MSPP Advising

The advisor’s role at MSPP is viewed as important to a student’s development. One APA site visiting team referred to it as the “glue” that holds the integrative model together.

The role involves several key functions: guidance, evaluation, advocacy and mentorship. These functions are best accomplished within the context of an ongoing advisor/advisee relationship where tasks and boundaries are clearly defined by both parties. Such clarity serves to maximize a successful experience and avoid, or at least minimize, potential misunderstandings. It is easier to problem solve, or to help an advisee to plan and assess his/her MSPP program if the advisor has been a partner in the major decisions and processes of the advisee’s education.

It is therefore vital that the advisor take a proactive role in the formation and structuring of the relationship, and an active role in maintaining it in an official capacity until the student’s graduation (or until such time as the advisor’s role shifts according to program policy.) The responsibility for representing and maintaining the policies and procedures of the school in relation to advising rests with the advisor.

Difficulties, if there are any, likely will fall at the extremes. Too rigid an orientation does not allow for sufficient advisee input and decision making, while too laissez faire an approach leaves the student without adequate information, support and guidance.

Please use the links to the right for more detailed information on Advising at MSPP.

Updated 5/8/08