8th Annual Psy.D. Fall Ethics Forum

In November 2023, students in the 2024 Psy.D. program showcased their research at the 8th Annual Fall Ethics Forum. Their presentation, titled "Professional Identity as a Psychologist," explored the evolving nature of professional identity within the field of psychology. The research delved into how psychologists develop and navigate their professional roles, emphasizing the impact of ethical challenges, cultural competencies, and personal values on their identities.

The forum, attended by faculty, students, and practicing psychologists, served as a valuable platform for emerging scholars to present their work and engage in meaningful discussions on ethical issues in the field. The students’ presentation was met with praise for its depth and relevance, with many attendees noting its significance in promoting ethical awareness and professional development in counseling psychology.

The event not only allowed the students to share their findings but also fostered collaboration and networking within the broader academic and professional community. Program Director Diane Menago shared that the Ethics forum “offers a unique opportunity to connect with students and gain insights into their leadership styles, collaborative approaches, and critical thinking abilities.” Menago described crafting a presentation that was not only relevant and timely but also deeply informed by a multicultural perspective. Their work demonstrated both thoughtfulness and a commitment to addressing complex ethical issues in a way that reflects the diverse experiences and needs of the counseling profession. 

Students in the cohort shared their insights into what made the event a success. Raquel Cameron emphasized that “professional identity is central to ethical practice and the integrity of psychology as a field.” She noted the importance of understanding professional identity, “particularly for new psychologists or those working with marginalized communities, where trust and ethical clarity are crucial.” Chris White added that “the audience was very responsive to questions and [also] asked questions at the end of the presentation.” Cameron also shared the most significant takeaway from the event: “recognizing how deeply professional identity intersects with ethics and the psychologist’s personal values. This topic reinforced that professional identity is not just about what we do but who we are as ethical practitioners.”

We hope to see you for our 9th Annual Fall Ethics Forum!

Written by: Francesca Maslin