The training experience includes the supervised practice of intake evaluations, individual psychotherapy, career assessments and counseling, group therapy, crisis intervention, and consultation and outreach to the university community. Other opportunities include alcohol and drug assessment and treatment, training and consultation with peer counselors, and the development of preventive programs and interventions for issues or populations of the intern's own interest. Given the diverse composition of the student population and the interests of the staff, interns necessarily work utilizing a multicultural perspective. Psychotherapy is primarily individual, although some exposure to couples therapy is available. The Center's orientation is toward briefer therapy, but interns have the opportunity to conduct longer-term therapy with a few cases.
Interns provide regularly scheduled intake evaluations each week.
Intakes form the basis for establishment of rapport, clarification of client needs and goals, behavioral observation, diagnostic assessment, and treatment planning. The Counseling Center offers a variety of therapy groups and specific population-oriented support groups. Interns are expected to co-lead at least one of these groups during the year. Clinical supervision is provided by the staff co-leader. Interns are also encouraged to develop groups in their own areas of interest with staff supervision.