PsychologyPersonalStatement.com
by Dr. Robert Edinger
Helping Applicants Since 2005
drrobertedinger@gmail.com
Prices on the website are negotiable.
Standard Statement Service
Premium Statement Service
Letter of Recommendation
CV/Resume Edit
24 Hour Turnaround Time
I invite you to fill out my Interview Form at this link. Even if you have a draft of your Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose for Graduate School in Psychology or Mental Health Counseling, the information on the interview form is often helpful and serves as the basis for me to make creative improvements to the statement. I spend more time with the statement for my premium service customers at US$299.00; this is especially true when it comes to making major contributions to creative ideas. My standard service at US$199.00 is for clients who already have a well-developed draft. My premium service is for clients who want my ultimate effort and further revision after they have a chance to make changes.
All samples published on this website are anonymous and at least two years old. Prices on the website are negotiable.
Counseling Psychology Personal Statements and Statements of Purpose, Professional Writing and Editing, Examples, Tips, Strategies
Sample first paragraph for the Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology
Example 1: My current position as a birth doula, the pregnant woman’s coach, counselor, and perhaps most importantly ‘advocate’, has resulted in the discovery of my calling in life. I enjoy the fact that the word ‘doula’ originated from the Ancient Greek δούλη meaning female servant or slave because this speaks to my total devotion to the women whom I serve, along with their families, before, during, and after delivery. I hope to make the role of the doula a central focus of much of my research in your Mental Health Counseling Program at XXXX College, unlocking secrets and intellectual treasures concerning her role across cultures and throughout history.
Example 2: As I approach my graduation next month, May 2014, I find myself increasingly animated and driven to continue on with my education in psychology at the graduate level. Throughout the course of working towards my BS in Psychology, while engaging passionately with a broad range of issues, I have found myself drawn, in particular, to our investigation into the nature of anxiety and the range of treatments that exist for this disorder. I hope to publish in this area at some point when my career advances. I want very much to become a counseling psychology professional for a variety of reasons, especially my personal, intellectual fascination with psychology. Another factor has been wrestling with and making great strides towards the resolution of my own problem with anxiety. My profound disappointed and adverse reaction to anti-anxiety medication, in particular, has inspired me towards a thoroughgoing and dedicated search for creative solutions to this challenge in our field, all of which I find extremely exciting.
Writing a personal statement of purpose for a graduate program in counseling psychology is a significant step. Here are some tips and strategies to help you create a compelling and effective statement:
1. Start with a Strong Opening
Begin with a captivating introduction that grabs the reader's attention. This could be a personal anecdote, a meaningful quote, or an insightful observation related to counseling psychology.
2. Define Your Goals
Clearly articulate why you want to pursue a graduate degree in counseling psychology. Outline your short-term and long-term career goals and how the program aligns with your professional aspirations.
3. Highlight Relevant Academic and Professional Experiences
Detail your academic background, including relevant coursework, research experiences, internships, and professional work related to counseling psychology. Emphasize how these experiences have prepared you for graduate study.
4. Share Personal Stories and Motivations
Discuss personal experiences that have influenced your decision to specialize in counseling psychology. Share any challenges you've faced and how they have shaped your passion for this field.
5. Emphasize Counseling Skills
Showcase your skills in counseling, such as empathy, active listening, communication, and problem-solving. Provide specific examples of how you have applied these skills in relevant settings.
6. Discuss Research Interests
Identify your research interests and how they align with the faculty’s expertise at the institution. Mention any specific professors you’re interested in working with and why.
7. Demonstrate Fit with the Program
Explain why you chose this specific program. Highlight unique aspects of the program, such as specializations, faculty members, research facilities, or partnerships that attracted you.
8. Be Concise and Focused
Stick to the word limit and ensure every sentence serves a purpose. Avoid unnecessary jargon and focus on clear, concise, and impactful writing.
9. Revise and Proofread
Revise your statement multiple times. Check for grammar and spelling errors, and ensure your writing is polished and professional. It can be helpful to have mentors, peers, or professional services review your statement for feedback.
10. Be Authentic
Finally, be yourself. Authenticity resonates with admissions committees. Show your genuine interest and enthusiasm for counseling psychology and convey your unique voice.