A Qualitative Investigation of Clinical Mental Health Counselors' Group Practicum Training Experiences

Authors

Brittany L. Pollard-Kosidowski, Indiana University of PennsylvaniaFollow
Monica E. Kaule, Indiana University of PennsylvaniaFollow
Heather Uphold, Indiana University of PennsylvaniaFollow
Chad LosingerFollow
Adam F. Stephens, SUNY New PaltzFollow

Document Type

Empirical Research Article

Keywords

group counseling, counselor education, practicum, experiential learning, Bloom's Taxonomy

Subject Area

Counseling, Counselor Education, Mental Health Counseling

Abstract

The authors of this study used inductive content analysis to qualitatively explore the group practicum training experiences of clinical mental health counselors who graduated from one CACREP-accredited program. Fifteen participants shared about their firsthand experiences in a required group practicum course and described the ways in which the experience impacted their competence and self-efficacy as counseling professionals and group workers. Five resulting themes highlight the significance and value of practical training experiences dedicated solely to group facilitation. Implications for counselor educators and program accreditors are provided, along with recommendations for future research.

Recommended Citation

Pollard-Kosidowski, B. L., Kaule, M. E., Uphold, H., Losinger, C., & Stephens, A. F. (2024). A Qualitative Investigation of Clinical Mental Health Counselors' Group Practicum Training Experiences. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 18(1). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/jcps/vol18/iss1/9