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DEPARTMENT OF APPLIED SOCIAL STUDIES
Master of Social Sciences in Counselling
COUNSELLING PRACTICUM HANDBOOK
SS6806 Counselling Practicum
August 2013 10th Edition
Prepared by MSSC Counselling Practicum Coordinating Team
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF THE MSSC PROGRAMME ...................................................................................1
1.1 ‐‐‐ Programme Staff ......................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 ‐‐‐ Curriculum 2
CHAPTER 2: COUNSELLING PRACTICUM (SS6806) OVERVIEW ......................................................................3
2.1 ‐‐‐ The Practicum Handbook ............................................................................................................ 3 2.2 ‐‐‐ Aims ............................................................................................................................... 3 2.3 ‐‐‐ Objectives ............................................................................................................................... 4
2.3.1 ‐‐‐ Knowledge ................................................................................................................ 4 2.3.2 ‐‐‐ Dispositions .............................................................................................................. 4 2.3.3 ‐‐‐ Performance ............................................................................................................. 5
2.4 ‐‐‐ Counsellor Licensure ................................................................................................................... 5 2.5 ‐‐‐ Length of the Practicum .............................................................................................................. 6 2.6 ‐‐‐ Student Insurance ....................................................................................................................... 6 2.7 ‐‐‐ Practicum Site ............................................................................................................................. 6 2.8 ‐‐‐ Procedures ............................................................................................................................... 7
2.8.1 ‐‐‐ Stage One: Before Beginning Practicum: ................................................................. 7 2.8.2 ‐‐‐ Stage Two: During the Practicum Semester(s): ....................................................... 8 2.8.3 ‐‐‐ Stage Three: After the Completion of the Practicum: ........................................... 10
CHAPTER 3: RESPONSIBILITIES: PRACTICUM SUPERVISOR, STUDENT AND AGENCY ................................... 11
3.1 ‐‐‐ Practicum Supervisor ................................................................................................................ 11 3.1.1 ‐‐‐ Assignment of Practicum Supervisor ..................................................................... 11 3.1.2 ‐‐‐ Duty ........................................................................................................................ 11 3.1.3 ‐‐‐ Authority ................................................................................................................ 12 3.1.4 ‐‐‐ Format .................................................................................................................... 12 3.1.5 ‐‐‐ Process ................................................................................................................... 12 3.1.6 ‐‐‐ Supervision Guidelines ........................................................................................... 12 3.1.7 ‐‐‐ Assignments ........................................................................................................... 13 3.1.8 ‐‐‐ Suggested List of Tasks for the Practicum Supervisor ........................................... 13 3.1.9 ‐‐‐ Contributions and Responsibilities to the University ............................................ 14 3.1.10 ‐‐‐ Contributions and Responsibilities to the Agency ............................................... 14
3.2 ‐‐‐ Student ............................................................................................................................. 14 3.2.1 ‐‐‐ Attendance and Assignment .................................................................................. 14 3.2.2 ‐‐‐ Working Hours ....................................................................................................... 15 3.2.3 ‐‐‐ Minimum Requirement of Written Work, Video/Audio Tapes & Site Visits ......... 15
3.2.3.1 ‐‐‐ Written Assignment .................................................................................... 15 3.2.3.2 ‐‐‐ Video/Audio Tapes ...................................................................................... 16 3.2.3.3 ‐‐‐ Site Visits ..................................................................................................... 16 3.2.3.4 ‐‐‐ Reflective Journal ........................................................................................ 16 3.2.3.5 ‐‐‐ Individual Counselling ................................................................................. 17 3.2.3.6 ‐‐‐ Group Counselling ....................................................................................... 17
3.2.4 ‐‐‐ Responsibility to Agency ........................................................................................ 17 3.2.5 ‐‐‐ Responsibility to Clients ......................................................................................... 17
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3.2.6 ‐‐‐ Responsibility to Practicum Supervisor and in Personal Learning ......................... 18 3.2.7 ‐‐‐ Other Responsibilities ............................................................................................ 18 3.2.8 ‐‐‐ Video Taping/Recording ......................................................................................... 19 3.2.9 ‐‐‐ Confidentiality ........................................................................................................ 19 3.2.10 ‐‐‐ Ethical and Legal Guidelines ................................................................................. 20 3.2.11 ‐‐‐ Suggestions for the Student ................................................................................. 20
3.3 ‐‐‐ Agency ............................................................................................................................. 20
CHAPTER 4: PRACTICUM AGREEMENT AND APPROVAL ............................................................................. 21
4.1 ‐‐‐ General Policies ......................................................................................................................... 21 4.2 ‐‐‐ University ............................................................................................................................. 22 4.3 ‐‐‐ Agency ............................................................................................................................. 22 4.4 ‐‐‐ Student ............................................................................................................................. 24
CHAPTER 5: ASSESSMENT ......................................................................................................................... 25
5.1 ‐‐‐ Individual Supervision (70%) ..................................................................................................... 25 5.1.1 ‐‐‐ Assessment Criteria ................................................................................................ 25 5.1.2 ‐‐‐ Evaluation Process ................................................................................................. 25
5.2 ‐‐‐ Group Supervision (30%) ........................................................................................................... 26 5.2.1 ‐‐‐ Presentations (20%) ............................................................................................... 26 5.2.2 ‐‐‐ Participation (10%) ................................................................................................. 26
5.3 ‐‐‐ Grading System and Guidelines for Grading ............................................................................. 27
CHAPTER 6: PROFESSIONALISM AND POLICY ON RETENTION .................................................................... 29
6.1 ‐‐‐ Professional Expectations in Practicum .................................................................................... 29 6.2 ‐‐‐ Failure in Practicum ................................................................................................................... 29 6.3 ‐‐‐ Petition and Appeals ................................................................................................................. 30
6.3.1 ‐‐‐ Moderation of Grades ............................................................................................ 30 6.3.2 ‐‐‐ Petition for Resolution of Academic Mistreatment ............................................... 30 6.3.3 ‐‐‐ Appeal Procedure ................................................................................................... 31
CHAPTER 7: FORMS AND APPENDICES ...................................................................................................... 33
7.1 ‐‐‐ Table 1 Use of the Forms and Appendices ................................................................................ 33 7.2 ‐‐‐ Form 1000 Counselling Practicum Application ......................................................................... 35 7.3 ‐‐‐ Form 1001 Practicum Site Information ..................................................................................... 35 7.4 ‐‐‐ Form 1002 Pre‐Practicum Site Visit .......................................................................................... 36 7.5 ‐‐‐ Form 1003 Practicum Approval Form ....................................................................................... 36 7.6 ‐‐‐ Form 1004 Practicum Supervisor Confirmation ........................................................................ 36 7.7 ‐‐‐ Form 1005 (a) Client Consent Form/ Form 1005 (b) Parental Consent Form / Form 1005(c):
Informed Client Form (Chinese Version) ............................................................. 36 7.8 ‐‐‐ Form 1006 Student Portfolio Checklist ..................................................................................... 37 7.9 ‐‐‐ Form 1007 Monthly Summary of Practicum Hours .................................................................. 37 7.10 ‐‐‐ Form 1008 Summary of Practicum ......................................................................................... 37 7.11 ‐‐‐ Form 1009 (A) Mid‐term Evaluation on Student Practicum Performance & Form 1009 (B)
End‐of‐practicum Evaluation on Student Practicum Performance ..................... 37 7.12 ‐‐‐ Form 1010 Student Evaluation on Practicum ......................................................................... 38 7.13 ‐‐‐ Form 1011 On‐site Supervisor Feedback on Student Performance ....................................... 38 7.14 ‐‐‐ Form 1012 Student Evaluation on Practicum Supervisor ....................................................... 38
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7.15 ‐‐‐ Form 1013 Student Evaluation on Practicum Site .................................................................. 38 7.16 ‐‐‐ Form 1014 Individual Session Evaluation Form ...................................................................... 38 7.17 ‐‐‐ Appendix I Practicum Proposal ............................................................................................... 38 7.18 ‐‐‐ Appendix II Protecting Privacy in Practicum Learning and Instruction: A Departmental
Policy Statement .................................................................................................. 38 7.19 ‐‐‐ Appendix III Student’s Declaration on Disposal of Recordings ............................................... 39 7.20 ‐‐‐ Appendix IV Session Intake / Appendix V Session Recording / Appendix VI Session
Summary / Appendix VII Transfer/closing Summary .......................................... 39 7.21 ‐‐‐ Appendix VIII Frequently Asked Questions about the Counselling Practicum (SS6806) ........ 39 FORM 1000: COUNSELLING PRACTICUM APPLICATION ...................................................................... 40 FORM 1001: PRACTICUM SITE INFORMATION .................................................................................... 42 FORM 1002: PRE‐PRACTICUM VISIT .................................................................................................... 43 FORM 1003: PRACTICUM APPROVAL FORM ....................................................................................... 44 FORM 1004: PRACTICUM SUPERVISOR ............................................................................................... 45 FORM 1005(a): 錄音 / 錄影同意書 ................................................................................................. 46 FORM 1005(a): CLIENT CONSENT FORM ............................................................................................. 47 FORM 1005(b): PARENTAL CONSENT FORM ....................................................................................... 49 FORM 1005(c): INFORMED CONSENT ................................................................................................. 50 FORM 1006: STUDENT PORTFOLIO CHECKLIST ................................................................................... 51 FORM 1007: MONTHLY SUMMARY OF PRACTICUM HOURS .............................................................. 52 FORM 1008: SUMMARY OF PRACTICUM ............................................................................................ 53 FORM 1009 (A): MID‐TERM EVALUATION ON STUDENT PRACTICUM PERFORMANCE ...................... 55 FORM 1009 (B): END‐OF‐PRACTICUM EVALUATION ON STUDENT PRACTICUM PERFORMANCE ...... 57 FORM 1010: STUDENT EVALUATION ON PRACTICUM ........................................................................ 63 FORM 1011: ON‐SITE SUPERVISOR FEEDBACK ON STUDENT PERFORMANCE ................................... 65 FORM 1012: STUDENT EVALUATION ON PRACITICUM SUPERVISOR.................................................. 66 FORM 1013: STUDENT EVALUATION ON PRACTICUM SITE ................................................................ 67 FORM 1014: INDIVIDUAL SESSION EVALUATION FORM ..................................................................... 68 Appendix I: Practicum Proposal (Length of Proposal: 1,500 words in English) ................................... 69 Appendix II: Protecting Privacy in Practicum Learning and Instruction: A Departmental Policy
Statement ............................................................................................................ 70 Appendix III: Student’s Declaration on Disposition of Recordings ...................................................... 76 Appendix IV: Session Intake ................................................................................................................. 77 Appendix V: Session Recording ........................................................................................................... 78 Appendix VI: Session Summary ........................................................................................................... 79 Appendix VII: Transfer/closing Summary ............................................................................................ 80 Appendix VIII: Frequently Asked Questions about the Counselling Practicum/SS6806 ..................... 81
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OVERVIEW OF THE MSSC PROGRAMME
he Master of Social Sciences in Counselling programme offers advanced study through either research‐based training (SS6805 Project) or practice‐based training (SS6806 Counselling Practicum). The Counselling Practicum is designed to enable students to reflect on and improve their counselling practice. To ensure an individualized and fruitful practicum experience for each student, the
Department needs to reach a formal agreement with the host organization and the person who will be the on‐site supervisor. Students without prior experience in counselling are strongly recommended to acquire relevant experience as para‐professionals in volunteering, such as serving as hotline counsellors, before embarking on the counselling practicum.
1.1 ‐‐‐ Programme Staff
Programme Leader and Year 2 Coordinator:
Dr. KWONG Wai‐Man ([email protected], Tel: 3442‐8962)
Associate Programme Leader and Year 1 Coordinator:
Dr. Annis FUNG ([email protected], Tel: 3442‐2923)
Practicum Coordinator: Dr. Tom YUEN ([email protected], Tel: 3442‐8262)
Practicum Coordinating Team: Dr. Andrew LOW ([email protected], Tel: 3442‐8994) Mr. Dennis IP ([email protected], Tel: 3442‐2697) Mr. Ray CHAN ([email protected], Tel:3442‐4744)
Chapter
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1.2 ‐‐‐ Curriculum
Common Core Courses and Programme Electives Common core courses cover subject areas essential for preparing students to perform the counsellor role. For students coming from a social work/counselling background, they may deepen existing knowledge and skills to attain advanced level of counsellor preparation and development. Programme elective courses broaden students’ knowledge and skills to keep abreast with new development in the field of cousnelling and therapy. Students pursuing the counselling practicum may choose from a list of elective courses on offer three elective courses, subject to availability of places and student enrollment attaining a minimum number (at present the number is 18) for a course (except SS5804 Research Methods for Counselling) to be offered. The list of elective courses may be revised from time to time to match the learning needs of students and new development in the field of counselling and therapy. Two laboratory training courses are currently on offer S5841 (Counselling Skills Laboratory) is designed for beginners to acquire micro‐skills of counselling. SS5842 (Advanced Counselling Skills Laboratory) is designed for students coming from a social work/counselling background. Core Courses SS5757 Personality Theories and Assessment SS5800 Counselling Theories and Practice SS5801 Counselling in Society and across Culture SS5802 Group Counselling and Therapy SS5803 Psychopathology SS6805 Project SS6806 Counselling Practicum Programme Elective Child, Youth & Family Work and Adjustment SS5821 Counselling Children and Youth SS5811 Counselling in Workplace SS5822 Family‐based Service and Family Practice SS5812 Negotiation and Mediation in Work SS5824 Domestic Violence: Prevention and Treatment SS5813 Issues of Career Guidance and Counselling SS5825 Marital Preparation, Enrichment and Therapy SS5814 Vocational Counselling and Assessment SS5826 Parent Education and Support
Health and Aging General Electives SS5831 Issues in Social Gerontology SS5208 Cognitive‐behavioural Interventions SS5832 Counselling Older Adults SS5804 Research Methods in Counselling SS5833 Mental Health Counselling SS5805 Narrative‐based therapeutic conversations:
Theory and practice SS5834 Disability and Heath Care SS5841 Counselling Skills Laboratory SS5842 Advanced Counselling Skills Laboratory
For details in each course, please click into this website: http://www.cityu.edu.hk/ss
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COUNSELLING PRACTICUM (SS6806) OVERVIEW
2.1 ‐‐‐ The Practicum Handbook
he Counselling Practicum Handbook provides information on the arrangement of practicum training for students It articulates the terms of agreement with the student, the host organization providing the practicum site, and the Department of Applied Social Studies. Intended readers include students,
practicum supervisors, and on‐site supervisor of the host organization. The Handbook provides a common frame of reference that allows all the parties involved to reach a shared understanding in the how practicum training for MSSC students is organized, how teaching‐learning is pursued, and how fair and reliable assessment of is carried out. It clarifies the roles and expectations of all the parties and details the operational guidelines and administrative procedures. The Handbook has been revised from time to time to update changes in the organization of practicum training. We welcome comments and suggestions from all involved parties to raise the quality of practicum learning and improve the organization of practicum training.
2.2 ‐‐‐ Aims The aim of Counselling Practicum is to provide practice‐based instruction of knowledge, attitudes, and skills required for effective participation in the counselling profession. It is the culminating activity in the training of professional counsellors that requires integration and application of counselling theories, skills, and practices in agencies under the group and individual supervision provided by the Department. For the student, practicum provides the opportunity to: 1) Practice and refine one’s counselling skills; 2) Integrate counselling theory into practice; 3) Experience counselling process with real clients; 4) Build professional contacts with participating social service agencies and community resources; 5) Enhance awareness in one’s capability to function as a professional counsellor; and 6) Begin to identify needs and to envision one’s own contribution to the counselling profession.
Chapter
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2.3 ‐‐‐ Objectives Upon completion of the course, the student is able to achieve the following three parts of outcomes:
2.3.1 ‐‐‐ Knowledge 1) Develop/enhance understanding of professional counselling in the following areas:
Counselling Including – Individual counselling, group counselling, and family or martial counselling (if
opportunity is available at the practicum site) Assignment Including – Case conceptualization, treatment plans, recordings, evaluation reports, reflection
journals and logs, conference/ meeting notes, and audio/ video recording records Professional and Ethical Responsibilities Refer to the Ethical Code of the American Counselling Association (2005)
2) Develop a personalized approach to counselling based upon established counselling theory(ies), empirically supported interventions, supervision, and client interaction;
3) Understand the personal expectations needed to benefit from professional supervision; 4) Understand the implications and the application of multicultural perspectives upon the counselling
process; 5) Understand the implications and the application of normal life‐span development concepts upon the
counselling process; 6) Understand the implications and the application of preventive interventions upon the counselling
process; 7) Understand and follow the Ethical Code of the American Counselling Association (2005); and 8) Adhere to the university regulations and practicum site standards of practice. 2.3.2 ‐‐‐ Dispositions Develop/enhance the capability of critical thinking, professional behaviors and reactions necessary for professional counselling in the following areas: 1) Perceive self‐development in becoming a professional counsellor; 2) Value cross‐cultural sensitivity and respect alternative worldviews; 3) Value flexibility and openness in the practice of counselling, yet desire clinical consistency and
scientifically based rationales for choosing counselling strategies and interventions; 4) Value clients’ assets and strengths regardless of degree of disturbance (both at the individual level and
the larger system level); 5) Value the effectiveness of preventive interventions in working with clients; 6) Value professional development and regard supervision as a significant factor in promoting such
development;
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7) Appreciate the value of self‐evaluation and the recognition of personal strengths, weaknesses, and limitations, and demonstrate a willingness to change behaviors as necessary;
8) Commit to practice according to the professional ethical standards; and 9) Value rapport and respect the client autonomy.
2.3.3 ‐‐‐ Performance Develop/enhance the practical skills in professional counselling in the following areas: 1) Perform basic counselling duties including: Screenings, intakes, assessment, treatment planning, crisis
intervention, case management, referral, education, and micro‐counselling skills (e.g., reflection, paraphrasing, summarizing, interpretation) with clients;
2) Openly seek, accept, and utilize advice/feedback on counselling skills and strategies from supervisors and peer learners;
3) Identify alternative theoretical formulations and practical conceptualizations for cases; 4) Participate in individual and group supervision to discuss cases and individual professional
development; 5) Complete appropriate documentation of counselling practice including informed consent, intake
summaries, appraisals/assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, termination summaries, and correspondence;
6) Discuss readings in professional literature relevant to issues in professional development; 7) Perform accurate and appropriate professional practice/goal‐setting, as well as self‐evaluations of
professional performance/goal attainment; 8) Identify and discuss multi‐cultural/cross‐cultural issues surrounding specific cases; 9) Identify and discuss vocational/career issues surrounding specific cases; 10) Identify and discuss ethical and legal issues surrounding cases. Act in accordance with the Ethical Code
of The American Counselling Association; and 11) Adhere to practicum site policies and procedures that promote legal and ethical professional practice.
2.4 ‐‐‐ Counsellor Licensure Graduation from this programme does not lead automatically to licensure as a licensed counsellor because of the lack of a specialized accrediting body in Hong Kong. All graduate students in counselling programme are strongly encouraged to join one or more professional organizations that most closely fit their intended chosen career goals. Possible organizations include The Hong Kong Professional Counselling Association Limited (HKPCA), the Hong Kong Institute of Group Therapy, Hong Kong Association for Marital Reconciliation, Hong Kong Association for Marriage and Family Therapist, and other appropriate professional organizations. Students are also encouraged to demonstrate involvement in their affiliated organizations and to present papers at local, regional, and international meetings of professional organizations.
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2.5 ‐‐‐ Length of the Practicum The practicum is to be completed over two semesters (13 weeks for each semester). Students are strongly advised not to take other course while taking practicum. This is a two‐regular course. The semesters have to be consecutive in the same academic year. No practicum is offered during the summer session. Each semester has 13 weeks and students are strongly advised to complete about 60 direct client counselling contact hours in each semester. Among the 120 hours to be achieved, no more than 60% should be completed in either one semester. The maximum direct contact hours could be achieved in the first semester is 80. For those who cannot achieve at least 40 direct client counselling contact hours, they have to submit officially explanation on the reason and describe the future plan to the Practicum Supervisor and Practicum Co‐ordinator before Semester B. Only with the special approval from the Practicum Supervisor and Practicum Co‐ordinator, the student could continue the practicum. Any hours achieved without the approval would not be counted. In case if a client requests counselling services during the Semester Break, approval from the practicum agency and the Practicum Coordinator is necessary before a student could perform any counselling. As for other hours required in Practicum, such as the assignments and attendance for Group Supervision, the requirement would be divided equally between the two semesters. After the completion of Semester A, an “In progress” note will be given. A final grade will be given after the completion of the whole Practicum in Semester B.
2.6 ‐‐‐ Student Insurance MSSC program has insurance to cover the students who undertake the practicum. City University of Hong Kong has arranged Group Personal Accident Insurance for all full‐time and part‐time students. The University has comprehensive general liability insurance to cover liability against all sums which shall become legally liable to pay for compensation to third party in respect of bodily injury and/or property damage arising from accidents happening in connection with the business. In addition, the insurers will pay all costs and expenses incurred with their written consent. The aggregate limit is HK$ 100,000,000 per occurrence.
2.7 ‐‐‐ Practicum Site Students need to locate potential practicum site, contact staff, and arrange for permission to participate. Endorsement letter is available in the office if needed. Students are discouraged to have on‐the‐job practicum. Students should prioritize their interested practicum sites and approach them ONLY one at a time. Please approach the agency of interest as soon as possible. It is recommended to approach the agency in Semester A. Students needed to have at least one personal meeting with the potential On‐site supervisor to receive verbal consent before submitting the practicum application. The consent should be offered by the On‐site supervisor in person to our students, or the application will not be processed. In addition, for students who have no previous counselling experience, they are strongly recommended to
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acquire voluntary work experiences at social welfare agencies before starting the practicum. It allows students to be more prepared for their Counselling Practicum course emotionally and practically.
2.8 ‐‐‐ Procedures It is extremely important for students to follow the stages and steps outlined below to complete the counselling practicum.
2.8.1 ‐‐‐ Stage One: Before Beginning Practicum: 1st Step: Successfully complete the required core courses, including SS5800 “Counselling Theories and
Practice” and SS5802 “Group Counselling and Therapy”, both as pre‐requisites, plus elective courses to attain a total of 18 credits before starting the Counselling Practicum (Semester A + B mode).
2nd Step: A list of Previous Agencies Offering Practicum Opportunity for MSSC students will be provided for
reference. Students should prioritize the chosen practicum sites and approach them ONLY one at a time rather than two or more agencies at the same time. Students are required to visit the agency and meet the person who may serve as the on‐site supervisor at least once. They should obtain verbal consent from the prospective on‐site supervisor before submitting the required forms (see below) for setting up counselling practicum. The latter will be processed only after the student concerned has met the prospective on‐site supervisor.
3rd Step: Students are advised to read the Practicum Handbook thoroughly before visiting the practicum
site to inform the prospective on‐site supervisor of the arrangement/requirement for the practicum. They should give the prospective on‐site supervisor a copy of the Handbook for future reference.
4th Step: Upon the student’s written request, the Department will send the course description of the
counselling practicum to the prospective on‐site supervisor if this may facilitate the process of securing a practicum site. Students are also advised to submit a letter of intent and their resume to the “gate‐keeper” of a practicum site.
5th Step: Students need to submit the Counselling Practicum Application (Form 1000), the Practicum Site
Information (Form 1001) and a Proposal (Appendix I) by 1st March of the year if they plan to start the two‐semester counselling practicum in Semester A of the following academic year. Chapter 7.2 of the Handbook furnishes further details on this. Documents required for the counselling practicum application must be in single‐sided HARD COPIES and submitted to the SS General Office in person during office hours or placed in collection box at the SS General Office after office‐hours. Soft‐copies submitted via email will not be accepted.
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6th Step: Identification of practicum site(s) that meets the following criteria:
Sufficient and regular distribution of workload for students to accrue 120 hours of counselling practice over the entire period of the counselling practicum;
Adequate practical support to students in giving counselling help and performing the counsellor role.
The Department will confirm if the proposed practicum site is suitable for the student concerned. The Department may either contact the prospective on‐site supervisor by phone or conduct a site visit (From 1002) to assess the suitability of the proposed practicum site. Final approval is contingent on a three‐party agreement among the Practicum Coordinator, the student, and the on‐site supervisor Form 1003. Accruement of practicum hours will begin only after signing Form 1003 and commencement of Semester A.
7th Step: A practicum supervisor will be assigned to each student before Semester A. Two copies of the
Practicum Approval Form (Form 1003) and Practicum Supervisor Confirmation Form (Form 1004) will be provided to both the student and the on‐site supervisor when they meet at the Counselling Practicum Orientation to be held in late August. Students are required to attend the Orientation.
2.8.2 ‐‐‐ Stage Two: During the Practicum Semester(s): 1st Step: Students should thoroughly read Appendix II (Departmental policy on protection of privacy) and
submit the completed Student’s Declaration on Disposal of Recordings (Appendix III) to their practicum supervisors.
2nd Step: Students are required to attend both individual and group supervision sessions.
Individual supervision: 26 hours Group supervision: 30 hours.
3rd Step: Arrange at least two site‐visits by the practicum supervisor and, if possible, a meeting between
the practicum supervisor and the on‐site supervisor during the site visit. 4th Step: Students must complete 120 hours of counselling practice.
Students are advised to complete at least half of the required hours of counselling practice (i.e. 60 hours) in Semester A, and the rest in Semester B.
5th Step: Students are required to present their counselling work in group supervision sessions and conduct
a collaborative inquiry with group members for generating practice‐based learning. For individual supervision, students are advised to follow the guidance of their practicum supervisors to study and reflect on their practice experience and critically examine how they think and act in practice. They are required to document their practice for such purposes (a total of 70 hours are budgeted for this), including “first contact report” (variously known as “intake report”, “intake summary”, or “case intake”) (Appendix IV), session/process recording (Appendix V), session summary (Appendix
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VI), transfer/closing summary (Appendix VII), session notes, biweekly reflective papers, and additional written work that their practicum supervisor may assign to support student learning. Templates and illustrative examples are accessible online for students’ reference in devising their own ways of documenting practice.
6th Step: It is essential for students to obtain prior consent (Form 1005a – Client Consent & Form 1005c –
Informed Client Form) from their clients for making digital records of counselling (individual, family, and group) sessions. The completed form is then submitted to the practicum supervisor concerned. For clients who are under 18‐years‐old or have mental deficits, students need to obtain their guardian’s agreement (Form 1005b – Parental Consent Form) before rendering counselling service. To support practice‐based learning, students are encouraged to make digital records of counselling sessions after establishing rapport with their clients. Students are also advised to use Form 1006 (Student Portfolio Checklist) which is designed to enable them to track the work being done and their progress in the counselling practicum.
7th Step: Students are required to complete the Monthly Summary of Practicum Hours (Form 1007) and
obtain endorsement from their practicum supervisors at the end of each month to log in practicum hours and report what they have done in the month.
8th Step: Students are required to submit the Summary of Practicum (Form 1008) to their Practicum
Supervisors for reviewing their practicum experience at mid‐term and at the end of the counselling practicum respectively.
9th Step: Practicum Supervisors review student performance at mid‐term and give an initial grade (not to be
taken as a formal assessment) for students’ reference regarding how well they have performed in the practicum thus far Practicum supervisors report their assessment in the Mid‐term Evaluation on Student Practicum Performance (Form 1009 – A) and should provide both their students and the Practicum Coordinator a hard copy.
10th Step: There are two evaluation sessions (2 hours each) for giving teacher assessment of students and
collecting student feedback: Mid‐term evaluation is normally conducted in December, and the final evaluation id carried out in April of the following year.
11th Step: The present arrangement of the counselling practicum enables students to complete a total of 250
practicum hours: Nature Hours Direct client counselling contact 120 Supervision Weekly or once every two weeks individual supervision = 26 hours 3 hours x 10 group supervision sessions = 30 hours 2 hours x 2 evaluation sessions (Mid‐term & final evaluation session) = 4 hours
60
Assignments (Case intake, case recording, case summary, transfer/closing summary, an integrated form, brief notes of each session, biweekly reflective papers, and other assignments.)
70
Total 250
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1) Of these 250 hours, at least 120 hours are allotted to counselling practice with individuals and groups.
If circumstances permit, students are advised to prepare digital records of 5‐10 vignettes of counselling practice (with individuals and/or groups) selected for the purpose of supporting practice‐based learning. Students must obtain written informed consent from their clients and the approval of their online supervisors for taking digital records.
2) students are required to attend the following teaching and learning activities (60 hours in total): i) Regular individual meetings with Practicum Supervisor, normally either one‐hour long meeting per
week or two‐hour long meeting every two weeks (26 hours); ii) Three‐hour group supervision sessions with other practicum students to be held every two weeks
for the two‐semester counselling practicum and every week for the one‐semester B mode (30 hours); and
iii) A two‐hour practicum evaluation session held at mid‐term and at the end if the practicum (4 hours).
3) Students are required to document their practice and other tasks assigned by their practicum
supervisors (70 hours in total).
2.8.3 ‐‐‐ Stage Three: After the Completion of the Practicum: 1st Step: Practicum Supervisors are required to complete the End‐of‐practicum Evaluation on Student
Practicum Performance (Form 1009 (B)). It serves as a formal assessment of the students’ performance during the entire practicum period.
2nd Step: Students are also required to complete the Student Evaluation on Practicum (Form 1010) at the
end‐of‐semester. 3rd Step: On‐site Supervisors are invited to fill in the On‐site Supervisor Feedback on Student Performance
(Form 1011) and return the completed form to the Department. 4th Step: Students are required to complete the Student Evaluation on Practicum Supervisor (Form 1012) for
providing feedback on individual supervision, and also the Student Evaluation on Practicum Site (Form 1013) for giving suggestions to the practicum site. Both forms should be directly submitted to the Practicum Coordinator.
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RESPONSIBILITIES: PRACTICUM SUPERVISOR, STUDENT AND AGENCY
3.1 ‐‐‐ Practicum Supervisor
3.1.1 ‐‐‐ Assignment of Practicum Supervisor
he assignment of Practicum Supervisor to students is arranged by the Practicum Coordinator in consultation with the Programme Leader and Practicum Team of the Department. The Practicum Coordinator is responsible for the overall administration of the practicum, and assists in the liaison
work amongst students, practicum supervisors, counselling practicum agencies, and the Department. The assignment of the Practicum Supervisor to the student is based on the nature of counselling, needs of the practicum agency, needs of the student, and consideration of staffing resources in the Department. Once the approval is given, the student is expected to discuss the requirements of the written assignments with the Practicum Supervisor in the first individual supervision. A group practicum supervision session will be held in the first week to help students understand the assessment.
3.1.2 ‐‐‐ Duty 1) To offer individual supervision up to 26 hours in total; 2) To discuss the student’s goals for the practicum experience; 3) To observe the student and offer regular feedback; 4) To discuss and provide support to the student during the progress of the practicum; 5) To send a monthly progress report on each student, relationships between supervisor and supervisee,
irregularities and urgencies by email to the Practicum Coordinator during the 1st week of each month; 6) At least two site‐visits will be done at the practicum site and at the convenience of the On‐site
Supervisor; 7) If the student cannot provide any video or audio tapes of counselling session, two extra site‐visits for
offering live supervision at the agency are necessary; 8) Should be sensitive to student’s progress, especially on the practicum progress in the practicum site. If
the student needs to find a second practicum site, practicum supervisor has to conduct a site visit and have a formal meeting with potential on‐site supervisor of the agency. Explain the responsibility of the agency according to the handbook, and assess the appropriateness of the students to take an additional practicum site; and
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9) To inform the Practicum Coordinator if he/she will be out of town during the practicum period; and 10) To complete the assessments of the student over the course of the practicum. 3.1.3 ‐‐‐ Authority The Practicum Supervisor has the authority and professional responsibility to withdraw a student from a practicum experience if the student’s performance constitutes a detriment to the clients at the practicum site. If such a termination is necessary, the employing or practicum agency will be informed. 3.1.4 ‐‐‐ Format The Practicum Supervisor shall assist students in developing their conceptual and practical skills in counselling within their expertise. This includes helping students in their assessment and conceptualization, intervention, and closure of cases. This can be achieved through individual case discussions (preferably based on audio‐ or video‐tapes provided by the students), and/or in the form of a case conference in group supervision. At least two visits to the practicum site have to be conducted during the student practicum.
3.1.5 ‐‐‐ Process 1) Individual supervision is a one‐to‐one relationship between the practicum student and his/her
Practicum Supervisor. The location of supervision must be conducted at the University or the practicum site. It is typically held weekly for 1 hour or bi‐weekly for 2 hours for a minimum of 26 hours.
2) Group supervision, an additional support to individual supervision, typically involves case presentation,
role‐playing, and discussion of relevant professional issues under the direction of a faculty member.
3.1.6 ‐‐‐ Supervision Guidelines To ensure a student could maximize his/her learning during the practicum, the Practicum Supervisor plays a triple role: as an administrator, as an educator, and as a facilitator. As an administrator, he/she prepares the student for the practicum, plans and monitors the student’s work throughout the practicum period. As an educator, he/she helps the student apply theories to practice and sharpens the student’s practical skills. As a facilitator, he/she supports the student in the latter’s work and enhances the student’s self‐understanding and development. The supervision provided by practicum supervisor should be located either in the University or practicum site. In the first meeting, Practicum Supervisors will discuss the learning objectives and supervision arrangements with the students. A learning contract would be set between the two parties on the learning goals, assignments, and other learning expectations. Other than discussing the student performance through their written record, the Practicum Supervisor shall also explore if students could audio‐video record their counselling sessions or a live supervision is possible.
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3.1.7 ‐‐‐ Assignments Practicum Supervisors may ask for other extra assignments from students, such as in‐depth case analyses, detailed process recordings, group session plans, group evaluation report, etc., with reference to the need of complying with agency regulations. Therefore, the assignment tasks may vary and have individually differences among students.
3.1.8 ‐‐‐ Suggested List of Tasks for the Practicum Supervisor To facilitate the work of the Practicum Supervisor, the following list provides examples of the kinds of tasks that are useful to enhance student learning: 1) Planning and organizing the student’s practicum
Discuss with the student the detailed practicum proposal to further understand his/her interest, knowledge, strengths, experience, expectations, learning needs, and objectives;
Clarify the roles of the student both as a student and a staff member of the agency in which the student is employed;
Clarify the role of the Practicum Supervisor, and the criteria for student evaluation; and Work out a detailed learning contract with the student, taking into consideration the student’s
learning needs and the abilities and resources of the student. 2) Planning and monitoring the student’s work
Discuss with the student to derive mutual agreement on his/her task assignments, workload, work plan, and weekly time schedule;
Keep updated about the student’s work progress through reports, audio‐visual tape recordings or direct observations;
Involve agency staff to give feedback to the student on his/her task performance; Review the student’s progress and adjust the work plan according to specific learning objectives;
and Have a mid‐practicum review, and make modification to the learning contract and work plan with
the student.
3) Facilitating the student’s learning of counselling skills Prescribe the student to read literature and/or materials; Discuss with the student relevant theories and practical models for conceptualization and analysis
of clinical concerns and problems specific to his/her practice setting and clients; Demonstrate the appropriate use of counselling skills; Stimulate the student to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills; Provide regular review and feedback on student’s performance; Point out the student’s strengths and weaknesses; and Share own experience in handling difficult situations.
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4) Enhancing the student’s self‐understanding and development Examine the practicability of students’ ideas and allow them to explore their potentials; Provide opportunities to work on transference and/or counter‐transference experience between
the student and his/her clients; Review with the students any barriers they encountered in handling difficult clients and
situations; Discuss with the student value dilemmas, conflicts and ambivalence; and Alert the student to examine blocks in his/her own learning.
3.1.9 ‐‐‐ Contributions and Responsibilities to the University The Practicum Supervisor is contributing to counselling education in Hong Kong by linking classroom teaching to counselling practice. He/she also contributes by communicating experiences in the field back to the University that may have implications for curriculum development. When problems arise during supervision and that cannot be resolved, the Practicum Supervisor should inform the Practicum Coordinator as early as possible, so that the situation can be dealt with in a professional manner.
3.1.10 ‐‐‐ Contributions and Responsibilities to the Agency Practicum Supervisors have the responsibility in that the students’ work meets the requirements not only of the Department, the profession, and the community, but also of the agency. The Practicum Supervisor shall be responsible for evaluating the student’s learning experience, and if necessary, shall consult agency staff to get a better understanding of the student’s performance.
3.2 ‐‐‐ Student
3.2.1 ‐‐‐ Attendance and Assignment Students are expected to complete a total of 250 hours for the Counselling Practicum which consists of direct client counselling contact (120 hours), supervisions (individual: 26 hours; group: 30 hours), evaluation (mid‐term: 2 hours; final: 2 hours), and assignment (70 hours).
Students must attend all the individual supervisions, group supervision sessions, and evaluation sessions. Attendance is mandatory in fulfilling the requirements of practicum. Absenteeism may result in repeating the entire practicum. If students could not attend a group supervision session, they are required to send an email with detail explanation. Students also need to seek the group supervisor’s permission to sit in another class of group supervision that would held during alternative week, or attend one to two academic conferences or 3‐hour seminars, and then write a reflective essay with 500 words in English, then submit to the group supervisor before the last session of group supervision.
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Students are required to complete all the assignments which guided by the Practicum Supervisor, and conduct presentations and group discussions in group supervision session. Students who fail to submit any required written work that associates with the violation of ethical codes during the practicum, they will be suspended conditionally from their practicum. An example of violation would be a late submission of Session Intake (Appendix IV). The Session Intake should be submitted to practicum supervisor within 2 weeks after the first session with clients. The individual supervision will also be suspended until the students have submitted all required documents. For details, please consult with the practicum supervisor.
3.2.2 ‐‐‐ Working Hours Students whether working on job or not, should negotiate their practicum working schedule with the associated on‐site supervisors.
3.2.3 ‐‐‐ Minimum Requirement of Written Work, Video/Audio Tapes & Site Visits 3.2.3.1 ‐‐‐ Written Assignment All written assignment must be in English. The followings are the MINIMUM requirement of written work to be submitted to the practicum supervisor. The Practicum Supervisor may exercise discretion to make adjustments according to the characteristics of the specific setting and the nature of the specific assignments. Students should therefore consult with their Individual Supervisor for further details on specific expectations for these assignments. 1) A learning contract should be set during the first or second supervision session. 2) Biweekly reflective papers. 3) Two full set of recordings for cases that have more than three counselling sessions in EACH semester.
Each full set includes
Session Intake (Appendix IV) that should be submitted to practicum supervisor within 2 weeks after the first session,
Session Recording (Appendix V) that consists of process recordings with one selected verbatim session of more than 20 minutes,
Session Summary (Appendix VI), and Transfer/closing Summary (Appendix VII).
(Appendix VI and VII may only apply to some clients).
4) Brief notes of each session. Brief notes aim to record the session briefly and remind the counselor of
the clients’ progress.
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5) Extra assignments that are assigned by the individual supervisor to facilitate students’ personal progress. Individual workload may therefore vary among the students.
3.2.3.2 ‐‐‐ Video/Audio Tapes Two video/ audio tapes for any 2 sessions of the entire practicum are included for the Student Portfolio, which is to be submitted to the Department at the end of practicum, for grading and evaluation purpose. 3.2.3.3 ‐‐‐ Site Visits 1) At least two site‐visits will be conducted by the practicum supervisor to the practicum site at the
convenience of the on‐site supervisor; and 2) If the student cannot provide any video or audio tapes of counselling session during the practicum, two
extra site‐visits for offering live supervisions at the agency are necessary. 3.2.3.4 ‐‐‐ Reflective Journal A reflective journal is not work log recording factual information of events. It is a mean for students to record their personal thoughts and feelings while practicing counselling, so that students could be more aware of themselves psychologically, and come to an understanding of how their own psychology may be contributing or influencing themselves as a counselor and counselling process with their clients. 1) Purposes of Reflective Journal:
Reflect on and examine practicum activities or events; Record how students integrate their intellectual knowledge and insights from everyday life into
practices; Evaluate on personal progress and performance as a counselor; Record and reason any decision involved in the preparation processes for any counselling
sessions; Record any hesitation and speculations during the practice of counselling; Record personal feelings and examine personal values.
2) Advantages of Reflective Journal:
Enhance students’ sensitivity on personal psychology and experiences; Strengthen students’ critical thinking capability; Enable students to identify any personal barriers in becoming a professional counselor; Enable students to develop reflective practices on their actions and decisions; Enable students to develop insights that could be integrate into their counselling practices and
everyday life.
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3.2.3.5 ‐‐‐ Individual Counselling Students should record the procedures of the counselling processes from the initial stage of building rapport, conceptualizing the client, consolidating counselling interventions, to the terminating stage of referral or closure. Each session should be followed by a summary recording. Partial process recordings could be helpful for some students to better understand their learning progress. 3.2.3.6 ‐‐‐ Group Counselling Students should prepare group counselling proposal, session plan and summary recording for each group session. In addition, outcome evaluation and final report are necessary to be handed in at the end of practicum. 3.2.4 ‐‐‐ Responsibility to Agency
Students are primarily responsible to the practicum agency as a staff. They are expected to act professionally by observing agency policy, routines and procedures. Their quality of work must meet the requirements of the agency and of the University. For instance, the students have to follow the procedures required by the agency in keeping records and statistics of clients. Students also have to keep other staff of the agency well informed of their work if they work in a multi‐disciplinary team. Students need to be knowledgeable of the general policies and procedures of the agency, particularly on issues related to providing counselling to agency’s clients. Such information may include but is not limited to:
1) General operational procedures, required paperwork, dress code; 2) Procedures for handling emergency situations with clients (suicidal risk, psychotic episode, etc.); 3) The availability of back‐up; 4) Procedures for referrals outside your agency and those resources typically used; 5) Opportunities available for use of assessment instruments, computers, professional literature, and
research; 6) Line of authority and reporting procedures of the clients handled by the student; and 7) Whether or not students are expected to travel to off‐site locations. Students are expected to act responsibly both as a counsellor‐trainee and an employee towards the agency in which they take their practicum. If, for whatever reason, a student is to terminate (or being terminated) from his or her current practicum, the Practicum Supervisor should be notified as soon as possible.
3.2.5 ‐‐‐ Responsibility to Clients Students should introduce themselves as “counsellor‐trainee” to their clients unless this practice contravenes the agency’s practice. In this case, the Practicum Supervisor is responsible to ensure that the agency’s advice is clearly understood and followed by the student.
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Students are responsible for what they do with clients, while the Practicum Supervisor is responsible to ensure that the work assigned is within the student’s capacity. Other than the tasks related to the clients, students should make contacts with other agencies and institutions related to their assignments if necessary. They are also responsible for any written correspondence with any external parties. The letters may have to be countersigned by the Practicum Supervisor, the Practicum Coordinator, or a member of staff of the Department, which will follow agency practice and the nature of the correspondence. Clients should be fully informed of their rights. Any information could only be collected if clients’ consent is obtained via written records or audio‐visual recordings. Student should make sure the client has signed the Client Consent Form (Form 1005(a)). For clients aged under 18 or have been assessed as mental deficits, the student must seek for parental consent before starting any counselling session. Their parents or guardian must sign the Form 1005(b) Parental Consent Form.
3.2.6 ‐‐‐ Responsibility to Practicum Supervisor and in Personal Learning Students must keep all contracts or arrangements made with the Practicum Supervisor regarding supervision and work procedures. They must be properly prepared for supervision and submit all the written assignment that are required by the Practicum Supervisor. As stated in 3.2.1, students have to attend all individual and group supervision sessions. Students are expected to collaborate with the Practicum Supervisor in the on‐going evaluation of student performance, at the mid‐term and also during the final evaluations. Students should actively explore their learning opportunities. They are expected to locate and study resources and references that are related to their practicum. If there is any practicum issue that could not be resolved by discussing with their Practicum Supervisor, the students should inform the Practicum Coordinator as soon as possible.
3.2.7 ‐‐‐ Other Responsibilities If a student decides to terminate the practicum or employee status with the practicum site during the practicum period, it will be considered as a pre‐mature termination of the practicum simultaneously, and therefore no alteration of practicum site will be accepted. Whenever in doubt, take the initiation and discuss the issue with your Practicum Supervisor or practicum agency personnel. Students are perceived as trainee in the field of counselling with the permission of the practicum site. On‐site conflicts may be inevitable, but students are encouraged to take it as a learning opportunity. Students should be fully prepared to use supervision session more effectively. Practicum Supervisors will expect a typed agenda for supervision.
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3.2.8 ‐‐‐ Video Taping/Recording 1) Any use of audio‐videotaping (as well as live supervision if possible) during practicum will put student
performance as the focus. It helps the students to reflect on issues and dynamics arising during a counselling session. It also allows more concrete feedback be given to facilitate student learning.
2) Audio‐video recordings of counselling sessions are required for supervision in practicum with the consent from clients and practicum agency. Students should thoroughly review the counselling recordings and other related materials, mark down any significant content and make reflection before any presentation for individual and group supervision.
In order to maximize the quality of supervision, clear and audible tapes are essential. There are several ways to help ensure quality sound: 1) Make sure the microphone of your recorder does not pick up too much noise;
2) Multidirectional microphones generally have better performance and can be purchased from audio
shops; 3) The tape recorder or camera recorder itself should be placed near the counsellor. It should not be
placed on metal, on an uncarpeted floor, or on any object that is not stationed during the recording. A book under the recorder could be used to absorb any vibration; and
4) The counsellor should try out the tape recorder or camera recorder in the office prior to the session to
find the best positioning of the recorder and microphone to avoid mechanical errors during interviews.
3.2.9 ‐‐‐ Confidentiality One of the most important aspects of counselling is ethical confidentiality. It is an essential element to build trust with your clients. There are several aspects of confidentiality, which you need to be particularly aware of: 1) The student should know the agency’s regulations regarding confidentiality of case notes, files, and
taping;
2) Since taping is an important aspect of the supervisions, it is students’ responsibility to secure the client consent via audio‐video recording or in writing. The student must also explain the limits of confidentiality to clients. The student should let clients know who else will be hearing/watching the tape (i.e., Practicum Supervisor/classmates) and the recordings are solely for educational purposes;
3) As a professional, any information shared in class should be kept confidential by all class members; 4) The client’s full name need not be recorded on any documentation for the University. Students should
use initials to label each client during supervision and class presentation;
5) When tapes are turned in for supervision review, they should be handed to the Practicum Supervisor by
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the student in person. The student should receive them in the same manner. No third party should be involved in the transaction of the recordings; and
6) Reach an agreement with the client and practicum agency on how and when the video or audio recordings would be disposed after the student practicum. Generally, the tapes are destroyed after one year.
3.2.10 ‐‐‐ Ethical and Legal Guidelines Code of Ethics of the American Counselling Association (ACA) are available from your Practicum Supervisor or from the ACA web site at http://www.counseling.org/. For further information on confidentiality, privileged communication, client rights, and informed consent, please refer to the “Protecting Privacy in Practicum Learning and Instruction: A Departmental Policy Statement” (Appendix II).
3.2.11 ‐‐‐ Suggestions for the Student The transition to become a professional counsellor can be both exciting and anxiety provoking. The practicum offers students the opportunity to apply their intellectual knowledge from readings and course work. It is natural for counselor‐trainees to feel insecure about their counselling skills and potential clients. Students should be aware of their role and follow the suggestions and guidance given by the Practicum Supervisor.
3.3 ‐‐‐ Agency MSSC students need to fulfill at least 120 face‐to‐face direct client contact hours through individual or group counselling. Therefore, On‐site Supervisors are expected to arrange clients whose struggles are within the competence level to the students’ capability as trainees. Individual and group supervision with a total of 60 hours will be provided by the University. Even though students are offering counselling services at an agency/organization/school (hereafter refers to the agency), special approval and additional professional and administrative support from the associated authorities may be needed. On‐site Supervisors should be fully aware of the aims and objectives of the Professional Counselling Practicum, and the learning goals of the employees who apply to take the practicum on their current jobs. They are invited to understand the current counselling practicum and be knowledgeable of this Handbook. The agency, as a host for counselling practicum of their employees, may require more from the students than the practicum course. On‐site Supervisor should make clear to those employees on organizational expectations. Any problem with these expectations should be discussed with the Practicum Supervisor assigned to the student in the capacity of counsellor‐trainee or the Practicum Coordinator of the City University of Hong Kong.
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PRACTICUM AGREEMENT AND APPROVAL
4.1 ‐‐‐ General Policies
1) The major goal of the practicum is to provide formal counselling education for students to practice as a professional‐to‐be.
2) This agreement shall remain in effect for the duration of the student’s practicum and as an employee at
the site specified above. Termination of this agreement prior to the successful completion of practicum requires the consultation of the On‐site Supervisor, Practicum Coordinator at the City University, and the student.
3) The practicum is typically a voluntary arrangement with the site with no financial remuneration
required by the City University for services, which are performed by the students in fulfilling the practicum requirements.
4) Duration of practicum typically last for one or two academic semester(s). It is strongly recommended
that students register only 6 credit hours for the practicum semester(s). Once all necessary documentations have been submitted to the City University Practicum Coordinator by the due date specified in this Handbook, and the Practicum Coordinator has determined (in consultation with the Programme Leader) that the proposed practicum site is appropriate for fulfilling City University Counselling programme requirements, the student will be allowed to take practicum in the above stated period.
5) A total of 250 practicum hours is needed. Hours to be achieved by the students may occasionally vary
according to the needs of the student and the clients. 120 hours out of the 250 hours have to be direct and face‐to‐face service for the clients.
6) The practicum experience should enable students to experience the role and function of a professional
counsellor. That is, during the practicum, students must meet the academic and ethical standards set for the course. It is critical that students receive a wide variety of experiences during their practicum. Students could not enroll to the practicum course until they completed all prerequisite coursework and achieve a total of 24 credit hours.
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7) Students cannot accumulate any hours for their practicum until the agreement forms is signed by the On‐site Supervisor, Practicum Coordinator, and the student. Students can only start accruing practicum hours on the first day of Semester A. Vacations and holidays shall be observed according to the University calendar, unless otherwise agreed upon by the Practicum Coordinator, the Practicum Supervisor, and the student.
8) Students, who are engaged in practicum‐related activities and are enrolled in the Counselling Practicum
course, are required to attend regular individual and group supervision session. Any exceptions must be approved jointly by the Practicum Coordinator and Practicum Supervisor. Students need to also seek alternatives to fulfill all practicum requirements before their practicum.
4.2 ‐‐‐ University The University agrees to: 1) Assume full responsibility for the administrative duties associated with the academic requirements of
the Counselling Practicum, including approval of the practicum site and experience, maintaining on‐going and direct communication with agencies, ensuring that the student are academically ready to begin their practicum, and grading.
2) Provide information regarding the City University Counselling programme and curriculum to the parties
involved to plan, assign tasks and to offer supervision. Student data, university calendar, and the Practicum Handbook would also be provided upon request.
3) Designate one academic staff to serve as the Practicum Supervisor for the student and to communicate
directly with the On‐site Supervisor. The Practicum Supervisor will provide weekly individual supervision (2 hours per session), get access to the tape‐recorded practice of the student, and, in the absence of taping, live observation or co‐counselling. The Practicum Supervisor or other academic staffs will also facilitate weekly group supervision sessions (3 hours per session) for all students, and will be available for consultation with the On‐site Supervisor and students throughout the duration of practicum. Practicum Supervisor and the Practicum Coordinator will act as consultants, while the On‐site Supervisors will assume legal responsibility for all clients given to the students.
4.3 ‐‐‐ Agency The agency agrees: 1) The On‐site Supervisor will assume legal responsibility for the welfare of all clients given to the
students; 2) To designate one staff as On‐site Supervisor and the liaison person. The personnel must be an
employee of the agency where the practicum will be conducted. He/she will negotiate with the Practicum Supervisor to assign tasks to the students in reaching the course objectives;
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3) To ensure that students could achieve at least 120 face‐to‐ face counselling hours within a specified
period; 4) To allow audio/video taping of the practice unless this violates agency policies; 5) To provide opportunities for the students in developing skills for face‐to‐face counselling with clients; 6) If students have to engage in off‐site services (e.g., home‐based counselling), except for the on‐the‐job
practicum students, for safety measures, a full‐time agency staff or volunteer has to accompany the students.
7) The students could engage in activities only if the agency could provide adequate insurance coverage; 8) The students will need to consult with the Practicum Supervisor any time when they provide
counselling services; 9) To provide appropriate working conditions and arrangements for the students, such as office space to
meet with clients privately; 10) To ensure adequate and appropriate access to counselling facilities; 11) An idealistic practicum site should include all of the followings:
i) Settings for individual counselling with assured privacy and sufficient space for appropriate equipment (for example, TV monitoring and taping);
ii) Settings for small‐group work with assured privacy and sufficient space for appropriate equipment;
iii) Necessary and appropriate technologies that facilitate learning, such as audio, video, and telecommunications equipment;
iv) Settings with observational and/or other interactive supervision capabilities; and v) Procedures that ensure that the client’s confidentiality and legal rights are protected.
12) To complete the student feedback materials once the student practicum ends; 13) To inform the City University of policies and procedures that are relevant to the student practicum; 14) To maintain close communication with the City University in relation to practicum activities via
available means, such as correspondence with the Practicum Coordinator, on‐site visits by the Practicum Supervisor, and telephone contacts;
15) To monitor student performance and report to the Practicum Supervisor and/or Practicum Coordinator
if students performed unsatisfactorily or violate any ethical guidelines during practicum; and 16) To allow the students to attend regular Individual and Group supervision meetings.
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4.4 ‐‐‐ Student The student agrees to: 1) Enroll in the Counselling Practicum course and will attend all group sessions/classes/seminars for
Counselling Practicum throughout the entire practicum; 2) Complete a weekly Reflection Journal and assignments to be submitted to the Practicum Supervisor,
with copies for the On‐site Supervisor and Practicum Coordinator upon request; 3) Complete assigned duties during the hours scheduled at the practicum site according to the agreement
between the student and the On‐site Supervisor. Students will, however, report directly to the Practicum Supervisor regarding client issues during regularly scheduled individual supervision sessions and as needed (e.g., in response to client crisis/emergency issues);
4) Behave in a professional manner throughout the entire practicum. Students are abided by the most
current version of the ACA Code of Ethics; 5) Be responsible for completing all written assignments related to the practicum according to deadlines
specified in this Handbook and in agreement with the Practicum Supervisor; 6) Ensure that the On‐site Supervisor has a copy of the student course schedule, university calendar, and
the Practicum Handbook; and 7) Ensure that the agency and the Practicum Supervisor receive copies of the completed written
assignments. The student should also ensure that their Mid‐term Evaluation, Final Evaluation and the Practicum Site Evaluation are properly completed and included in their Practicum Portfolio.
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ASSESSMENT
5.1 ‐‐‐ Individual Supervision (70%)
5.1.1 ‐‐‐ Assessment Criteria On‐going reflection and regular revision on the practicum progress are essential. A mid‐term e