Our Philosophy

CONCEPT delivers advanced training for mental health professionals that is customized to your learning needs and style. High caseloads, limited resources, limited time and budgets, we understand the everyday barriers to achieving the level of professional development you need to stay compliant and maintain competence. We make training for developing skills, following best practices and improving credibility accessible and individualized to fit every schedule so you can take your practice to the next level.

  • Who We Are

    We are CONCEPT, Palo Alto University’s Division of Continuing & Professional Studies, a not-for-profit educational institution offering world-class continuing education programs for individuals and groups.

  • What We Do

    We transform mental health generalists into specialists through meaningful courses from leading subject matter experts. Our innovative, high-quality, and flexible post-graduate training is offered through an easy-to-use, learner-centric platform or in-person.

  • Why We Do It

    We exist to elevate the level of practice and professional fulfillment for mental health professionals, as a means of boosting confidence, improving lives, communities, and society.


Since 2009 CONCEPT has been equipping mental health professionals with the education and specialized skills to map their paths for continuing success. By combining our strengths with Palo Alto University’s faculty expertise and academic leadership, we custom-design online and in-person, post-graduate training for mental health and allied professionals — connecting you directly with world-class experts on relevant, specialty topics. We continually expand the breadth and depth of our course offerings and partnerships so we can help you practice lifelong excellence.

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Learning Experience

Daljit Kang, Criminal Intelligence Analyst

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Dr. Stephen D. Hart

Expert Instructor, CONCEPT Continuing & Professional Studies

Together we're changing the world.

At Palo Alto University, we’ve earned our reputation as a leading educator of psychologists and counselors. Psychology and counseling is all we do. That focus creates a culture you won’t find at schools offering a wider range of academic programs. Our students are part of a culturally-conscious community that reflects today’s society, which fosters deeper understanding and preparation to meet the needs of diverse populations. Our programs, rigorous research, and clinical practice opportunities prepare students to make an immediate difference in the lives of those they serve. Students are personally guided by engaged faculty who make significant contributions to their fields and thrive as teachers and mentors. We address pressing and emerging issues that are affecting communities right now. When you put all of this together, it creates a legacy of professionals who are confident, competent, and compassionate.

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