Our 2013-2014 training year is coming to a close. Seminars have ended, the halls are quieter on Mondays and Wednesdays- "training days"-and emotions run the gamut from jubilation, to sadness about so many endings and goodbyes, to excitement and apprehension about the future.  

While everybody in the Clinical Program feels exhausted at this time of year, "The Class of 2012," our nine graduating trainees, feel especially weary after two years of intensive training and clinical work. Our 2nd Year Trainees have completed: pre-doctoral internships, dissertations, post-masters and post-doctoral fellowships. Many are studying for licensing exams. All are taking their next steps, on their own, as developing professionals. Freedom from training is offset by the weight of ending their special two years together at AMC. They are saying goodbye to one another, to supervisors and teachers, and most importantly to the children and families who have been their clients, many throughout their entire two years with us.

We have had our annual end of year luncheon honoring the 1st and 2nd Year Trainees. The entire clinical staff  celebrated the 2nd Year Trainees' graduation, hooting and applauding as each one received a training diploma and a ceremonial Ann Martin Center coffee mug.  In the midst of these celebrations we recognize the multitude of feelings that accompany the end of a significant time of life. Some of our graduating trainees will stay on at the Center while others will be moving on.

We want to recognize and express our gratitude to each of our graduates and wish them the very best of everything in their next professional endeavors. Our very special thanks go out to:

Angie Branham, Bree McDaniel, Camala Kirchen, Corie Gould, Emily Odjaghian, Katrin Braune-Krikau, Livia Winnett, Mary Reyna and Sohi Lachini.

As our time with the nine 2nd Year Trainees ends and our nine 1st year trainees, "The Class of 2013," transition into their role as 2nd Year Trainees, yet another new training group is waiting in the wings. In September we will welcome a new class of nine trainees who will join our program and embark on their own two-year journey.