Psychoanalytic Studies Program

Our program is based on deep respect for:

• the uniqueness of each individual
• the profound and therapeutic understanding that develops within the long-term collaboration between analyst and patient
• the analytic principle that the past lives on and is transformed in the present

Thus, we believe that preparation for providing analytic treatments should cultivate a comprehensive ability to think critically and self-reflectively about psychoanalytic theory and practice over time, as it relates to both children and adults.

SDPC provides a Combined Training Program for all qualified individuals interested in academic or clinical training in psychoanalysis. All candidates participate in the same courses, but the duration and requirements of the programs differ. Those interested in the academic track may complete either a two-year or four-year program of courses. Those interested in the psychotherapy track will complete the two-year program of courses, along with additional clinical requirements, to graduate with a certificate in psychoanalytic psychotherapy, while those interested in the psychoanalytic track will continue to complete five years of coursework, plus additional clinical requirements, in order to graduate from the child and adult psychoanalytic program. Psychoanalytic training is a comprehensive life experience, involving new learning, new personal insights and new connections with professional colleagues.

We offer training for those interested in the academic or clinical tracks. Those interested in the academic track may complete the two- or four-year programs. Those interested in the clinical track must be  licensed mental health professionals and will be trained in the theory and practice of psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy, with programs designed to meet their particular interests and enhance their professional skills and practice – all in the context of a welcoming and supportive community. Candidates may complete the two-year psychoanalytic psychotherapy program, as well as the clinical requirements and graduate with a certificate in Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, or continue to complete the five-year child & adult psychoanalytic program as well as the additional clinical requirements.

Prerequisites and expectations of each program are listed in each program track.

Please contact our Director of Admissions for any questions: admissions@sdpsychoanalytic.org

SDPC is affiliated with the American Psychoanalytic Association and the International Psychoanalytic Association and is accredited by the California Medical Association (CMA) and the California Association for Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT).

The Center for Psychoanalytic Studies admits students of any race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation or ability to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, and other school-administered programs.