What are the fieldwork requirements for the master’s program?
100-hour practicum; 6-8 hours per week – Spring Semester of Year 1 (40 direct service hours)
600-hour internship; 16-20 hours per week – Fall and Spring Semesters of Year 2 (240 direct service hours)
What preparation will students have before beginning the 100-hour placement?
In our program, students complete 61 credit hours over two years. Prior to beginning the first semester practical work, students will have completed one course in counseling theories and one “pre-practicum” course.
Is the program CACREP-accredited? Does the program meet educational requirements for Illinois?
The master’s program curriculum currently exceeds the current educational requirements for licensure in the State of Illinois. Modifications to the program requirements, including elements of clinical training are subject to change as required by accrediting bodies. We are currently drafting our initial application to the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC). Our program is NOT affiliated with The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP).
What are on-site clinical supervision/supervisor requirements for fieldwork?
Training and supervision with a licensed clinician at the Master’s level or higher; at least 1-hour individual supervision per week. Client sessions must be recorded for training purposes and/or observed live by a supervisor. We anticipate most training sites will offer other training opportunities (workshops, group supervision, outreach/prevention opportunities, staff meetings, etc.) For our departmental records, we request the supervisor submit a current CV.
Students may complete a fieldwork placement where supervisors are not licensed mental health clinicians but are otherwise appropriately credentialed in their area of expertise (e.g., in a career counseling agency.) Please know that this may have implications for LPC licensing as a mental health professional if they wish to pursue this after graduation.
What support do students get within the Counseling Psychology Program during their field placements?
Students enroll in a concurrent field placement seminar which meets weekly. Student and site supervisors are encouraged to consult with the CP faculty member dedicated to the Master’s program at any time regarding issues related to field placement.
How are students evaluated?
Formal student performance evaluations occur at regular intervals, i.e., mid-year and at the conclusion of the fieldwork experience. Our department will provide an evaluation form.
How are students assigned to a fieldwork placement?
Students are guided through the placement application process by the Clinical Fieldwork Coordinator and their academic advisor in the semester prior to enrollment. Application procedures will vary according to the preferences of the host site.
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