Clinical Practicum Experience

As part of the program, you will complete four terms of clinical practicum where you will receive clinical training under the supervision of a licensed therapist or counselor at an approved clinical site near your community. To assist in identifying an approved practicum site, you will be working with the placement team whose role is to facilitate your connection to a practicum site based within 150 miles of your residence.

The Process

Placement Launch Call with your Student Success Advisor one term prior to enrollment in Preparation for Practicum (PSY 661).
Enroll in Preparation for Practicum (PSY 661) and begin your search with the support of the Placement Team.
Apply, interview, and secure a site!
Enroll in four terms of the course PSY 662 concurrently with practicum experience.

Hours & Requirements

Coursework is identical for students pursuing either LMFT or LPCC and licensure is earned after program completion.
Students in California are eligible to pursue either an LMFT or LPCC licensure.
Students in California intending to pursue licensure as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) must earn 225 hours direct client hours during practicum experience.
Students in California intending to pursue licensure as a Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) must earn 280 hours direct client hours during practicum experience.
All students outside of California will be required to complete 700 total placement hours, including the 280 LPCC hours spent directly with clients.
Students should expect to be on site at least 15–20 hours per week during business hours.

A helpful resource for California residents is the Board of Behavioral Sciences websites which can be accessed here: https://bbs.ca.gov/.