PhD in Psychology - Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology in Guelph Canada | University of Guelph

The CCAP Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology (CCAP) Program examines the psychological development of children and teens facing mental health challenges within family, school, and community environments.
The program explores multiple aspects including social, emotional, cognitive, and neurobiological characteristics of both typical and atypical development; factors that may increase risk or provide protection during development; how stressful experiences affect growth; and developmental methods for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.
Following a scientist-practitioner approach, the program combines coursework and practical training at both MA and PhD levels to develop skills in clinical practice and research. Students gain hands-on experience through cases at our on-site Centre for Psychological Training and external placements in hospitals, mental health facilities, and schools supervised by licensed psychologists. This comprehensive training prepares graduates for clinical, research, or academic roles in various settings including healthcare institutions, educational systems, and private practice.

The program also qualifies students to pursue professional licensure with provincial psychology boards. Our PhD alumni have established careers in academia, healthcare, private practice, and educational administration.
CCAP faculty conduct diverse research spanning parent-child relationships, social anxiety, teen relationships, behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorders, child safety, pediatric pain management, caregiver stress, emotional bonds, moral development, childhood stress responses, eating disorders, adolescent risk behaviors, parental trauma effects, literacy development, learning disabilities, and reading disorders.