Graduate Practicum

Practicum Training in Counseling and Clinical Psychology

Cook Counseling Center offers a two semester graduate practicum program, providing an excellent opportunity for clinical experience within a university counseling center and to gain skill in individual and group therapy with a college population. These are unpaid, training positions for students who are currently enrolled in graduate academic programs for psychology, counseling, or social work. 

The primary focus of practicum at Cook Counseling Center is on the development of clinical skills, however, there may be opportunity to gain experience in other aspects of college counseling practice, such as outreach. Practicum graduate students are on-site for 12-20 hours per week, though hour requirements may vary among academic departments.

To meet the training objectives, practicum trainees will see 8 to 10 individual clients per week (master’s level trainees may have a larger time commitment and caseload expectation as required by their academic departments) and co-facilitate one therapy group per semester. Optional activities may include opportunities for consultation and outreach with student groups or faculty. Participation in weekly Supervision of Groups is strongly encouraged. Practicum students receive one hour of individual supervision per week with a doctoral psychology intern, as well as two hours per week of group cohort supervision co-led by a licensed clinical psychologist and another clinician. Supervision sessions primarily consist of reviewing therapy video recordings and case conferencing of clients, as well as relevant discussion of theoretical and professional issues.

Application Process

Required Materials:

• Practicum Application Forms – included in the packet is the Practicum Readiness form that must be completed by a previous clinical supervisor to be returned to the applicant in a sealed envelope or sent directly to Cook Counseling Center
• Current curriculum vitae
• Letter of interest/personal statement – include professional goals

The preferred due date for this application is March 1 to allow time for review and interview prior to the end of the spring semester. However, there is no official deadline – applicants will be considered until all positions are filled.