forces with The Chicago School of Professional Psychology to inspire global research and teaching opportunities.  

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed between the institutions, opening doors for staff and students in York as part of the Doctorate of Counselling Psychology. 

Exchange opportunities between visiting faculty members, research scholars and students will build upon high-quality education and curriculum development. 

The partnership will also facilitate joint initiatives on research issues to include symposia, short courses, and publications. 

Professor Divine Charura, Professor of Counselling Psychology and Programme Director, said: “The collaboration between York St John University and The Chicago School is fantastic news for our students and staff. This is an opportunity to draw on the strengths of both parties and enrich research." 

Dr Heather D. Sheets, Campus Dean at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology said: “I am thrilled to see this partnership finalized. I first met Dr Divine Charura in the summer of 2018. Since then, Dr Charura and The Chicago School of Professional Psychology faculty have participated in faculty exchanges, shared research projects, and scholarship collaboration. By solidifying the academic relationship between our two universities, it is exciting to see what future academic partnerships and scholarship will look like.” 

Dr Rachel Wicaksono, Head of the School of Education, Language and Psychology at York St John University, said: “This partnership is about expanding on knowledge and providing our students and staff with exciting opportunities for co-teaching and collaborative research. 

The Doctorate of Counselling Psychology degree at York St John provides training to become a Counselling Psychologist. This role involves psychological and psychotherapeutic theory to treat a wide range of mental health problems and promote well-being. The course is accredited by the British Psychological Society and HCPC (Health & Care Professions Council). 

Current students are given the opportunity to lead groups and take placements, and play an active role in the York St John’s Counselling and Mental Health Clinic. 

Professor Divine Charura added: “This partnership will expand on the opportunities already in place for our students. We look forward to the benefits these professional possibilities will bring to our community.” 

Find out more about The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.