They learn about the impact that a disability has on the family system and about functional and dysfunctional processes within the family setting. They receive training in individual and group counseling as well as systemic community interventions. Additionally, they receive training in assessment, treatment planning, case management, crisis intervention, and how to effectively utilize support systems and community resources. The site selection will depend upon the student's concentration, e.g., Mental Health students will work in a mental health setting, students in the Substance Abuse concentration will work in settings in which the primary focus is on drug and alcohol treatment. More information about the internship is found on later in this handbook.
Interns have the opportunity to apply the theories and knowledge in a community setting.
The clinical experience is designed to further develop and demonstrate the student's competencies in all aspects of the professional counseling process. Supervision is provided by both the on-site supervisor and the university faculty supervisor. Students are required to submit and discuss representative materials that reflect the work they are doing with individual clients. At a minimum, the on-site supervisor provides both an interim and a final evaluation of the student's demonstrated knowledge, skills and abilities. You will become acquainted with your internship site's philosophy, mission and goals, its management style, and its unique culture.