Practicum Training
University Counseling Services (UCS) provides practicum training for doctoral level students in the Department of Psychology at the Virginia Commonwealth University. The primary goal of Practicum Seminar is the preparation of students as generalists for the practice of Counseling Psychology.
The UCS training model is developmental in nature, and the Practicum Seminar coordinates the practical learning experience for Counseling Psychology graduate students. Trainees are assisted in learning, applying, and refining their basic counseling skills, theoretical orientation, and conceptualization of clients through group supervision, case consultation, apprenticeship, instruction and peer feedback. Formal and informal feedback about the practicum experience and the individual trainee's development is solicited and exchanged throughout the year, and evaluative information is communicated to the Psychology Department.
Practicum students make a commitment for two consecutive semesters at UCS, which include, but are not limited to, participating in UCS Orientation, Practicum Seminar meetings, and attending UCS weekly team meetings. The hours indicated below do not include paperwork or additional training activities.
Average Activity Per Week
Direct Services
- Individual and couples therapy 5 hours
- Intakes 1 hour
Administrative Time
- Clinical team meeting 1.5 hours
Supervision
- Individual supervision 1 hour
Training
- Practicum seminar 2 hours
It should be noted that these numbers represent weekly averages and that the actual time spent in many activities increases or decreases with the ebb and flow of the academic year.
Limited opportunities may be available for practicum students to participate as group process observers at UCS. These opportunities will depend on the agency needs and training requirements for all trainees. UCS does not allow practicum students to see couples or co-lead groups (see Advanced Practicum).
Evaluation of practicum students involves completion of the UCS evaluation forms by individual supervisors. Practicum students will be provided verbal feedback about their progress at mid semester and written feedback at the end of both semesters. A copy of the written evaluations will be provided to the department. All evaluation forms will be placed in the practicum student's file.
To avoid dual relationship issues, UCS does not accept individuals for UCS graduate clinical training in our Practicum training program who have received clinical services at UCS.
Scheduling an Initial Appointment
Must come in person to either location:
Monroe Park Campus
University Student Commons, Room 238
907 Floyd Ave.
(804) 828-6200
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
MCV Campus
Grant House, B011
1008 East Clay St.
(804) 828-3964
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
After Hours Emergency
Please call VCU Police dispatcher:
(804) 828-1234 and ask to speak to a therapist.
