I am a current student. Pacifica is a very specific program for those interested in an incredibly unique approach to psychology. I have found the professors, administration and staff to be exceptionally mature and patient. It is a place for serious scholarship in the Depth field- a field of study that can be very challenging. But for those who feel the call to this challenge, this institute can hold you. read more

now suing this school for withholding my grades even with proof and agreement from professor.

I just visited the Joseph Smith Library with my wife! I had an amazing time. A librarian by the name of Amanda was our guide. She was friendly, knowledgeable and went out of her way to answer our questions. What an amazing day. read more

Pacifica Graduate Institute - Joseph Campbell Library entrance. - Colleges & Universities Near Me - Carpinteria, California

looks nice on the outside, has some excellent professors, but is drowning in beaurocratic disasters in both administration and general student body support on every level. watch out for the pretend to be progressive and inclusive but secretly just dont actually create systems of development or support and take your money and run scenario. i learned a lot but was generally constantly frustrated with their inability to match their ethical standards, be collaborative or supportive and scapegoat any and all teachers and student body who demanded basic respect and communication. read more

I'm supposed to be writing my fieldwork paper right now, but I what I was really doing was looking for a job and happened upon the Yelp Reviews of my school (that I was entering into a job application), and felt the need to defend the depth (pun intended) and intentionality of this great institution. But, before I get into that, I think it's important to understand that a school is going to get this wild ranging reviews of personal experience and affiliation. I hated my classes and style of learning at The University of Akron, but during those undergraduate years I developed great friendships that will last a lifetime. I still represent the school at every chance, though the learning was crap. Prescott College is a low-residency program that was transformative for me, but, if you need to be in a classroom and are not an independent learner, then it would be a terrible situation for you. Such is life. Not all things are for all people. The education at Pacifica is rigorous. I'm in the MA/PhD Depth Psychology Program with emphasis in Community Psychology, Liberation Psychology and Ecopsychology. I'm in the second year and I can honestly admit to learning more in this last year than I did in both my Master's and B.A. This is because the education forces you not only to learn subject matter, but to learn about yourself. Doing both can be overwhelming but this is what education is supposed to do. Many people just want to fill their heads with information then go out into the world with a piece of paper that says they can do such and such profession. You are nudged into going deeper into who you are as an individual and what you are here to do with your time on earth. This type of education is priceless. It's a win-win for someone like myself. I haven't had a teacher that doesn't have a PhD or is not an "expert" in their field. I have been humbled by the immense knowledge base and personal depth that all of my professors have brought to the classroom. They ask a lot of you, but that's what they're supposed to do. It's not easy. It's a lot of hard work, but the payoff, in understanding and personal efficacy is outstanding. You will be made better for it. The school has been very transparent with us. We got a letter in the mail about the lawsuit and the President happened upon my cohort at lunch and entered into a conversation with us about it. They continually ask for feedback and student participation in the programming, and have implemented student suggestions in the changes they have made. I'm sorry that some folks have had negative experiences with Pacifica. It happens. Not all things are for all people. This is they way life is. Pacifica may not be for you, then, it may just be what sets you on your life path - as is the case for me and many others that I'm in a learning community with. Go visit, talk to the staff, walk the land ... you'll know if it's for you or not. I'll let you know if anything changes. Peace. read more

I just graduated with my MA in Counseling Psychology with Emphasis in Depth Psychology. It was a profoundly transformative experience. It isn't just about classes and writing papers. To do the work you have to look deeply inside yourself. With their emphasis on Depth Psychology, you are taught to look beyond surface symptoms, and to treat the whole person. The cohort system leads to deep friendships and creates a network of colleagues when you are done. Best of all, however, is how well I was prepared to work with clients. Pre-graduation you must complete a practicum, working in a non profit clinic as a therapist. The skills I learned at PGI gave the ability to do very good work with clients, as evidenced by the progress they made, and feedback from supervisors and colleagues. As a graduate, I have already been offered a number of internships. Pacifica is expensive, and if you're looking for run of the mill CBT training, this is not the place for you. Pacifica is based on the work of people like Carl Jung, Heinz Kohut, Donald Winnicott, and Marion Woodman. If you are willing to do a lot of work on yourself in order to become a healer, and want to become a therapist who can help clients find the root of their suffering instead of just trying to change surface behavior, then you should consider Pacifica. It changed my life and prepared me to be the kind of therapist I want to be. read more

Attended PGI 2006-2009 aiming for PhD in Depth Psychology. Wound up taking a medical leave final year, having to make up a class in 2010; never got on track with Dissertation so settled for an MA. I'll be clear: I came to Pacifica for the experience more than the degree and was not disappointed. There was a range of scholarship within my cohort ranging from the very studious and conscientious to those who invested minimal effort. I was in the middle and struggled to meet the workload while fully employed at a demanding job. 12 years following matriculation, I believe 4 students in my cohort of 20 finished their dissertation. (That may be well under the rate of the other cohort running concurrently with ours that was rumored to be more studious.) 6 people dropped out of my cohort during or after year one, a few more at year two. 11 or 12 finished the three years of study prior to dissertation time. Pacifica is not for everyone and mistakenly is too inclusive. I believe that has fueled problems for the University and some of its students. But I like that there is a quality program that works hard to be accessible to people who would be marginalized in nearly any other academic setting. I have read some very inflammatory statements from unhappy people who attribute dishonesty to the administration and faculty. That was never my experience. I was asked directly by a faculty member about 2008 if I had ever been told program completion would lead equate to licensure and I could honestly say I was never led or misled to believe anything like that. I believe some people may have had their own ideas. My belief is that Pacifica - then and now - markets to and caters to mature adults who want the transformative experience of engagement with other mature adults answering the creative call of Depth Psychology pioneers like Jung and Joseph Campbell. During my time there I had hands on guidance from faculty I respected --with an exception or two--and additional lectures and personal engagement with thought leaders like James Hillman and Marion Woodman. In these exchanges, I felt as though I could go directly to the source of contemporary writers on subjects important to me. Also, during my time then and subsequently I have seen Pacifica faculty deal patiently and kindly with students who had meltdowns over perceived failure to meet narcissistic or childish demands, and students who would not have gained entry to many other universities. And there are students I have know who received scholarship assistance from the University. Money makes the wheels turn, yes, but it is not all about money, either. It is true that PGI is for-profit; mostly it is run, as I understand it, as an employee profit sharing plan so that PGI continues to invest in its people. I believe that is quantitatively different from publicly traded for-profit universities that have an eye on short term gains. Even though I did not complete the degree I sought, and even though I paid full price of about 70K tuition and an additional 25 K in travel, I believe I received a valuable experience. After a 3-year break, I have returned for public programs, certificate programs, and other gatherings over the past five years. I would not say that I "drank the kool-ade", as another reviewer suggested; I would assert I have a different and more confident view of the integrity of staff and administration of PGI. read more

It doesn't make sense why a couple people here are writing (lying!) that the professors have no teaching experience or publications -- the opposite is true: the best Depth Psychologists and Mythologists in the world teach here. I am applying for the Phd Clinical Psych Program because after taking many, many of Pacifica's incredible public programs, I know many teachers and trust 100% that I will learn all I need to to be the best psychotherapist I can be. As far as accommodations go, the people that say you have to stay at the Best Western are also lying. You can stay anywhere you want: they just offer discounts. Most students stay on the Ladera Lane Campus, which makes going to school so much easier. Unfortunately there is a huge paradox here. In order to get APA credit, Pacifica has to make their classes more like the mainstream, which means less emphasis on what they are known for and most proficient in: depth/Jungian psychology. We all want everything: the school that fits perfectly with our souls calling, AND the prestige/certifications to fit in with the rest of the world. If anything, I have a feeling Pacifica would be best off ditching all efforts to get APA accredited, until the APA expands their concept of what psychology/therapy is about. But, then others won't take it as seriously... it is a conundrum! I left my Phd Program at the University of Denver half way through: mostly due to the fact that I came to feel I destined and longing for something different. Also, there were some major issues, that neither I nor a couple of professors were capable of working through productively on our own, because of our own shortcomings and unresolved personal issues. I believe that the Professors at Pacifica, for the most part, have done their own personal work as much as anyone could ever hope, and I am now mature enough to deal with conflict and the storm of feelings one experiences in therapy-based programs. If you aren't prepared for deep shadow and edgy interpersonal work, you should not be pursuing an Indepth and costly course of study in Depth Psychology, because as others above wrote, you will project your demons on to all those around you. I just wish people wouldn't lie on these kinds of sites! read more

I received an MA in Engaged Humanities from Pacifica in May 2014. The two years I spent in the Engaged Humanities program have enriched my creative practices and provided an interdisciplinary lens, through depth psychology, in which to foster my life's work. I believe this MA is ideal for someone who wants a creative/humanities degree that is more alive and current than most, and especially for those who have considered an MFA program, but are not keen on the usual competitive (and often soul punishing) atmosphere. Instead, Pacifica offers a robust educational experience that is also supportive, fostering an atmosphere of personal as well as professional growth. Theirs is not a cookie-cutter approach to education. It is about each individual's unique journey, and paradoxically, how this leads to a deeper connection to community and the world at large. They take their motto of "Tending the Soul of the World" seriously! Towards the end of my MA program, I knew that I wanted to pursue a PhD. However when I looked around, I could not find another school that offered such a rich and creative approach to psychology. Therefore, I am now pursuing a PhD in the Depth Psychology Jungian/Archetypal Studies program (1st year). So, I cannot speak more highly than that! As others have noted, the campuses are lovely, and the environment is one of relaxed contemplation. The professors are amazingly accessible, and I've not met one yet who does not care about each student's educational experience. I have also been amazed at the breadth and depth of each professor's background. In the Humanities program, most are PhD's with a long list of published work, or if not a PhD they have an accomplished professional/creative career. In the doctoral program, they are all PhDs. Pacifica has something unique and potentially life changing to offer. Maybe it is not for everyone, but perhaps it is for you. Cheers! read more

Imagine a contemporary educational campus and curriculum that is built on the foundation of disruptive thinking fused with balancing new knowledge that arises out of such creativity so that entire shifts in personal, as well as social, tides are made into real and effective transformation - moving our market-place lives from a flailing, failing struggle, into a world that works beautifully. This is my experience of the potential I realized at Pacifica. I completed my MA at Pacifica in the Engaged Humanities and Creative Life with an Emphasis in Depth Psychology program in June 2014. This experience over 2 years enabled me to create a body of work in art, music and poetry that I am now furthering into a portfolio that establishes a visionary representation of my sensibilities, communicating and communing directly in support and advocacy for me as a professional. Pacifica's eclectic, yet targeted curriculum encompasses the incredible rising depths of psyche's intelligence that has real and practical street value - which simply furthered my own intention and sense of integrity towards an aesthetic love of life, learning, and collaborating within the embrace of both the shuddering darkness of this world, and its magnificent, brilliant light. In other words, remember when neuroscientists used to say that we basically only use about 5-10% of our brain/mind capacity? IMO the leading edge of Pacifica's approach - taken thru explorations of depth psychology - in no uncertain terms 'engineers' creativity so that new areas of a student's mind/psyche are pioneered. That means the real possibility to access more percentage of one's natural intelligence is part of Pacifica's praxis and philosophy. True education means 'to draw from,' and at Pacifica minds are opened up and made psycho-active - put into play. In my life this creative engineering has actualized as work made entrepreneurial and successful. I am deeply grateful for such scholarly and hands-on dynamic uncovering of so much creativity possible within. Through this Pacifica program I have come to know, as new knowledge; visual artistic work, musical composition, and a more profound poetic/lyrical voice. This is creativity effectively sculpting both in the shadows of my unconscious psyche and in the light of my gleaming awareness. This kind of maturing in educational wholeness brings a personal sense of authentic insights and practical work in a kind of ecology of inner and outer world living - otherwise often missing in many mainstream university settings. Education needs to incorporate the trajectory of a student's arc of soul and life into the mechanics of making a living in the world. Making a good living depends upon living a good making of yourself - and that requires an awakening of integrity first. An integral balance and strength of the inner landscape of yourself is what Pacifica provides as it's main goal. To creatively expand towards much needed 'new knowledge' that the streets of our shifting world landscapes obviously require, requires STEAM. That is, fundamentally INCLUDING the under-funded Arts (and Humanities) in concert with the common corporate-pushed fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math is what's needed. In other words again, STEM needs STEAM. I wholeheartedly recommend Pacifica Graduate Institute as a leading-edge higher education facility for tending the soul of the world in flourishing depth, and more specifically, the Engaged Humanities and Creative Life program for activating the culture, tribe, society and individual in expanding creative solutions and results that can lift, even transform, calcified thinking and static paradigms that darken our world, into what we all seek - a world that works, beautifully. read more

This review is about Pacifica's doctoral program in clinical psychology, which has an emphasis in depth psychology. I received a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Pacifica in 2002 and am very happy with the education that I received and the contacts that I made there. In my opinion, the instructors were just as good as the professors that I had at one of the Seven Sister colleges and an Ivy League university, where I also earned degrees. In my class at Pacifica, the students were very intelligent, interested in learning and committed to the field, and the courses were interesting and covered the ground well enough to enable me to do well on the national licensing exam on my first try. The reason why I chose Pacifica was because I wanted an education that would enable me to explore and combine my interests in spirituality and psychology, and because one of the most deeply meaningful and enjoyable therapeutic experiences that I've ever had was with a therapist who had graduated from the school. Based upon my educational experience at Pacifica, I recommend their clinical program without hesitation. read more

I graduated from Pacifica Graduate Institute in 2003. My coursework was difficult as I was also working full time as a teacher, a demanding job even without the extra requirements of a doctoral program. And still, I would not change my decision to accept that challenge as my education at Pacifica transformed my life. Some examples of the trajectory my life took after being educated at Pacifica: I went on to pass the licensing examination for clinical psychology, moved to higher education where I became a tenured associate professor at State University of New York and ten years later opened a successful clinical psychology practice. I have also written two books, one on imaginal psychology published by a leading publisher of Jungian thought, and another YA novel this year which is a statement about the enchantment of personal myth, published by the same publisher. I was so pleased with the quality of my education at Pacifica and the brilliant faculty I found there. The professors not only offer groundbreaking work to the field but some have supported me in my professional journey in small and larger ways. I have often recommended PGI to promising would-be candidates and encourage anyone to consider going there. After reading some of the negative reviews I wanted to weigh in with one particular comment. Nawal Z said, "it is geared for the wealthy..." I remember how much I wanted to give myself the gift of a PGI education. I didn't have very much money and no family financial support at the time, as well as a daughter in college. I deeply respect people who are careful with money decisions, but I chose to go for it. Not all people would do the same and I get that. Though I probably will pay a set amount on my student loan for much of my life, I feel that I got my money's worth and more. The doors that were opened for me professionally, and my willingness to work hard paid off. That I now am able to contribute to the fields of imaginal psychology, and clinical psychology is a joy to me. That I was able to create a thriving practice is a dream come true. I live thousands of miles away from PGI at this time, but I do try to get back for alumni visits whenever I can, just to fuel my sense of family and motivate me for future professional steps. My only advice regarding borrowing is, if you do accept loans to go to any school, even if it's VERY hard, do pay the interest on those loans as you go through the program, because that interest can really grow the debt. read more

I just read a review of Pacifica by an unhappy student in the clinical program and would like to offer my experience: I am currently in my 2nd year of the Jungian/Archetypal studies program--a program focused on scholarly research of a wide range of subjects using a Jungian and Hillmanian lens. My instructors are, every single one, internationally recognized scholars, writers, lecturers, and thinkers in their respective fields. I still get a thrill when I go on Amazon for a book and one of my professors' work is in the suggested list! The guest lecturers I have had at Residentials have been people whose books have graced my shelves for years--Christine Downing, and James Hollis for example. Before I come to Pacifica I "auditioned" the school; a PhD program is a very expensive proposition at any private institution so I spent the money and took the time to attend a 6 month public program--and met amazing people from all over the US and Canada! I met with instructors, students from beginning to those finishing their coursework, ate the food, walked the grounds, talked to the secretaries (if you want to know about a place, get in good with the administrative support staff), and even the security guards. I got online and looked a bios, read what has been published by various teachers in the different programs I was interested in, and downloaded journal articles and bought books. I was unwilling to spend the money and the time on an education that was not deeply grounded in Jung and Hillman or was all hype. Even though I am just beginning my second year of study, I have already had a proposal picked up for presentation at a national conference and one of my instructors has agreed to support me through the writing process. Every paper I write for class, every submission to the online conversation (I am in a hybrid program--primarily online with 4 very intense days on campus each quarter) is expected to be grounded in the scholarly work of previous writers, cited, and my own thoughts supported and backed up by previous research--I am being groomed to be my instructors' peer. If you want a MA/PhD that will stand up to the rigors of a passionate international community of scholars then come to Pacifica; but do your own homework. If you want a degree that is respectable but that prepares you for basic research and/or an academic career go somewhere else. If you want the letters after your name, you can buy a degree from any number of diploma mills. Pacifica will turn you inside out as any good institution of higher learning should--you will cry with frustration, you will watch your friends drop off, you will fight with yourself about the money it costs, you will be proud that you've made it one more quarter. If you want to be a part of something that matters and you want to bring something to the table, come to Pacifica--if you want to be fed but could care less about contributing to your classmates education and experience and to the school, go somewhere else. read more

I was so very excited to be accepted to this school in their PhD Clinical Psychology program. I did my research on the school and its setting, allowed for the fact that it is not accepted by the APA, and spent a great deal of money on travel and meeting with various staff. What disappointed me the most is that no real form of financial aid is offered, at all. You are expected to pay out of pocket or get federal loans for the very expensive tuition and boarding that they offer. (More on the strange boarding situation Pacifica offers is below.) The Clinical Psych PhD program would have put me back a minimum of $250,000 in student loan debt and they made absolutely no effort to work with me on cost, even though I reached out to them numerous times (once visiting with my husband after being accepted and on my own dime) with numerous creative solutions. The fact that the program wanted me to travel to their campus from my home, in Kansas, once a month (10X/year) and that they would not go along with any of the ideas I had for relocating to Carpinteria as a way to buffer that stress of travel was more than disappointing. Also disappointing was the staff's position that I expected to be treated "special," when I wanted nothing more than to contribute to their school and contribute to new ways of treating the mentally ill in our current delivery system. The head of the Clinical Psychology program and I saw very clearly eye to eye on this subject. It seems that they might have been willing to go halfway to get a really good, forward thinking student. (My educational and working background is substantial.) Pacifica ONLY wanted me to stay in the Best Western as a roommate (with a stranger) when I "visited." They made it more than clear that they did not want me to think I could relocate. I found that odd. They defended that the Best Western accommodations that they offered were the only housing situation allowed to out of state students. Alternatively, I found several local housing situations that would have been more cost effective and not require me the travel out of the Denver Airport in the winter months. They would not hear of building the cost of a permanent residence (even though it was roughly equal to the cost of their Best Western) into my financial aid package. I walked away from Pacifica with the worst disappointment after investing well over $2000 to seek this outstanding opportunity in progressive psychology. The FAO and the admissions team did not seem to care at all that, due to the financial and travel burden of their requirements, I had to turn down their program. It seems to me that they are only out for those who can "pay through the nose" for their degrees. read more

The school MOTTO should be: TORTURING THE SOULS OF THE WORLD, instead of: Tending to the soul of the world. I've only attended the PhD clinical program at Pacifica Grad Institute. The only reason I'm giving this school a star is because Yelp makes me give some kind of star and because the location is beautiful. However, the location is a facade, or in Jungian terms, the persona (or mask) of the school, but its shadow (or the side Pacifica doesn't want others to see) is extremely dark and sinister. I have a supervisor who dealt with an instructor in the clinical program and after dealing with this specific instructor, my supervisor highly recommended that I leave the school! I, too, cannot fathom how this school is even WASC accredited. Charles J. ain't fibbing to y'all. And many of the students are like soul-less bodies with minds of Stepford robots. I sat in class with classmates that drained the life out of me! I'll write more soon because I can't think of many good things to say about this school. And I do wonder if Pacifica Graduate Institute pays to have negative reviews removed. I hope not because when I first chose to attend the school there were no reviews for it. I wish there were. I would've thought twice about attending. I now feel manipulated by the used car sales tactics during the interview process. They tried to convince me that they most likely will get APA accreditation (I hear this is unlikely since the APA has many complaints about the program), that they are a great school, etc, etc. A classmate said she doesn't think she'll be a psychotherapist because she thinks she isn't getting adequate training in how to be a therapist at Pacifica (she's not the only student to say that either).To that I say, I COULD NOT AGREE MORE and WHAT A WASTE OF MONEY AND TIME!!!!! If you don't believe me, go ahead, enroll, and see for yourself! Start pouring money into this cult like hell hole and wind up trying to find a job, especially since there will be so many other better educated individuals in psychology from better schools. read more

Currently in my 3rd quarter of my first year at Pacifica Graduate Institute. I'm am in the M.A. Counseling Psychology program. So far after adjusting to going to school again, I have to say going to Pacifica is a very special experience and I feel blessed to have this opportunity. They specialize in depth psychology focusing on archetypes and myths. Though we do go into depth about myths and archetypes, this quarter seems to really focus on the clinical aspect. I feel like its a great balance. Will post update upon graduation. read more

I am a graduate of the clinical doctoral program (PhD) in 2005. My experience at the time was a fairly good one: I had a great cohort (very important, can make or break your experience); I felt that 70% of the classes were fabulous and taught by passionate instructors; and I felt at the time that PGI would have my back as far as internship placement. Well, as it turns out, PGI could have done much more to prepare me clinically (it was a clinical degree after all), and there was virtually no help in securing internships (many internships had never heard of PGI). Also, there was, and still is, the overarching cloud of no APA accreditation that was promised ("Not if, but when") way back in 2004 and still has not occurred. The fact of no APA accreditation did not impress me at the time I was a student, and that was my fault. Had I known what it meant for my future career choices, I would have opted for an APA accredited graduate school. Not having APA accreditation has meant that I cannot apply for many paid internships, cannot work at the VA, Kaiser, and at CAPS, a university-based counseling agency, just to name a few. Looking back, I see that PGI faculty were completely misleading (perhaps they were misled themselves?) in representing the eventuality of APA accreditation at PGI. As for the "clinical" classes, they were heavily theoretical, not as practical in a clinical sense. I had come from a Depth Psychology MA program and was very well versed in archetypal and Jungian concepts and I really needed to learn more about applying them in a clinical setting. PGI faculty at the time were mostly dedicated and generous with their time and extremely knowledgeable in their topic areas. The PGI administration staff were generally helpful, but a few in key positions proved very difficult to work with and at times downright rude. Also PGI has rigid regulations about its residential program and if you live a certain distance from PGI, you are required to stay at the Best Western in Carpinteria, even if you would prefer to make other arrangements. As for preparation for licensing, there is virtually none. I am currently studying for the EPPP and am amazed at the many content areas where my knowledge base is minimal, and many concepts I never heard of in my graduate program. I am taking many months to study, months that I could already be licensed and making a decent income. It is not surprising to hear in other comments here that academic rigor PGI has decreased since my time there. As I said, only 70% of my instructors were worth the tuition, and I can only imagine the remaining 30% has but increased. I have long thought the most cushy job in the universe would be faculty member at PGI. All you really need is to publish a book (having the word "soul" in the title will seal your tenure), and then sit back, bloviate, and let the checks roll in. My advice to current and prospective PGI students is to consider if not having APA accreditation is okay with you when you will have about $200k in student loans to pay back. PGI is a beautiful place and there are dedicated people still there, but perhaps it is a place to visit for a workshop instead of putting a huge investment into with your future at stake. read more

Looking back at my previous review in 2013, I want to add my impression of Pacifica's effort to prepare students for licensing. Overall, Pacifica does an awful job of preparing students for the licensing exam. Because this large hurdle is way in the future for potential students it may not be considered when thinking about graduate school But know this, you cannot practice unless you are licensed and failing the exam can cost you time and money. The licensing exam touches on areas that are either ignored or barely mentioned at PGI. Sure there are test prep companies but they cost quite a bit of money. Just something else to consider. One last add, just a personal beef separate from the education. Their alumni relationship is terrible. The only contact I receive is in the form of asking me for donations! Their marketing is slick and attractive, but when I see brochures for seminars, etc. they are insanely overpriced especially considering the puny discounts given to active students and alumni. Sorry, I still feel like "product" as far as PGI is concerned. read more

My involvement in Pacifica's Jungian and Archetypal Psychology program has changed my life. Not only are the courses rigorous, the teachers knowledgable, and the students diverse, but the personal work that I'm doing in myself as I absorb the material, is amazing. I am finishing up my second year of course work, and preparing for my Masters exam. This is my second Masters, but since I want to teach college level psychology classes I need a Master's which matches my undergrad degree. Pacifica's hybrid program allows me to continue my education, and continue my current career as a teacher and continue my full-time work as a mother. If you are willing to take the "dare" and to live a fulfilling life, following your dreams, and the inner compass (guide, acorn of truth, psyche) than Pacifica awaits. read more

I have recently completed my MA in Engaged Humanities and the Creative Life with an Emphasis in Depth Psychology. This program and Pacifica Graduate Institute completely changed my life personally as well as academically. The coursework was rigorous and thoughtful and the accompanying creative work which was used to enhance the depth psychological teachings were unlike anything I could have experienced at any other college. The limited residency offering in this program was perfect for someone like myself and I was able to complete the program within two years while also working full-time and living in two different states. The faculty at Pacifica were amazing! And when the students had issues (which was hardly ever) it was taken care of by our Program Chair, Susan Rowland, immediately. If there is one main reason to come to Pacifica for the Humanities program, it would be to learn from Susan. She is a well respected Jungian Scholar and her knowledge of research through creative practice is unparalleled. Never would I have imaged that I could write a research paper and submit it for conferences-but with the help and guidance of Susan, it was an actual possibility. I am forever grateful to have come to Pacifica when I did to experience learning with my cohort both online and at residential. Prior to coming to Pacifica I received an undergraduate degree in organizational communication which focused on marketing and PR. I am currently working in nonprofit arts administration and the time spent on my MA has greatly influenced my professional work. Attending Pacifica helped me to grow as a person and in turn I have advanced in my work, and I am happy to share my knowledge of depth psychology with my fellow nonprofit workers. Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to Pacifica for recognizing students that have done national service and service abroad. Pacifica offers scholarships to alumni of both the AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. read more

I think Pacifica is a wonderful place to get an education. I got my Masters in Counseling Psychology and have been working as a psychotherapist for 8 years now. I feel very blessed for the opportunity to have learned my skills and be challenged to do my own work in order to help others. Currently, I am back at Pacifica in the MA/PhD Depth Psychology with Jungian and Archetypal Emphasis. I find it challenging and rewarding. I count my blessings that my instructors are leaders in their fields and believe that my cohort members are headed that way as well. Everyone brings their own unique experiences and understandings to the classroom making for lively discussion. While this degree is not focused on clinical work, I do believe it has enriched and enhanced my own practice which is in a community setting. This is no ordinary school and is worth spending the time to get to know to see if it is a good fit for you. read more

I am a second year in the Counseling Psychology program, and love it. I can't imagine being at any other school, Pacifica just feels like home. read more

This school is all about making money. I called today and was met with the most horrible "advisor" who didn't seem to want to talk to me because I was not just ready, willing and able to shell out over a hundred grand on a Ph.D. WHEN I already have a Masters degree. NONE of my credits will transfer. I was told "it's expensive to get a Ph.D." Really? Yes I know. But there is absolutely NO reason why one needs to shell out money for classes they have already taken and then given a really bad attitude about it because I didn't want to. This is the very first school that was like this. Most are really helpful and accommodating. Not this one. Really bad vibes all the way around. I am looking elsewhere. read more

I made the mistake of going there. It's a vanity school, like vanity publishing. Very over-priced and over-rated. They are in love with their own story and, oh boy, do they sell it well! If you're ready for grad school and have done enough reading to be passionate about psychoanalytic theory, go to a real institution of learning. I am so embarrassed I chose them and now don't have the funds to go to a real university. I was there after truly wanting to go there for a long time and was completely disappointed. They do have a great salad bar--best in the world. read more

The marketing is slick and attractive. The brochures and location are beautiful. The information days are designed to draw you in and make you think you belong there. Once you're hooked you are pressured to submit an extensive application file that is not in and of itself inappropriate but it does take an investment of time and energy. However, this is the point where it all goes bad. They act like admission and enrollment is there if you want it but in truth the admissions process is secretive and subjective. They don't tell you the criteria they use to grant interviews and that there is in fact, according to them, a high number of applicants and you aren't even guaranteed an interview. It's all dishonest and emotionally manipulative. The first red flag should have been the high turnover in faculty but humans have a way of ignoring red flags and seeing what we want to see. Second red flag is, wouldn't you expect a program that's all about mental health to be mentally healthy and treat people with respect? read more

I have to say I did not get on Yelp today to write a review of my school but felt I needed to after what I read. I am giving it five stars because of what I learned, not for other aspects. I have a BA, two MA's and now my PhD. I went to different schools for all of the degrees so I have a decent compass. I was accepted to UCLA and Pepperdine and turned them down to go to Pacifica. I think what people have to remember is that you are going into a program that fits YOU. It is not that all programs are the same. I have nothing against UCLA but their program was not for ME. I have spoke to many grad students who were unhappy with their program and that is just how it goes. Not everybody loves what they get into once they are there. Unfortunately, with 100,000+ on the line, it is not something you can just say "screw it". You have to stick with it. I had this happen in one of my MA programs, and even in my PhD when my advisor got sick and quit. Stuff happens and not everyone cares as much as you do when it is your life. As far as what I learned from this school, if you want theory, this is not your school. It does teach theory but that isn't the core of what they are trying to get across. You should be open to trying new ways to understand human behavior. When I left the school, I was a bit concerned I would not be able to use anything I learned..but after 7 years of doing therapy with all different cultures, I can say it has been amazing. Again, I have met people from this school that I can not believe they do therapy. They are horrible. BUT then I have met those people from tons of other schools as well. I have also had my issues with instructors and departments. That happens anywhere and believe me, ANY PhD program will get you to doubt everything you believe in because it is SO damn long and a hell of a lot of work. You have to really want this thing. I say that when you are doing your research for schools, get one that fits your style. If you don't, you are going to be unhappy. If you get unhappy in the middle, understand that dissatisfaction could happen at any school with any horrible teacher. If you are interested in learning cool new ways of looking at human behavior instead of the ol' here is the theory aspect, then this is a great place. I am happy that I went to this school and am happy that I did a Ph.D. read more

My experience at Pacifica has been great... I graduated with a master's from a traditional setting and am already licensed and work in private practice. I chose to attend Pacifica's clinical Ph.D program because I wanted something different from my Master's program. I honestly am not sure why the previous yelpers were so harsh on the school. My experience has been nothing but positive. The instructors are well published and the best in the field. One thing I did notice though is that this school does sometimes attract people who want something a little different, with that being said, some students (not the school) in my opinion need to work on some issues before attending. I feel like some students have a lot of unresolved issues, and if you are looking at studying depth psychology without having had your own stuff resolved, you will show emotionally unstable and externalize your issues. I recommend this school, however, make sure you deal with your own stuff before applying... read more

I am within weeks of graduating from Pacifica with an MA in the Engaged Humanities and the Creative Life. The program is a mixture of fine arts and humanities with an emphasis in Jungian psychology. My main areas of interest include science, epistemology, psychology, and music. My time at Pacifica is difficult to put into words. The kinds of relationships and experiences that one has at Pacifica does not happen in a traditional academic setting. The programs are intentionally psychodynamic and so, the deeply personal and transformative processes deeply influence the journey. If this is something that you're looking for, then Pacifica is an A+. The reviews regarding the APA accreditation law suit is by no means something I or anyone else for that matter can accurately comment on. I will say that, so far as I know, Pacifica has never officially stated that the clinical psychology program was or is APA accredited. Thus, the law suit is specifically focused on a student or students claiming that some member of the faculty promised that APA accreditation would likely happen or would happen. To enter into a PhD with the hopes in getting APA accreditation is foolish if the school does not ABSOLUTELY have APA. I think the law suit is a reflection on the naiveté of students. At any rate, speaking for my program, I have had a rich experience personally, in my relationships with others, with teachers, and with the invigorating material. My program was incredibly interdisciplinary and I will take this plurality into my PhD work and the world in general. From Jung and Campbell to Shakespeare and Dante to ecology and aesthetic philosophy, the program is a grab bag of multiplicity and inspiring riches. Lastly, I tend to have a severe intellect and so I will only criticize my program in not having enough emphasis on theory and critical thinking. Regardless, a rationalist like myself, learned an enormous amount from a de-emphasis on logos and an emphasis on emotion, connectivity, and eros. This has been life-changing. Other schools don't have this aspect or very little of it. For that reason, Pacifica, even considering a need for more critical mindedness, is doing something very very special and very very necessary. read more

I received my PhD in Depth Psychology from this school, and I couldn't be happier with what I received there: topnotch education, administrative support, personal attention, lasting fellowship. I realized going in that I needed to make the degree work for me instead of whining that it did not slot neatly into a pre-existing job category (I did not go into the counseling program, which does point at a specific career). Because of the degree I have been able to teach, get published, and advance my career overall. read more

I am about to begin my second year in the M.A/Ph.D. Community Psychology, Liberation Psychology, and Ecopsychology Specialization program. Thus far, I have gained ample knowledge and experience at Pacifica and would recommend anyone who wants to go beyond the classroom to apply. I recently completed my first summer fieldwork externship at a community center that facilitates the incorporation of immigrants. I was able to directly apply techniques and principles from my program and received mentorship along the way from my deeply engaged professors. Although the coursework is meticulous, I find every project worthwhile and applicable to my future in the psychology field. I also enjoy attending the occasional pubic program. I love that Pacifica offers these lectures as opportunities to expand your knowledge in other areas of study. My favorite was presented by professor Rae Johnson about becoming an embodied ally and unlearning privilege. I look forward to the coming semesters and cannot wait to expand upon my career in Community Psychology. read more

I am a student in the PhD Clinical program. Its a complete joke. The hardest thing about this school is dealing with the administration, who act like they are doing you a favor (not their jobs) if you ask them to make any effort on your behalf. Some of the faculty are responsive and helpful, some just are "too overworked" to bother with you. The only one who reliably returns calls is the business office, to take your money. Of which you will pay a lot if you go here. If you have a complaint they will treat you like you are a crazy person and try to make you feel bad for questioning how special and precious everything here is. The easiest thing is the classes. I basically just showed up and got A's. One class involved a slide show of crop circles and a magikal shamanic voyage. I am not even kidding. read more

I graduated from PGI in 2000 with my Ph.D. in clinical psychology. I earned my Ph.D. through very hard work, extensive reading, writing, interning and showing up. My professors were excellent clinicians, most (perhaps all) published and well-respected. It is definitely a matter of "fit". As a licensed clinician, I was looking to deepen my work and my own growth as a therapist and academic. I got that. The institute is not perfect, nor is it well-suited for everybody. I would recommend it to any mature clinician with an interest in depth psychology. read more

I am enrolled in the MA Counseling Psychology program. I am in the 3rd month of my first year, and so far the program has surpassed my expectations. The education is rigorous and thorough while balanced with a very humanistic learning model. Like the school of Depth Psychology itself (which is this program's emphasis) the education approaches its subject matter through both the lens of Logos and Mythos; through an appreciation of both the intellectual, cognitive, and measurable aspects of human understanding on the one hand, and of the imaginal, mythic, intuitive, holistic, and heart-centered aspects on the other.My classmates are inspiring people who i go home each month missing, and the teachers are role models who teach not only with their words but with their whole person. read more

To the point. Students and professors do not associate with any depth. Students and students identify superficially. If you can write a persuasive narrow focused essay, then the academics is easy. On site food and boarding are two-star with a five star price tag (the cafeteria lady is hot!) The realistic cost for a PGI PhD is 500K when you figure in lost wages, future salaries, and complete school costs. Read all the academic material yourself and call yourself a Depth Psychologist with a retirement annuity of 500K. The PhD is not a 4-hour a day program it is full time! Full-time no matter what they say! The most fundamental concept about a PGI PhD is that it is an intellectual experience and even if the mythology appeals to you, some of the culturally dated mind numbing readings will not be that fun to read and write essays about. Since the professors are narrow-spectrum-thinkers, you must own this kind of discernment to be happy at PGI. The 6-hour a month teaching schedule for each class is like a fashion show where the teachers walk upright, smile, but if you ask an in-depth question outside of the class material, they quickly come back into a well-rehearsed corporate legal counsel answer, which is suitable for a lap dog but not for a depth psychologist. read more