Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology

The Wisconsin School of Professional Psychology (WSPP) was established with a singular, vital mission: to directly address the critical demand for skilled clinical psychologists. Founded in 1978 by a dedicated collective of southeastern Wisconsin psychologists, WSPP emerged from a profound understanding of the profession's needs. Its founders sought to cultivate a focused, practitioner-led educational experience that existing post-secondary institutions were not adequately providing, ensuring that students would learn from those with active, real-world experience in the field.

From its very inception, WSPP committed to a practical, hands-on approach to psychology education. When the school welcomed its inaugural class of students in 1980, the faculty was entirely composed of practicing psychologists from Milwaukee. This unique model guarantees that students receive instruction rooted in current clinical relevance and acquire immediately applicable skills, meticulously preparing them to make a tangible and meaningful impact in the diverse realms of psychological practice.

Demonstrating a swift commitment to educational excellence, WSPP achieved significant milestones in its early years. In February 1987, the institution earned accreditation from both the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) and, crucially for a psychology-focused institution, the American Psychological Association (APA). These dual accreditations underscore WSPP's adherence to the highest national standards for professional psychological education. With a close-knit student body of approximately 75 individuals, WSPP fosters an intimate and supportive learning environment, where personalized attention and mentorship are fundamental to nurturing each student's journey toward becoming a successful professional psychologist.