Practicum Counselor

Summary

The Practicum Counselor (Unpaid) position is designed to provide students enrolled in counseling, social work, psychology, or related degree programs with structured clinical training and supervised experience. This role exists solely for the educational benefit of the student and does not constitute an employment relationship with the Organization.

The Practicum Counselor participates in supervised activities that support their academic learning and professional development. The position is unpaid and does not offer wages, benefits, or future employment guarantees.

Job Responsibilities

• Participate in individual and group counseling sessions under the supervision of licensed staff.
• Observe and assist in case management, client assessments, and documentation as permitted.
• Engage in treatment planning, progress notes, and chart reviews with guidance from supervisors.
• Attend clinical staff meetings, trainings, and supervision sessions as scheduled.
• Comply with all confidentiality, HIPAA, and ethical standards of practice.
• Complete academic requirements as outlined by the university or training program.
• Collaborate with staff and supervisors to integrate feedback into practice.
• Perform other educational activities related to the practicum as assigned by the Clinical Supervisor.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Current enrollment in a master’s-level or doctoral-level counseling, psychology, or social work program.
• Practicum placement must be approved by the academic institution.
• Strong interest in counseling and clinical services in substance use or behavioral health.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional ethics.
• Basic understanding of counseling theories and techniques.
• Willingness to learn and apply evidence-based practices.
• Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Openness to supervision and constructive feedback.
• Cultural sensitivity and commitment to serving diverse populations.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Ability to sit for extended periods during client sessions and supervision.
• Ability to walk, stand, and move between offices and meeting spaces.
• Use of computer systems for documentation and research.
• Practicum hours may include evenings or weekends depending on program needs.

Compensation

This is an unpaid educational placement. No stipend, wages, benefits, or future employment is provided. The practicum is intended to fulfill academic credit requirements and provide professional training.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by occupying this position.  May be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested, subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and standards.

Harris House is an equal opportunity employer. We provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with us. When we hire, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.