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About Palo Alto University
Palo Alto University (PAU), a private, non-profit university located in the heart of Northern California’s Silicon Valley, is dedicated to addressing pressing and emerging issues and specializing in mental and behavioral health sciences to equitably meet the needs of today’s diverse communities.
The History of PAU
PAU was founded in 1975 as the Pacific Graduate School of Psychology (PGSP), an independent, professional school and re-incorporated as Palo Alto University in August 2009. Continuously accredited since 1986 by WASC, PAU’s Doctoral programs in psychology are accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and its Master’s in counseling programs by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
PAU in the Community
PAU has many collaborative partnerships with community organizations and institutions, including Stanford School of Medicine, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other mental health care organizations.
PAU's teaching clinics deliver low-cost mental health services to the local community while also providing valuable, supervised training to PAU graduate students. In addition, PAU sponsors several academic research centers devoted to child mental health, evidence-based care for LGBTQ clients, excellence in diversity and community care, and internet-based global healthcare.
Latest News
The Power of Giving: PAU Innovart Research Grant Propels Student Research Momentum
When Maggie Tsai enrolled in Palo Alto University’s Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, she was in the midst of a personal reinvention. A…
Community Message | President Dey's First Week at PAU
President Dey reflects on his first week at PAU, highlighting the welcoming community, design thinking-inspired empathy tour, and his commitment to the…
A Commencement to Remember: Launching a Lifetime of Leadership and Service
Celebrating the achievements of Palo Alto University’s Class of 2025 at their memorable commencement ceremony, highlighting leadership, dedication, and…
Celebrating Staff Contributions and Milestones
Celebrating PAU staff contributions, milestones, and excellence with heartfelt recognition and awards during our annual Staff Appreciation Celebration.
Honoring Student Excellence at the 2025 PAU Stars Awards
PAU honors outstanding students at the 2025 Stars Awards, celebrating excellence in academics, service, and leadership in a night of recognition and…
Honoring Faculty Impact and Leadership: 2025 Faculty Distinction Awards
Honoring PAU faculty's exceptional contributions in teaching, research, and service at the 2025 Faculty Distinction Awards.
A Night at the Ballpark with the PAU Community
PAU community enjoys a memorable night at Oracle Park, fostering connections and celebrating lifelong relationships during a Giants vs. Braves game.
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Gratitude for What Was and What Will Be - Maureen's Farewell Message
President Maureen O’Connor bids farewell to PAU, reflecting on leadership and sharing a poem to inspire new beginnings under Dr. Farouk Dey’s leadership.
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President Maureen O'Connor to Address the Graduating Class of 2025
President Maureen O'Connor to deliver 2025 Commencement address, marking the end of her impactful tenure at Palo Alto University.
A Legacy Rooted in Teaching and Learning
Celebrating nine years at PAU, President reflects on the growth of the Center for Educational Excellence and its future through a new endowment campaign.
Lessons Learned from PAU’s 2025 Alumni Panel
Insights from PAU’s 2025 Alumni Panel on leadership, personal growth, and overcoming challenges in the mental health field. Learn from Dr. Crockett, Madison…
PAU @ WPA Convention 2025: Advancing Mental Health Research
PAU faculty and students share groundbreaking mental health research at WPA 2025, showcasing their commitment to advancing mental and behavioral health science.
Connection, Confidence, and Clinical Growth: MS Students Gather In-Person for PAU’s Clinical Intensi...
PAU's Clinical Intensive Week fosters clinical skills, community, and confidence among MS Psychology students through immersive, hands-on learning and…
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Monthly Message from President O’Connor - May 2025
Transition and resilience at Palo Alto University: President O’Connor discusses leadership changes, the onboarding of Dr. Farouk Dey, and the search for a new…
Monthly Message from President O’Connor - April 2025
Palo Alto University prepares for a leadership transition, reflecting on its rich history and looking forward to a promising future under incoming President…
Dr. Farouk Dey Appointed as President of Palo Alto University
Farouk Dey appointed as President of Palo Alto University, bringing innovation and strategic growth to elevate PAU's impact in psychology and behavioral health…
Double Impact: Nicole Brown's Dual Legacy as PAU Alumna and Staff Leader
Nicole Brown's inspiring journey at PAU highlights resilience, mentorship, and advocacy for mental health, impacting students, staff, and the broader community.
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Celebrating Women Leaders in Mental & Behavioral Health at PAU
Celebrating the achievements of women leaders in mental and behavioral health at PAU, showcasing their inspiring journeys, groundbreaking work, and…
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Stronger Together: How Professional Organizations Help Shape Mental Health Policy
Discover how professional organizations empower mental health advocacy, enabling collective action to shape policies and create meaningful change for…
Spotlighting Leaders Advancing Black Excellence at PAU
Celebrating leaders advancing Black excellence at PAU through education, research, and advocacy, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
