A new clinic at California Baptist University, Psychological Services of Riverside, located in Adams Business Park, opened in the Fall 2019 semester as an extension of the Doctorate in Psychology program.
Dr. Timothy Sisemore, CBU professor and director of the new clinic, said its purpose is to give second-year doctoral students hands-on training in the field of psychology.
“We want this to be a place of learning,” Sisemore said. “I hope (students) learn about how the process works. Students have told me they are so excited to get out of the textbook and into actually doing everything, and (in the clinic) the supervisors can see them in action and help them improve their skills.”
The center features 18 rooms, including conference rooms, offices, consultation rooms, therapy rooms and a reception area.
Twelve students will begin their training during the 2019-2020 school year with 18 students ready to start the following year. Second-year doctoral students are required to spend 15 hours per week in the clinic during the year.
Dr. Douglas Wallace, associate professor of sociology and associate dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, said the new clinic will primarily help the local community.
“It’s an amazing opportunity, and at CBU we like to look around, see what the needs are in the community and meet those needs,” Wallace said. “This is another great example of a way we can partner and give back to the community.”
Wallace said he hopes the clinic will offer members of the Riverside community some hope and healing through their pain.
Other members of the CBU community were present at the grand opening, including Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president, and faculty members from the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences.
Ellis said in a speech at the opening of the new clinic that CBU’s legacy is to make a positive impact in people’s lives.
“I am excited for the people who work (in the clinic) or come here or who bring their children or spouse or parent here. … This place is going to make just a little bit of difference in their lives,” Ellis said.
CBU students said they were impressed with the new clinic and were hopeful for the impact it will have on the community.
Collin Magness, senior anthropology and intercultural studies double major, said he hopes the clinic will remind students and members of the community that it is OK to reach out for help.
“It’s important to remember the importance of mental health,” Magness said. “It’s OK to seek help when needed because you are not alone and, regardless of whether you are a Christian or not, there’s always a place for you with CBU.”
Students and community members who would like to learn more about the new clinic or its services can visit its website at psychservicesriverside.org.
