Through supervised clinical experience, students begin hands-on training in a behavioral health/human service field. Skills focused upon may include intake interviewing, case management, assessment of client/consumer needs, intervention strategies to meet those needs, individual and group counseling, outreach activities, documentation, use of community referral and networking resources, collaboration with colleagues, inter-agency communication, and professional growth. Ninety hours of recorded clinical experience are required each quarter.
Prerequisites
Admission to BAS Behavioral Health Program and BH& 400 and 25 credits of completed upper-division program credits or instructor permission
1. Integrate theoretical classroom learning with experiential learning to implement professionalism and best practices related to behavioral health in a community agency setting
2. Outline the charting procedures and paperwork requirements for entry level positions at the practicum site
3. Demonstrate ability to relate effectively with clients in an ethical and culturally responsive manner
4. Demonstrate successful work relationships with agency administrators, supervisors, and colleagues in the practicum setting
5. Demonstrate professional work habits, including punctuality, reliability, maintenance of a clean appearance, dressing within the expected dress code, completion of assigned duties as well as receiving and implementing professional feedback
IO1: Communicate proficiently with clients, families, and members of the care team, utilizing suitable channels to enhance personal care, contribute to positive health outcomes, and instill optimism for recovery
IO3: Demonstrate ability to effectively function as a member of an interprofessional care team in coordinating services and resources
The goal of Practicum is to arrange an opportunity to apply classroom lessons, to practice relevant skills, to develop a professional network and to gain real-world experience that increases the student’s chance at advancing their career. Ideally this will include exposure to clients, a variety of staff, situations that are new to students, along with new responsibilities.