Selection for psychoanalytic education and clinical training is based on an applicant’s suitability, eligibility, and readiness.
A requirement for psychoanalytic education and clinical training is an established identity as a professional whose prior experience and conduct assures a firm and enduring commitment to responsible and ethical patient care. The assessment of suitability is based on an applicant’s possession of character traits and ethical values necessary for every psychoanalyst.
Applicants should demonstrate a capacity for self-observation, self-monitoring, and the ability to maintain appropriate interpersonal boundaries.
Applications for the 2026-2030 cohort will be accepted starting in the Spring of 2026.
Psychoanalytic Training Program Application Form
SPSI Psychoanalytic Training Programs are offered to:
- Physicians who have graduated from an accredited medical school and completed at least two years of psychiatric residency,
- Licensed doctoral-level clinical psychologists,
- Masters-level mental health professionals, including licensed clinical social workers, licensed mental health counselors, or licensed marriage and family therapists,
- Candidates in training at an accredited institute of the American Psychoanalytic Association,
- Individuals who appear to the Institute to be suitable for candidacy but are not automatically eligible by the formal criteria.
Non-mental health professionals
Non-mental health professionals from related fields of the Arts or Sciences may apply for Academic Associate status.
It is the official position of SPSI that an applicant is never excluded on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, race, ethnic background, or disability status.