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Practicum

The University of Kentucky Counseling Center: Consultation and Psychological Services (UKCC) is a Practicum site for doctoral students in the Clinical and Counseling Psychology graduate programs at UK, the Clinical Psychology Psy.D. program at Eastern Kentucky University, and the Clinical Psychology Psy.D. program at Spalding University. There is typically a one academic year commitment for the practicum, which is 14-16 hrs per week. This includes six hours of clinical work, at least one hour for individual supervision, and participation in a one hour per week practicum seminar. Practicum students have the choice to participate in the group psychotherapy training program as part of their practica, in which case fewer individual clients are seen so that clinical work still equals six hours per week. Including the group training program in the practicum experience requires an additional 2 hours for group supervision of group therapy. 

Applications are accepted each spring semester for the following academic year. To apply a candidate must submit a current vita and cover letter expressing interest in the practicum to the UKCC Training Director, Dr. Di Sobel. Candidates will then be contacted to schedule an interview with the clinical staff. More information can be obtained from the Training Director: diane.sobel@uky.edu.

 

Policy about Ethical Standards regarding Self-Disclosure by Trainees and Supervisees

In accordance with the APA Ethical Standard 7.04, UKCC does not "require students or supervisees to disclose personal information in course- or program-related activities, either orally or in writing, regarding sexual history, history of abuse and neglect, psychological treatment, and relationships with parents, peers, and spouses or significant others except if (1) the program or training facility has clearly identified this requirement in its admissions and program materials or (2) the information is necessary to evaluate or obtain assistance for students whose personal problems could reasonably be judged to be preventing them from performing their training- or professionally related activities in a competent manner or posing a threat to the students or others."

The UKCC does not require trainees to disclose personal information as defined above by the APA.

The counseling center and training program culture is one in which staff and trainees typically reflect on their personal responses as is congruent with personal and professional growth with the ultimate goal of better serving clients. These responses and reflections may come from countertransference, resistances to exploring new theoretical orientations and techniques, or from other issues that might arise in the normal development of professional skills and/or professional identity. The UKCC training program works to create an environment of trust and support with colleagues and supervisors who can facilitate safe explorations. We value openness to constructive feedback and offer a good fit for trainees who share that value.

 

Group Psychotherapy Training Program

We also have a specialized group psychotherapy training program which is based on the apprentice model. In the group program a psychology doctoral student starts as a process observer in one of the interpersonal groups. The process observer is a silent member of the group taking notes on the process of the group. After observing for a semester the student may then co-lead one of the groups. The group program requires 2 hours a week for group leadership, and 1½ hours a week for group supervision for both group leaders and process observers. Doctoral students may integrate the group training program into an official practicum at UKCC or may elect to participate only in the group program. Interested students should contact Nathan Miles, Ph.D. at (859) 257-8701.

 

On-Call Counselor Positions

The On-Call Counselor (OCC) is a paid position through the Office of Residence Life open to doctoral students in counseling or clinical psychology. There are two OCC positions available each year. OCC's are trained and supervised by the professional staff of the Counseling Center. The OCC's provide consultation and crisis intervention for the residence halls during hours the Counseling Center is closed (5:00 PM to 8:00 AM Monday through Friday and 24 hours on Saturday and Sunday). OCC's carry a cell phone during times they are on call, which rotates between the two positions. Only RA's and Hall Directors have access to the beeper.

The responsibilities of the position are as follows:

  • Be "on call" (carry a cell phone) to assist the Residence Life staff and Counseling Center personnel with emergency situations, to include situations that are potentially life threatening or require hospitalization.
  • Provide consultation to the Hall Directors and Resident Advisors regarding student development issues and problems of group living.
  • Provide limited "drop-in" counseling services, crisis intervention and referrals to students living in residence halls and undergraduate apartments.
  • Refer students to the University Counseling Center for extended individual help or to another campus resource such as the Student Health Service or other agencies.
  • Provide and/or schedule outreach activities such as workshops on eating disorders, alcohol and substance abuse, interpersonal relationships, study skills, etc.
  • Report to the Director of the Counseling Center for clinical supervision. Serve as the "on-the-spot" liaison from the Counseling Center to the residence halls. Will be supervised by a licensed member of the Counseling Center staff and will be required to attend weekly or biweekly supervisory meetings.
  • Participate in all applicable, Residence Life staff training experiences and occasional monthly staff meetings. Meet monthly with Residence Life staff supervisor.

Applications for the OCC position(s) are accepted in mid spring. To apply, submit a current vita and cover letter expressing interest in the OCC position to the UKCC Staff member (Dr. Jamie Hopkins) and the Associate Director of the Office of Residence Life. Candidates will then be contacted to schedule an interview with the clinical staff. More information can be obtained from Dr. Hopkins at (859) 257-8701.