Student Profile - Matthew Hutnyan

Matthew Hutnyan

Mentor: Shawn M. McClintock, Ph.D., M.S.C.S.
Undergraduate Degree: Psychology
Undergraduate Institution: Southern Methodist University
Hometown: Mission Viejo, CA

Research Topic: Neurocognitive Aspects of Serious Mental Illness

Tell us about your research project and its relevance to human health.

My dissertation research aims to elucidate mechanisms of interpersonal functioning among individuals across the adult lifespan with and without depression. Specifically, I am investigating the relationship between emotionally-laden cognitive processes, such as facial emotion recognition, and interpersonal functioning, such as quality of social relationships. By better understanding the connection between people's cognitive abilities and their interpersonal functioning, we may be better able to promote healthy social living and intervene more effectively when people experience mental health and relational challenges.

Why did you choose to come to UT Southwestern for graduate school?

UT Southwestern is a world-class research institution and a global leader in clinical care. It is rare to receive clinical psychology graduate training in a medical setting, and there are many advantages. Opportunities for multidisciplinary collaboration, involvement in cutting edge research, and exposure to complex cases abound. As I explored options for my doctoral training, it was readily apparent to me that the UT Southwestern Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program offered a collaborative learning environment and top-tier clinical training, and that the faculty and students were collegial.

In your opinion, what makes your specific program one of the top in the country?

Among clinical psychology doctoral programs, UT Southwestern is renowned for excellent clinical training, including in my chosen specialty of clinical neuropsychology. Students and trainees in the program gain experience in a wide variety of settings across the DFW metroplex working with multidisciplinary teams to care for a diversity of patients from across the region. The exclusively affiliated APA-accredited doctoral internship allows for streamlined training, and the accelerated pace of the program results in joining the workforce sooner than typical. Graduates of the Doctoral Program consistently go on to excellent post-doctoral training programs and faculty positions at academic medical centers across the nation, citing their experiences at UT Southwestern as formative to their success.

What do you love about your program or why should a prospective student decide to get their PhD here?

In addition to excellent clinical and research training, the climate of the program is supportive and collaborative. Students, trainees, faculty, and staff are committed to your success, and that is felt throughout the four years. Ultimately, it is the unique aspects of our program – the medical center setting, cohort model, accelerated pace, captured internship, and diverse clinical placements – that make it an ideal doctoral program for individuals seeking to accelerate their careers in clinical psychology.

– Matthew Hutnyan