Training Program

Welcome and thank you for your interest in the Doctoral and Master’s level training programs offered by University of Massachusetts Lowell Counseling Services (UMLCS). We have been in the "business" of training advanced candidates in Master’s and Doctoral programs in Counseling, Psychology, and Social Work for over 30 years and our staff members are devoted to and passionate about the development of the next generation of superb clinicians. We know that selecting a site for your professional training is both a personal and significant decision. We hope the following information will be helpful as you consider your opportunities.

UMLCS strives to prepare practicum students to become well-rounded, competent, and ethical practitioners, able to function in a variety of clinical settings. UMLCS trainees develop skills of assessment, treatment, and crisis intervention through exposure to the daily practice of a university counseling center. Our trainees are highly valued and we treat them with respect and the recognition that they will be future colleagues.

Time Requirements

Commitment of 24 hours per week, throughout the academic year, required. Schedules are flexible with the exception of Wednesday mornings which are required for Training Seminars, Case Consultation, and Group Supervision meetings.

Stipend

To help offset expenses and travel costs, trainees are offered a stipend of $5,000 dispersed throughout the year.

Clinical Services

Provide intake assessments, formulate treatment plans, and determine DSM-5 diagnoses for clients. Maintain a caseload of 10-15 clients in individual therapy. Co-lead a process, semi-structured, or psychoeducational therapy group. Write comprehensive, accurate, and timely clinical documentation of all encounters with clients.

Supervision

1-2 hours of individual supervision as well as 1 hour of group supervision including viewing of video clips of trainee therapy sessions with clients.

Curriculum

Training Seminars are offered for 1 hour weekly for trainees and UMLCS staff. Previous topics have included: multicultural competence, case conceptualization, substance use/abuse, counseling university students, brief psychotherapy, crisis intervention, working with clients having psychosis, and Gestalt Therapy. Case Consultation meetings are held for 1 hour weekly for trainees and the UMLCS staff.  Trainees and UMLCS staff review and consult about clients who are at-risk for harm to self-or others. Trainees and UMCLS staff also discuss 1-2 clients in depth to obtain feedback and suggestions on clinical issues and treatment decisions. Trainees have the opportunity to participate in Division of Student Affairs Meetings. Here, trainees can learn about the dynamics of and interplay between different University departments as well as the importance of collaboration between offices.