Check-In: Practicum Experience
Hello Readers!
This post might be a little different from the typical content on my blog, but I wanted to take a moment to speak authentically and share some personal updates. Over the past few months in my mental health counseling program, I’ve experienced a mix of challenges, growth, and exciting learning opportunities that I think are worth sharing. I want to give you a glimpse into what my day-to-day looks like, the skills I’m developing, and how I’m navigating the highs and lows of training to become a counselor.
My first therapy space! Woohoo!
One of the biggest parts of my journey right now is my practicum experience, where I get to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world counseling situations. This is where theory meets practice, and I’ve been learning so much about working with clients, building rapport, and navigating the challenges that come with supporting individuals through difficult experiences
Who am I working with?
In my practicum, I primarily work with court-mandated clients, which means these individuals have been referred to counseling through the legal system. I also have opportunities to engage with clients who are experiencing a variety of challenges, such as trauma, intimate partner violence, family conflict, and parenting concerns. My clients are often adults who come from a variety of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I support clients in identifying their strengths, building coping strategies, and working toward personal growth, while also following structured, evidence-based treatments.
A Typical Week in Practicum
On a typical day, I might start by reviewing client files and preparing for individual sessions, making sure I understand their goals, progress, and any specific topics that should be addressed. During sessions, I focus on building rapport, actively listening, reflecting client feelings, and guiding the session through evidence-based treatments or coping strategies when appropriate. Between sessions, you might find me running to the restroom or grabbing a quick cup of coffee before my next client arrives.
However, when I have enough time between sessions, I spend it documenting progress notes, planning future sessions, and consulting with my supervisor to review cases or discuss strategies for supporting clients more effectively. I also get the chance to meet with more seasoned interns, who have been incredible at sharing advice and tips for managing the many responsibilities on our plates. On top of that, I have an amazing supervisor who has been incredibly supportive and an essential part of my growth this trimester.
Challenges I’m Facing and How I’m Growing
While my practicum has been an incredible learning experience, it hasn’t been without its challenges. I’ve had to learn how to balance work, classes, wedding planning, my personal life, and this fieldwork experience, while making sure I don’t fall behind in any area. Since I’m being transparent, it’s been a trial-and-error process; sometimes I do fall behind in my classes or in the work I was supposed to complete that day. But I’m only human, and with transitions and change come learning opportunities and areas for growth.
In terms of sessions, I’ve also found that it can feel uncomfortable at times to challenge or confront clients’ thoughts or behaviors, but I truly believe that’s often where real growth and change happen. Quick funny story: my very first session ever went over by almost 20 minutes because I didn’t know how to appropriately end it. And what did I choose to do? A dramatic knee slap followed by, “It’s been great talking to you.” I was mortified. Thankfully, I can confidently say that I now know exactly how to end sessions smoothly (lesson learned the hard way!).
Skills I’m Developing
One of the most rewarding parts of my practicum is seeing my skills grow with each session. I’m continuing to strengthen my active listening and reflection of feeling, which helps clients feel truly heard and understood. I’m also improving my ability to build rapport quickly, which is so important when working with clients who may be hesitant or resistant at first.
Another key area of growth has been learning how to implement evidence-based treatments and curriculums. Understanding the theory in class is one thing, but applying it in real sessions requires both flexibility and creativity. I’m also gaining confidence in assessing client needs, planning sessions, and documenting progress, which are all essential skills for any counselor. I am over halfway through my practicum experience, and I know the Sarah that started just a few months ago would be so proud and shocked by the growth we’ve made thus far.
Moving Forward
Reflecting on my practicum journey so far, I’m so happy at how much I’ve grown both personally and professionally. I’m excited for the counselor I am becoming and hope that I can positively touch as many lives as possible along the way. I’m so grateful for the guidance of my supervisor, the advice of more experienced interns, the trust of the clients I work with, and the support of my family and friends. I look forward to our next check-in!
P.S. As a friend once told me, life begins at the end of our comfort zone. What’s one way you’ve stepped out of yours lately?
