The PGSP-AIGLÉ Program
What is training like at AIGLÉ?
Aiglé students learn to apply the latest theoretical developments in psychological science to the cultural characteristics and welfare needs of Latin America. Training provides tools for the best use of psycho-social resources and fosters research.
Aiglé places strong emphasis on clinical practice and the development of skills, especially in the field of the psychotherapy. Students carry out supervised internships at the Aiglé Foundation with patients referred by NGOs and Public Health Services, and supervised externships in public and private institutions. They learn to apply psycho-social intervention programs that include process and results assessment.
In line with Aiglé's research program on the personal style of the therapist (ongoing since 1998), training draws on the natural strengths of each student. Students learn to identify their own therapeutic style and to develop their skills accordingly in order to achieve maximum effectiveness. At the same time, they learn to protect themselves in performing their professional role.
During practical training a variety of technical resources are used to enhance learning: Powerpoint slides, integrating theory with short examples from clinical practice, guided role-playing, didactic videotaped therapy sessions, seminars on clinical cases, and guided observation via closed circuit television. The training model involves intensive supervision of each student including observed live, videotaped or audio taped observation and discussion with a therapist trained specifically in supervision skills. In this way training can be tailored to fit the developmental level and the learning needs of each student.