Careers

At Healing Hearts of SW Oklahoma (HHSWOK) we help students learn the ins and outs of working in the field, including what it's like to apply theories they learn in class to real people. Practicum students are able to closely watch our team of professionals complete tasks like diagnosing, counseling, and creating treatment plans. 

The National Association for Colleges and Employers (NACE) reported that over 81% of graduates say that a practicum/internship benefitted their careers by helping them find focus. HHSWOK is an ideal setting for those students who want to work as individual practitioners or who want to work in a private clinic/agency. 

WHAT WILL YOU DO FOR YOUR PRACTICUM AT HHSWOK? 

Practicums may vary depending on your school’s program, your licensure designation, and the level of coursework you are completing. However, there are some components that all students in these positions can expect. You will initially observe a licensed professional interacting with patients. Over the length of the practicum, your supervisor may give you some basic therapeutic tasks to complete. You will be given opportunities to discuss why the clinician did or said certain things and go over any questions you may have. 

HOW LONG WILL YOUR PRACTICUM AT HHSWOK LAST? 

A recent study of psychology program directors found that the average desired length of a practicum is 1,094 hours. Thankfully, most graduate programs only require two semesters of 150 hours per semester for a total of 300 hours. 

HOW WILL COMPLETING YOUR PRACTICUM AT HHSWOK HELP YOU? 

Not only do clinicians need to understand theory, diagnosis criteria, and treatment options, but they must also know how to build trusting relationships with each client. Because professional interpersonal skills are difficult to teach in a classroom setting, practicum students are given the opportunity to develop them in practicums. Furthermore, these experiences allow students to see what happens behind the scenes, which helps to smooth the transition from school work to a professional role.

Practicum with Healing Hearts According to Our Students: 

“My practicum experience at HHSWOK was one of support and personal growth. Their trusted and supportive staff allowed me to work independently to experience what the professional side of the office was like. Shepherding me through the initial steps necessary to take with assessments and note-taking, assisting me with plenty of time to ask questions, and helping me improve in areas where I felt less equipped.” - M.F. 

“I have been able to watch well trained professional therapists work tirelessly to meet the needs of their clients. I have learned that being adaptable in each session is important and that counseling is definitely an art and, with practice and opportunity, the most difficult tasks can be mastered. I have leaned to be open minded and take every opportunity I have for learning. My questions are answered and I receive positive and educational feedback. Most of all I am learning the importance of meeting someone where they are, and walking with them through their journey with grace and compassion. “ -S.M.