MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING PROGRAM

Transcription

1 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 1 t MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING PROGRAM INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK for students entering the program Fall 2015 TOURO COLLEGE SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES Department of Behavioral Science 65 Broadway New York, NY 1001 Phone: (212) Fax: (212)

2 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK i Contents INTRODUCTION... 1 INTERNSHIP CHECKLIST... 2 COUNSELING INTERNSHIP... 3 INTERNSHIP OBJECTIVES... 3 THE PLAYERS... 4 THE INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE... 5 PREPARATION... 6 APPLICATION TO ENROLL IN INTERNSHIP... 6 Preparing:... 6 Eligibility for Internship Application... 6 The Application Form... 7 SITE SELECTION... 7 Considerations for Choosing Your Internship Site... 7 Contacting the Site... 8 Interviewing a Site... 8 Site Orientation and Integration... 8 Place of Employment as Internship Site... 8 Problems with Placement... 9 LIABILITY INSURANCE... 9 INTERNSHIP ACTIVITIES General Internship Activities INTERNSHIP HOURS Minimum Requirements Internship Hours Continuing Hours after End of Semester EXPECTATIONS FOR INTERNS General Expectations SUMMARY OF INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS Taping Requirements Weekly Reflection Write-ups INTERNSHIP PAPERWORK EXPECTATIONS OF FACULTY SUPERVISOR/FIELD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR 14

3 EXPECTATIONS OF SITE SUPERVISORS Site Supervisor Qualifications Site Related Training Consultation and Supervision Opportunities Integration with Site Staff and Other Professionals Evaluations of Student Performance Problems with Placement PROFESSIONAL CONSIDERATIONS Personal Challenges Supervision and Feedback Licensure/Certification Requirements CODE OF ETHICS AND STANDARDS OF PRACTICE Minimum Ethical Obligations PROFESSIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT EMERGENCY PROCEDURES SELF-CARE HELPFUL HINTS APPENDICIES... 20

4 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 1 INTRODUCTION The purpose of this handbook is to provide information regarding preparing for and completing the internship that is required for graduation from the Touro Mental Health Counseling program. Internship is a critical component of your graduate studies and is direct preparation for your professional career as a Mental Health Counselor. You will need to meet the goals set forth by both your site supervisor and you faculty supervisor to fulfill the requirements of your internship. Student interns will be expected to follow the policies and procedures set forth by this handbook, the School of Health Sciences and the American Counseling Association (ACA) professional code of ethics. You are encouraged to read this handbook carefully and raise any concerns and/or questions immediately.

5 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 2 INTERNSHIP CHECKLIST Complete for each placement/semester Date Completed Task Submit Application to Enroll in Internship Meet with Field Placement Coordinator Prepare for internship placement interviews updated CV, writing sample, questions Interview sites and make selection Complete and submit Internship Placement Agreement Complete (and submit) Internship goals with Site Supervisor Submit Site Supervisor Agreement Submit evidence of liability insurance to Site Supervisor Complete and submit weekly Internship Reflection write-ups Submit Weekly Hours Log Sheets. Submit Site Supervisor Midterm Evaluation of Student Performance Student submit midterm Self-Evaluation Complete clinical interaction recordings for course activities Submit Semester Log Sheet and Completion form Submit Site Supervisor End of Semester Evaluation Submit Student Evaluations of Field Site/Supervisor Student submit end of semester Self-Evaluation Submit Individual/Triadic Supervision log sheet Submit Group Supervision log sheet Submit Completion of Internship form

6 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 3 COUNSELING INTERNSHIP Internship is the final part of your instruction in the Touro Mental Health Counseling (MHC) program. This is the time that students have the chance to apply their learning under the auspices of supervised professional and within a professional environment. Across 2-semesters, students will engage in fieldwork that includes a variety of direct and indirectly clinical experiences (CACREP: Section 3). This is intended to be a culmination of the education you have received during your graduate counseling program. Internship placement must be sites in which mental health counseling occurs and where students have an opportunity to engage in the professional activities of a mental health counselor; including, but not limited to: individual counseling, group counseling, couples/family counseling, intake interviewing, assessment, documentation, outreach, consultation, psychoeducational activities, staff meetings, workshops, and supervision. Student should have access to: A private setting for practice and adequate access to technology to perform responsibilities Adequate and appropriate access to supervision and support Opportunities to lead or co-lead a group or psychoeducational activity. Opportunities and technology needed to observe and receive supervision of practice. Procedures that ensure that the client s confidentiality and legal rights are protected. A total of 600 documented clock hours (minimum) of internship experience is required. INTERNSHIP OBJECTIVES As an intern, you will engage in professional work experiences under the supervision of your course instructor (Faculty Supervisor) and a professional in the field (Site Supervisor). You should expect to engage clients from diverse populations, genders, age groups, and lifestyles. Below are general objectives for you internship: Expand and apply skills developed in other courses. Relate theory to practice. Evaluate professional growth and career goals. Seek consultation with appropriate individuals. Gain increased understanding of the relationship of administrative functions to the counselor role. Acquire greater knowledge of and experience in the application of a variety of intervention strategies. Gain understanding of multicultural and diversity issues and needs. Expand knowledge and application of technology in counseling and client care. Learn and apply compliance requirements in professional practice. Integrate best practices approaches to clinical and professional practice. Balance professional requirements with client clinical needs. Develop appropriate professional language and behaviors. Function as a professional counselor at an approved site.

7 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 4 THE PLAYERS There are five major players in the completion of your internship experience: you, the Intern; the Placement Site; the Placement Coordinator; the Site Supervisor; and the Faculty Supervisor. Each has differing responsibilities in facilitating a successful experience. The following explains each of these players, Intern: This is you, the student, who is enrolled in either MNH 770 or MNH771, and engaged in an approved and supervised professional practice field placement. Interns must complete all the required paperwork and clock-hours of experience to receive a grade for their internship. This is outlined in more detail further below. Placement/fieldwork Site: This is the organization or agency in which the intern s professional practice experience will take place. This site must be approved by either the Field Placement Coordinator or one of the program Directors. Students will be expected to maintain a single placement across both semesters; though they may wish an additional placement if one will be unable to provide the required hours. Special provisions will be allowed on a case to case basis. Placement Coordinator: This is the individual designated by the program to assist students in making connections to their fieldwork activities. This individual is not responsible for securing students with a placement, but they will assist interns with the internship process. Responsibilities Assists will placement connections, paperwork requirements and mediation, Provide advisement and orientation for student prior to and during placement, Receive status of placement from counseling intern prior to the start of the semester. Monitor progress of counseling intern during the practicum/internship experience. Maintain monthly communication with site supervisors. Make on-site visits when needed. Initiate resolution of any problem occurring on-site. Site Supervisor: This is the individual identified by the placement site to provide supervision to the intern. Site Supervisors must be a licensed professional working in the mental health field for at least 3-years. Acceptable supervisor licenses include: Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC), Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), licensed psychologists (school psychologists are not acceptable), a Physician (MD), and Nurse Practitioner (NPP). A Site Supervisor must be willing to sign an agreement attesting to their ability to provide the identified supervisory activities. Responsibilities Provides orientation to the counseling intern; including all site rules, regulations and safe procedures. Ensures the intern has adequate space and technology to fully participate in the placement experience. Ensures that the student has adequate opportunities to fully participate in clinical counseling experiences. Provides opportunities for the intern to conduct counseling activities that can be audio and/or videotaped (with consent) to promote intern learning. Will complete mid semester and end of semester assessment of intern progress. Helps establish intern goals and facilitate opportunities for those goals to be met. Provides individual/triadic weekly 1-hour in-person supervision to the intern.

8 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 5 Faculty Supervisor: This individual is the instructor of the required Internship courses MNH 770 and MNH 77, the campus based part of the internship experience. Responsibilities Provides group supervision of counseling interns. Monitors progress of counseling intern during their experience. Reviews counseling intern s session tapes. Provides assignments and experiences to facilitate intern learning and graduation readiness. THE INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE Overview Students must complete a total of 600 clock hours of supervised professional practice in an approved placement site, across 2 consecutive semesters. At least 245 clock hours of direct service must be documented Interns must have the opportunity to lead/co-lead a counseling or psychoeducational group (if not completed during practicum). Weekly on-site supervision (individual and/or triadic), of no less than 1-hour per week, is required. This may be provided by (1) the site supervisor, (2) counselor education program faculty, or (3) a student supervisor who is under the supervision of a counselor education program faculty member (CACREP, p.14) An average of 1½ hours per week of group supervision provided on a regular schedule throughout the internship and mediated by the Faculty Supervisor. Professional opportunities to conduct of direct and indirect service that provides the intern with learning opportunities within diverse communities. Professional opportunities that provide interns with an opportunity to audio/video record client interactions (with client consent) for use in programmatic supervision. Assessment of student progress conducted during the middle and at the end of each semester their internship experience. Student assessment of their supervision and site experiences. On-going self-assessment, experience journaling, case presentations and supervision reflection submitted to the faculty supervisor. Submission of required documentation and tracking of clinical experience.

9 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 6 PREPARATION APPLICATION TO ENROLL IN INTERNSHIP You must be well versed in the guidelines for internship as outlined in this handbook. Failure to follow these guidelines completely may result in a delay or inability to enroll in internship. Preparing: You are encouraged to begin preparing for their internship placement no less than 2-s (including summer) before the semester you will be enrolling in internship. To prepare for placement, you should: Be fully familiar with this handbook Schedule a meeting with the Field Placement Coordinator to review the paperwork needed and assist in focusing an appropriate placement opportunity. Complete the Application for Internship Enrollment form. Ensure that you have compiled all paperwork needed for placement interviews Eligibility for Internship Application Completion of at least 42 credits by the end of the semester prior to beginning internship. Completed courses must include: o MNH 600: Foundations of MHC & Consultation o MNH 611: Essentials of Measurement, Evaluation & Research Analysis o MNH 620: Developmental Psychology o MNH 630: Counseling I: Theories & Practices - Cognitive & Behavioral Approaches o MNH 632: Counseling II: Theories & Practices - Psychodynamic & related approaches o MNH 638: Principles of Addiction Counseling o MNH 640: Legal, Ethical and Professional Orientation in Mental Health Counseling o MNH 681: Psychopathology o MNH 691: Counseling the Culturally Diverse: Theory & Practice o MNH 702: Case Conceptualization, Documentation and Practicum No less that a grade of B in the following classes: o MNH 600: Foundations of MHC & Consultation o MNH 630: Counseling I: Theories & Practices - Cognitive & Behavioral Approaches o MNH 632: Counseling II: Theories & Practices - Psychodynamic & related approaches o MNH 640: Legal, Ethical and Professional Orientation in Mental Health Counseling o MNH 681: Psychopathology o MNH 702: Case Conceptualization, Documentation and Practicum Maintained no less than a 3.0 GPA No more than one C within the program Has successfully achieved a passing score (83% or higher) on both Comprehensive Exams #1 and #2.

10 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 7 The Application Form The Application to Enroll in Internship form is included at the end of the handbook. This form must be completed by the student, reviewed and approved by either the Field Placement Coordinator, one Director of the program or Faculty Advisor, before applying for internship placements. Applications must be complete and include all required accompanying documentation to be considered for consideration. SITE SELECTION Identifying and selecting your internship site is one of the most important steps in the development of your counseling skills and the successful completion of your clinical internship experience. While it can be difficult to secure a placement that is directly relevant to your professional interests, your Faculty Supervisor or Field Placement Coordinator will assist with making each placement as meaningful as possible. Plan to be proactive in finding an internship. You will need to be prepared to be flexible with your time and expectations, educate agencies regarding your qualification as a Mental Health Counselor, and be willing to test your boundaries. Aim for a site placement that represents a good fit with your personal and professional needs, interests, program requirements, and licensure/certification requirements. Considerations for Choosing Your Internship Site Your professional goals, such as the specific area of professional counseling in which you may want to specialize, the population with which you want to work and the type of setting you want. The population served, such as individual clients, groups, as well as diversity interests. Issues confronted, such as child and adolescent concerns; women s issues; alcohol and drug abuse; sexual abuse; marriage and family issues; transitional and developmental concerns; chronic mental illness; etc. Training opportunities, such as play therapy, consultation skills, abuse counseling, family/parent work, workshop facilitation, and other areas in which you would like further training. Personal Challenge, explore opportunities that will challenge your professional and personal growth. Services performed, such as intake, group work, consultation, psychoeducation, case management, etc. Geographic location, such as somewhere close to your home, an area that offers diversity or a place you d like to consider living in the future. Remember, your internship is a much safer place to learn your profession; you have considerably more supervision and support than you might in you post-graduation career. PLEASE NOTE: A PRIVATE PRACTICE SETTING WILL NOT BE APPROVED AS AN INERNSHIP SITE. A GROUP PRACTICE WILL ONLY BE CONSIDERED IF SUPERVISORY STAFF IS AVAILABLE ON-SITE AT TIME OF INTERN S HOURS.

11 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 8 Contacting the Site Once you have decided on a good fit placement site, contact the site for further information on how to apply for a placement. Reaching out to human resources and volunteer contacts at any given agency is an excellent entrance point. Interviewing a Site You will probably want to interview with multiple potential internship sites to determine which offers the best fit with you, your clinical style, your educational goals and expectations, and your career goals. For each site. You will want to be ready with the following information: An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV like a resume) A handout explaining the internship expectations for you the supervisor and the site A writing sample A list of questions A preliminary list interests and personal goals for the internship experience A clear understand of this handbook Site Orientation and Integration Once you have identified and secured an internship placement site, you should be proactive in working with your Site Supervisor and ensuring your own professional needs can be and are being met. Some sites are more formal in their internship support services than others. Be prepared to state your needs with your Site Supervisor and engage their support during your internship experience. You should address any concerns regarding your on-site supervision with your Faculty Supervisor, Faculty Advisor or Field Placement Coordinator immediately. If possible, request a site orientation before the semester begins so you can immediately start your internship experience. Being familiar with the site s policies and procedures, the staff, and other details of the site will give you a significant advantage in making the most of your internship experience. You will be required to share information regarding your site orientation with your peers during your Internship Course meetings. So be prepared and pay attention. Place of Employment as Internship Site Places of employment may be used for Internship Placement with approval of both the Field Placement Coordinator and one of the Directors of the Program. While it is not always recommended, your internship may be completed at your place of employment if clear boundaries between employment and internship can be maintained. You should address the following issues before pursuing such a placement: 1. Ensure site can provide appropriate professional experiences 2. Ensure the site conducts activities/services appropriately geared toward the mental health field. 3. Ensure site can provide a qualified Supervisor and adequate time for supervision 4. Student must obtain approval for this dual role from their work supervisor and another representative of the agency/organization (must include a clear outline of how internship experiences will be obtained)

12 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 9 For the place of employment option to be approved, the student must submit the Employment Site as Internship Placement request. Speak to the Field Placement Coordinator for more information. Problems with Placement Periodically problems arise within a placement site. You are encouraged to seek support from the Field Placement Coordinator and/or Faculty Supervisor to mediate any placement concerns. In most cases, you will be guided in the most appropriate manner to self-advocate and self-resolve on-site issues; however, if needed, faculty will be more directly involved. In all cases, efforts will be made to maintain you at your current placement site. If issues arise that cannot be resolved within the placement site, the faculty will work with you to find an alternative arrangement in which to complete your internship hours, as warranted by the situation. LIABILITY INSURANCE As part of the internship, you must have verification of professional liability insurance coverage. As a student in the Touro College Mental Health Counseling program, you have been covered by a College purchased group coverage since your first enrolled semester. You will be provided a copy of this group insurance coverage for the year of your internship after you complete you application. This group coverage is basic and does not directly list your name. Students are encouraged to consider an additional plan, such as the one offered student members of the American Counseling Association. These plans are offered free or at an extreme discount when students complete the association s membership. American Counseling Association Phone: x284 We do not make recommendations for the amount of liability coverage you should obtain. When making that decision, consider your personal and professional circumstances and risks

13 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 10 INTERNSHIP ACTIVITIES There are general on-site activities in which all internship students are expected to participate. These include, but are not limited to: General Internship Activities Individual counseling (at least 4-indivivudal clients across internship experience) Lead or co-lead a counseling group (must have opportunity of not met during practicum) Family or couples counseling if available Supervision, individual and group Consultation with site staff, community resources, family, and others as appropriate Assessment, using appropriate assessment instruments Available continuing education opportunities, such as workshops, conferences, and meetings related to the internship Timely completion of paperwork appropriate to the internship setting Other internship activities and experiences INTERNSHIP HOURS Minimum Requirements Total required Hours (2-semesters) 600-hours Direct Services 245-hours (min) Includes individual and group counseling, intake interviews, psychoeducational groups, family consultation and counseling, assessments. *Students must have at least 4- indivudal clients and lead/co-lead a group during their internship experience. In-direct Services 280-hours (max) Includes all other supervised experiences, such as documentation, outreach, referrals, consultation, staff meetings, and professional development. Individual Supervision 30-hours (min) Individual and/or triadic in-person, on-site supervision with Site Supervisor Group Supervision 45-hours (min) 1½ hours per week group supervision, provided on a regular schedule, by the Faculty Supervisor Internship Hours Internship hours may begin to be accumulated only if the following conditions have been met: A grade of B has been recorded for MH 702. You have received a passing score (83% or higher) on the Comprehensive Exams #1 and #2. Your Application to Enroll in Internship has been approved. The site has been approved by the Directors of the program or the Field Placement Coordinator. The Internship agreement has been completed and submitted. Your placement schedule has been approved by the Field Placement Coordinator.

14 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 11 Continuing Hours after End of Semester You may continue to accumulate internship hours at your site during semester breaks (to complete hours or gather hours towards the following semester) if: You receive approval from the Field Placement Coordinator or Faculty Supervisor You are continuing placement at the same site On-site supervision will continue to be available There is clear justification for the need of such an arrangement Hours continue to be documented If additional hours or needed and the end of the semester arrives, you will receive an INC for the Internship course until the hours and related paperwork are submitted. Special arrangements may be made to address accumulating hours, but this must be approved by the Field Placement Coordinator and one of the Directors of the Program. EXPECTATIONS FOR INTERNS There are general intern responsibilities; as well as specific expectations regarding (a) development of internship goals, (b) maintenance of internship activities records, (c) completion of various assessments, and (d) fulfillment of other course requirements. General Expectations As an Intern, you are expected to demonstrate: o Knowledge of internship expectations and requirements o Knowledge and compliance with internship site policies and procedures o Knowledge of your internship site, including their mission statement, goals, objectives, stake holders, compliance requirements, operation, and structure o Adherence to the ACA Ethical Code and Standards of Practice, other relevant ethical codes, and the laws of the state in which you are interning. SUMMARY OF INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS Submission of Application to Enroll in Internship Submission of Code of Ethics Agreement Submission of Placement Agreement Submission of Student Goals Agreement Submission of Self-Evaluation (mid-term and end of semester) Submission of Hour logs (weekly, end of semester and Completion) Submission of Student Site Evaluation Submission of Supervision Rating Form Submission of Supervision logs Submission of weekly Internship Reflection write-ups Completed minimum of one clinical interaction recording Attendance to all scheduled course seminars Completion of all MNH 700/ MNH 771 coursework requirements Adherence to all requirements of placement site Ensure Site Supervisor completes and submits all relevant evaluations. Earn no less than a grade of B

15 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 12 Taping Requirements You are required to provide at least one audio and/or video tape of a clinical interaction per semester. These tapes will be reviewed and evaluated by the course instructor, as well as used during course group supervision. A full outline of the required accompanying documentation can be found in the Appendix section. A Consent for Taping form (at the back of the handbook) must be signed by client and/or minor clients parent or guardian and placed in the official site file of the client. Minor clients must also sign their assent. The client must be made aware that tapes will be listened to by the Faculty Supervisor and other counselors-in-training for the sole purpose of counselor evaluation and instruction. All identifying client data will be purged from all logs. The client must be informed that tapes will be confidential and anonymous. They should also be informed that the tapes will be destroyed after they are reviewed. Further information regarding the use of these tapes will be provided student by the Faculty Supervisor. Weekly Reflection Write-ups You are required to keep personal reflections of your weekly experiences in internship. The specific outline for the Reflection Write-ups is available at the end of this handbook. You are expected to begin your reflection write-ups the first week of placement. The goal of this process is to facilitate your self-awareness. INTERNSHIP PAPERWORK Application to Enroll in Internship You will complete this form 2-semesters (including summer) prior to the semester you plan to begin internship. Code of Ethics Agreement You must sign and submit this form with your Application for Enroll in Internship. Internship Placement Agreement This is the form that is completed as a collaboration between you and the site. This form must be submitted to the program prior to accumulating placement hours. Site Supervisor Agreement This form is signed by the internship Site Supervisor as an agreement that they will support your experience requirements. This form must be submitted to the program prior to accumulating placement hours. Internship Goals Agreement You are required to develop a contract containing the goals you would like to accomplish during your internship. Be sure to discuss your goals with your Site Supervisor and obtain his/her signature on the contract to indicate their agreement and support in your progress towards these goals. A copy of this contract must be turned into your Faculty Supervisor. When developing your goals, be sure they are feasible, measurable, and behaviorally stated. Employment Site as Internship Placement Request (as applicable) Students who wish to pursue internship hours in their current place of employment are asked to

16 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 13 write a formal request for permission; outlining how the dual roles will be managed. Student Self Reflection Write-Ups You are required to start these write-ups during your first week in placement. Use the form provided in the Appendix and submit them to either your Field Placement Coordinator or Faculty Supervisor (as directed). Student Self Evaluation (midterm & End of Semester) Utilizing the outline available in the Appendix, you will reflect on your experiences as an intern. There are different components to consider for the midterm evaluation and at the end of the semester. You will submit these forms to either your Field Placement Coordinator or Faculty Supervisor (as directed). Log of Internship Hours and Activities (weekly and end of semester) To track your internship activities, you are required to maintain written records of your tasks. The Weekly Log Sheets must be completed and a copy returned to your Faculty Supervisor at each course meeting. At the end of the semester, complete the Semester Log Sheet and Completion form; a compilation of the data from your weekly logs. These will be placed in your permanent file. Remember: o Your supervisor s signature is required on all log sheets to verify your work. o Be sure to keep copies of all log sheets for your records. Log of Internship Supervision Hours (individual/triadic and group) You are expected to submit a log of all supervisor contact, both on-site and in-class. Remember: o Your Site Supervisor or Faculty Supervisors signature is required on all log sheets to verify your work contact. o Be sure to keep copies of all log sheets for your records. Student Assessments of Site & Supervisor You are required to complete formal written evaluations of your internship site and supervision. Forms must be completed and turned into your Faculty Supervisor at the end of each internship semester. Student Site Evaluation Supervision Rating Form Site Supervisor Evaluation of Student (midterm and end of semester) You are required to complete formal written evaluations of your internship site and supervision. Forms must be completed and turned into your Faculty Supervisor at the end of each internship semester. Midterm Assessment End of Semester Assessment Certification of Counseling Internship (end of each semester) You are required to complete formal certification of completion of your internship requirements.

17 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 14 EXPECTATIONS OF FACULTY SUPERVISOR/FIELD PLACEMENT COORDINATOR These faculty members will direct the academic requirements of the internship course, monitor placement activities and act as liaisons with Site Supervisors as needed. Faculty members will: Be in contact with Site Supervisors via letter or phone call near the beginning of each semester. Conduct at least one site visit per semester (as appropriate). The purpose of the meeting is to discuss intern progress and issues of concern to you, the Site Supervisor, and/or the faculty member Be available to provide supervision and/or consultation to the Intern and Site Supervisor Establish course requirements (for in class learning activities). Evaluate the internship site and the Site Supervisor Evaluate the Intern and their progress Assign the course grade based on the criteria below: a. the adequacy of meeting the goals and objectives of Internship Goal Contract, b. the Site Supervisor s evaluation, c. intern s self-evaluations d. the Faculty Supervisor s own evaluation e. fulfillment of Internship course requirements EXPECTATIONS OF SITE SUPERVISORS To ensure a meaningful and successful internship experience, Site Supervisors are requested to meet certain minimal criteria, provide interns various clinical opportunities, and perform specific functions. Counseling students should be sure to discuss and obtain agreement about these expectations with the Site Supervisor before committing to an internship site. Site Supervisor Qualifications Site supervisors must meet qualifying criteria as detailed below: A minimum of a Master s degree in counseling or a closely related profession with equivalent qualifications, including appropriate certifications and/or licenses (i.e., LMHC). Additional supports per licensure requirements may be considered with Faculty Supervisor. A minimum of three years of pertinent professional experience in the program area in which the student is completing clinical instruction Site Related Training To help interns become thoroughly familiar with their placement, Site Supervisors are asked to: Provide an orientation (if possible, prior to the beginning of the semester) including mission statement, goals, services, history, stakeholders, and expectations. Provide supervision and training about the site s policies and procedures Provide information and answer your questions about the site s standards and operations Consultation and Supervision Site supervisors are expected to provide close supervision:

18 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 15 Schedule time for consultation and supervision, for minimum of 1-hour, on a weekly basis. Ensure the intern have supervision on-site during internship work hours Opportunities Site supervisors are expected to: Provide opportunities for the intern to meet the clock hour requirements, including percentages of time in specific service areas (see Internship Experiences ) Support the intern in working with a wide variety of clients in both individual and group settings Encourage the intern to become involved in all appropriate aspects of the site Provide adequate space, supplies, materials, and other resources Integration with Site Staff and Other Professionals A complete internship experience should include developing sound working relationships with staff and other professionals. Site supervisors are expected to: Involve the intern in staff meetings, consultations with other professionals, and other related opportunities Assist and support the intern s efforts to be accepted as a member of the staff Evaluations of Student Performance Periodic evaluations of intern work will enable interns to meet their goals. Site supervisors are asked to: Help the intern formulate the internship goal contract, review goal contract, and review progress throughout the experience Assist the intern with periodic self-evaluations Provide the intern with feedback about work and verify internship log of activities in weekly supervision sessions Meet with the faculty representative on scheduled visits (1x per semester) Advise the faculty representative of any concerns that may arise related to intern progress Complete, discuss with intern, and return to faculty representative the Field Placement Evaluation (midterm and End of Semester) Forms are due to be turned in the program near the end of the semester Midterm Evaluation of Student Performance End of Semester Evaluation of Student Performance Problems with Placement Site Supervisors, and other placement staff, as asked to contact the Field Placement Coordinator or Faculty Supervisor to mediate any problems with student performance or conduct. In all cases, efforts will be made to mitigate problems and maintain a student in their placement site. If issues arise that cannot be resolved, student will be removed for the site and alternative arrangements made; as the concerns, conflicts or violations warrant.

19 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 16 PROFESSIONAL CONSIDERATIONS The internship courses of the program are designed to provide opportunities for you to demonstrate and refine your counseling skills under close supervision. The successful student will openly face challenges, listen and respond to supervision, give and receive feedback, abide by accepted ethical standards, and practice self-care. Personal Challenges During clinical experiences, you will likely encounter clients and supervisors who will push your buttons. This is a normal and desirable process that will challenge growth through the facing and acknowledging of unresolved issues that may block your effectiveness as a counselor. Although these encounters may be difficult at first, openness to the experience is an important process in counselor development. It is equally essential for interns to become aware of their own biases, attitudes, values, and beliefs and how these impact the counseling process. Rigidity in these areas can seriously inhibit one s effectiveness as a counselor. Acknowledging and accepting deeply ingrained viewpoints and the limits these perspectives may place on clinical work is a critical aspect of professional development. Many students choose to invest in their professional futures by participating in personal counseling. Professional counseling may be a choice to consider. Supervision and Feedback During the internship experience students will receive extensive supervision and feedback from their Site Supervisor, Faculty Supervisor, and peers. Who we are as a person greatly influences our effectiveness as a counselor. Therefore, there will be times when the supervision and feedback an intern receives will address personal qualities as well as the use of counseling skills. To take full advantage of supervision, it is critical that you prepare for the supervision sessions. The following sections provide information about these important areas: scheduling your time, receiving feedback, giving feedback, and preparing for supervision. Scheduling Your Time Extensive supervision is required during the internship. Make note of the requirements listed below and plan your schedule accordingly: 1 hour on-site supervision weekly (to be scheduled with your Site Supervisor) 1 1/2 - hour group supervision with Faculty Supervisor every week (typically in class) Receiving Feedback and Supervision Probably at no other time in a counseling career will your work be under such close supervision as during internship. You are urged to take advantage of this unique opportunity by making the personal decision to be non-defensive and open to supervision and feedback. Steps that will facilitate your participation in the supervision process include: Focus Yourself -Take a few minutes before each supervision session to center and focus on your goal primarily to become the most effective counselor you can be. Actively Listen - Make it a priority to really hear the feedback offered, even when you may perceive the comments as critical. Examine Yourself - Consider the validity of the feedback; be open to new ideas that may challenge old perceptions about yourself. Embrace What Resonates - Gift yourself with the willingness to grow and change as you

20 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 17 learn more about yourself through the supervision process. Value Yourself - Sometimes counselors-in-training are the most critical of themselves; be kind and gentle to you during this work. Preparing For Supervision Being prepared for supervision sessions will enable students to take the greatest advantage of this component of the clinical/field experience. In addition to the openness described above, minimum preparation includes: Paperwork Completing all required paperwork before supervision. Tape Review Before the supervision session, listening to/watching tapes of own counseling sessions and cueing the tapes to portions on which you want feedback. Supervision Questions Writing down the specific questions you have for the supervisor. Licensure/Certification Requirements You need to consider the New York State and CACREP requirements for counseling licensure and/or certification. You can obtain information from these sources from the following web pages: National Certified Counselor National Board for Certified Counselors New York State LMHC licensure Office of the Professions, NY State Education Department CODE OF ETHICS AND STANDARDS OF PRACTICE A professional ethical code is the set of guidelines that governs professional behavior. Standards of practice are statements of minimum behavior by which professionals are expected to abide. The American Counseling Association (ACA) publishes the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice (2014) that defines the principles of these behavior, and students are require to adhere to them. These codes are also in-line with the New York State Office of the professions Unprofessional Conduct rules ( As a counselor-in-training, you are required to meet your professional obligations regarding ethical practice. Therefore, without exception, you are expected to meet the minimum responsibilities outlined below: Minimum Ethical Obligations You may download a copy of the ACA Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice at Read and become thoroughly familiar with this information Abide by the ethical behavior and standards of practice endorsed by ACA Bring your general, non-emergency ethical questions to supervision sessions

21 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 18 Immediately consult with your Faculty Supervisor and/or Site Supervisor when emergency ethical dilemmas arise (i.e., suicide, homicide, child/ elder abuse, etc.) Become familiar with and abide by policies and procedures established by your internship site Adhere to the laws of the state in which you conduct your internship Sign and submit the Ethical Conduct Agreement form You also are obligated to be familiar with and abide by the ethical standards endorsed by the American Mental Health Counselors Association ( but check with your faculty and/or site supervisor to determine if there are additional codes of ethics to which you may be required to adhere. You also are required to become familiar with and abide by the policies and procedures established by the agency/institution in which you are conducting your internship course requirements. Consult with your Site Supervisor. Violations of these codes may result in probation, removal from internship, or dismal from the program. PROFESSIONAL CODE OF CONDUCT Beside the ACA and the New York State Office of the Professional rules of Unprofessional Conduct, students are responsible to complying with the Code of Conduct regulations set forth in the Mental Health Counseling program and School of Health Science handbooks. Violations of these codes may also result in probation, removal from internship, or dismal from the program. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Students must know the internship site s emergency procedures and follow them. You must notify you supervisor(s) immediately of any emergencies occurring in placement activities. Students should never confront emergencies or crises without supervision and support. SELF-CARE Most interns fulfill numerous roles, such as student, spouse, parent, child, employee, and community/professional leader. Sometimes it is difficult to find time to care for oneself in the middle of such a hectic life. As we add the Internship course to our list of personal roles, selfcare becomes even more critical. Self-care activities will assist interns in managing the often emotionally challenging professional environment, as well as meet the obligations of daily living. Instilling healthy self-care activities now, supports long term health professional habits and reduces the risk of burnout later. Your success as a counselor-in-training means making graduate school responsibilities a top priority while maintaining a healthy balance with other aspects of your life. Consider developing and implementing workable strategies to meet your needs in areas like those suggested below: Physical - Good nutrition, adequate rest, and moderate exercise are the basics. Social - Supportive friends and family will bring love and meaning to your life. Peer Relationships - A circle of peers from work and/or school can provide understanding and support. Spiritual - Nurturing your faith and religious/spiritual beliefs is good for the soul. Recreation - Playing and having fun are important aspects of a full life.

22 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 19 Humor - Looking for the lighter side can provide respite to tendencies to take life too seriously. Letting Go - Remember, you cannot fix your clients, take away their pain, or make their decisions: Live gently; let go of these burdensome expectations. Obviously, this list of recommended areas of self-care is limited. Use these suggestions as starting points for developing your own self-care plan. Your Placement Coordinator, Faculty Supervisor, or Faculty Advisor can support you through this process. HELPFUL HINTS Commit to developing the quality of openness to self-exploration. Consider investing in your professional future by arranging for your own personal counseling and/or other therapeutic ways to work with your own unresolved issues, biases, attitudes, values, and beliefs. Plan sufficient time in your schedule for required supervision. Take full advantage of supervision and feedback by adopting an open non-defensive attitude. Develop the ability to give accurate sensitive feedback to others. Prepare for supervision by reviewing tapes, completing paperwork, and formulating supervision questions before meeting with your supervisor. Become familiar with and adhere to your professional code of ethics and standards of practice, state laws, and site policies and procedures. Love and care for yourself

23 TOURO COLLEGE: MHC INTERNSHIP HANDBOOK 20 APPENDICIES APPENDIX A: Paperwork Application to Enroll in Internship Code of Ethics Agreement Internship Placement Agreement Site Supervisor Agreement Internship Goals Agreement Student Self Reflection Write-Ups Student Self Evaluation (midterm & End of Semester) Log of Internship Hours and Activities (weekly and end of semester) Log of Internship Supervision Hours (individual/triadic and group) Student Assessments of Supervisor & Site Site Supervisor Evaluation of Student (midterm and end of semester) Certification of Counseling Internship (end of each semester) APPENDIX B: Resources Important Websites

24 MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING PROGRAM DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE IN THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES A Division of Touro College APPLICATION FOR ENROLLEMENT IN INTERNSHIP COURSE NAME Address Home Phone City Zip Work Phone Student Id # Anticipated start of Internship Requirements for internship Application: Passing Grade (83% or higher) on Comprehensive Exam #1 (score: ) Passing Grade (83% or higher) on Comprehensive Exam #2 (score: )* GPA of 3.0 or higher (GPA: as of date signed) Completion of courses list below with a grade of B or higher: MNH 600 (grade: ) MNH 630 (grade: ) MNH 632 (grade: ) MNH 640 (grade: ) MNH 681 (grade: ) MNH 702 (grade: ) Completion of courses list below*: MNH 611 (grade: ) MNH 620 (grade: ) MNH 638 (grade: ) MNH 691 (grade: ) Completion of at least 4 additional courses* (list below) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) (grade: ) Completion of minimum of 42 course credits by semester of internship enrollment* * Some requirements are anticipated leave blank and updates will be added as grades/scores are acquired. Please Attach the Following: Resume (Curriculum Vitae CV) Writing sample Site Interest & Self-Assessment (see following page) Code of Ethics Agreement Student signature Date

25 MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING PROGRAM DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE IN THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES A Division of Touro College APPLICATION FOR ENROLLEMENT IN INTERNSHIP COURSE Site Interest & Self-Assessment Please address the following areas and attach write up with application I. My long term career goal is: II. My area of special interest is: III. The client/student whom I would most like to work with is: IV. The client/student whom I would least like to work with is: V. I feel most qualified/skilled to work with: VI. I feel least qualified/skilled to work with: VII. An area of competence I would like to enhance or develop is: VIII. My ideal site supervisor would have the following characteristics: IX. I feel most comfortable in a working environment with the following characteristics: X. I have had the following professional or volunteer experience and/or course work related to counseling: XI. My personal areas of strength and weakness which should be considered in the site selection process XII. Describe your ideal counseling practicum/internship. Include what duties you would perform and with what type of population. Meeting with Field Placement Coordinator: (date) Notes: Approved for enrollment Incomplete application Unable to move forward into internship (explain below) reasons: Student signature Date Field Placement Coordinator signature Date

26 MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING PROGRAM DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE IN THE SCHOOL OF HEALTH SCIENCES A Division of Touro College CODE OF ETHICS AGREEMENT Mental Health Counseling Program This is to verify that I have read, understood, and will comply with all sections of the most recent version of the American Counseling Association s Code of Ethics (ACA) and the Touro College Mental Health Counseling program s Code of Conduct (and outlined in the program s handbook). If any ethical issues should occur during my internship placement occur, I will immediate contact my Field Placement Coordinator and Faculty advisor both via phone and with all information related to the issue. I understand the ramification of failure to comply with the ACA and College code of this and conduct, as outlines in this handbook. If questions arise, I agree to reach out immediately to my Touro College advisors for assistance before I take another course of action. I am signing this of my own volition and without coercion. Signature of Intern Printed Name of Intern Date STATEMENT OF CONFIDENTIALITY I agree not to divulge any information regarding material, cases, names, or concerns to any party outside of group supervision. Failure to abide by this agreement will constitute a violation of confidentiality and is unprofessional and unethical conduct. Signature Date