The UT Counseling Psychology Program

Universidad

del

Turabo

School

of

Social

Sciences

Graduate

Program

in

Counseling

Psychology

Psychology

Service

Clinic

Internship

Program

INTERNSHIP

MANUAL

Table of Contents

Introduction ... 4 

Goals and Objectives ... 4 

Philosophy of Training ... 6 

Training Curriculum ... 6 

Clinical Presentation Component ... 7 

Staff Meeting Experiences ... 7 

Psychological Services ... 7  Core Competencies ... 8  Locality ... 11  Internship Description ... 12  Intern’s Responsibilities ... 13  Clinical Area ... 13  Teaching Area ... 13  Supervision Area ... 13  Application Procedure ... 13  Selection Procedures ... 14  Behavior Code ... 15  Dress Code ... 16  Supervisors ... 16 

Interns and Supervisors Evaluation ... 17 

Internship Clinical Activity Log... 18 

Due Process, Grievance Procedure and Dismissal from the Internship ... 18 

Due Process:... 18 

Grievance Procedure ... 19 

Non-Discrimination Disclosure ... 22 

Appendix A: Application Form ... 23 

Appendix B: Goals and Objectives Assessment Plan ... 25 

Appendix C: Assessment of Intern Competencies ... 28 

Appendix D: Evaluation of Professor ... 36 

Appendix E: Supervisor Evaluation Form ... 39 

Appendix G: Case Presentation Evaluation Form ... 47 

Appendix H: Evaluation of Psychological Assessment Process Form and Evaluation of Case Conceptualization Process Form ... 49 

Appendix I: Evaluation of Didactic Presentation ... 52 

Introduction

This manual will serve to establish the administrative and clinical procedures for Interns required by Universidad del Turabo Psychological Services Clinic (UTPSC). It also provides general information about policies, the training process, procedures and responsibilities, and requirements for staff and trainees in this program.

Universidad del Turabo Psychological Services Clinic (UTPSC) is part of the School of Social Sciences Psychology Graduate Program. The UTPSC offers psychology assessment and counseling services. It functions as a training site for master and doctoral counseling psychology students. The UTPSC has been operating since 2003 and has continually been expanding its services to provide excellent training and counseling services to the community.

The UTPSC provides its graduate students the opportunity to acquire the clinical skills necessary for the counseling profession. The competencies that students need to become counseling psychologists are multiple and complexed and can only be developed through practical experience in a supervised context. The clinical practice required by the UT

Counseling Psychology Program emphasizes and pays special attention to the process through which students develop the competencies of the profession. The training model focuses

primarily on the skills that graduate students must acquire to form effective therapeutic alliances with their patients. Students will be able to use this relationship to comprehend the person’s circumstances and his/her psychological functioning. Student-trainees will acquire the

professional competencies through the administration and interpretation of psychological tests. They will also acquire skills and intervention capabilities such as psychotherapeutic

interventions, systemic and group counseling, and consultation skills, which are essential elements of the clinical core competencies for professional counseling psychologists. These experiences are necessary to develop core professional competencies for all social and human sciences professions. The UTPSC is part of the School of Social Sciences, which encourages academic excellence through social research and practice.

Goals and Objectives

The fundamental goal of this training program is to provide all interns the opportunity to attain the skills that will prepare them to become professional psychologists and to instill in them values of commitment and the highest standards of practice in the profession and science of

Psychology. This internship program provides trainees the opportunity to practice and consolidate the skills and knowledge within the professional psychology competencies in the context of a supervised clinical and academic professional setting. Its core mission is to provide quality intensive supervised training by competent mentors. The goals and objectives of the program are:

Goal 1: To develop in each intern advanced levels of competence in the psychological assessment, diagnostic process and counseling, and psychotherapy intervention.

Objective 1: The intern will develop advanced psychological evaluation skills in the selection, administration, interpretation, and report writing using data from various sources.

Objective 2: The intern will develop advanced skills in conducting psycho-diagnostic assessment by integrating data from various sources.

Objective 3: The intern will develop advanced levels of competence in conducting several evidence-based psychotherapeutic (individual, group, family, marital, etc.) interventions according to case conceptualization, formulated diagnosis, and the treatment plan designed to address the client’s difficulties.

Goal 2: Interns will consolidate their skills to effectively integrate research and practice as well as apply scholarly inquiry skills in their psychotherapeutic intervention.

Objective 1: Interns will develop an advanced level of competence in evaluating and applying current research to their clinical practice.

Goal 3: Interns will demonstrate an advanced awareness and sensitivity to issues of diversity.

Objective 1: The intern will develop advanced levels of diversity awareness, including attitudes of respect, and will acquire the skills needed to respond appropriately to all clinical and professional situations related to diversity issues.

Goal 4: Interns will integrate ethical standards in the practice of professional psychology following the Code of Ethics of the Puerto Rico Psychology Board, APA Code of Ethics, and all applicable laws and regulations.

Objective 1: Interns will consolidate their skills in managing complex ethical situations needing ethical reasoning and decision-making.

Goal 5: Interns will develop consultation, teaching, and supervision competencies applicable to professional, academic, and clinical contexts.

Objective 1: Interns will develop the ability to utilize appropriate teaching and supervision models and strategies through their experiences supervising master’s level psychology students who are beginning their clinical training.

Objective 2: Interns will develop skills in consulting with other professionals and referral sources using contemporary consultation models and strategies.

Objective 3: Interns will develop a general sense of mental health administration philosophy, strategies and techniques by assuming responsibility for their caseload, participating in the clinic’s staff meetings, and attending conferences and workshops on supervision and administration.

NOTE: The assessment plan for these Goals and Objective is included in Appendix B.

Philosophy of Training

The Psychology Service Clinic Internship Program is based on a practitioner/scholar training approach which adheres to the philosophy that good clinical practice is based on an empirical foundation coupled with an understanding of the individual and his/her broader context (i.e., culture, socioeconomic status, etc.). Internship training includes supervised practice

experience, supervision in evidence based assessment and intervention methods.

Training Curriculum

The internship training curriculum addresses five overarching areas based on the principles of Evidence-Based Practices in Psychology. These include:

1. training in individual, group, couples/family counseling and psychotherapy 2. assessment and psychological testing

3. diversity training and clinical practice with diverse populations

4. training in professional areas including consultation, teaching and supervision 5. mental health management and administration.

This curriculum emphasizes the core competencies of professional psychology and builds upon the basic knowledge and skills already developed by interns.

Clinical Presentation Component

Interns will integrate science and practice and will acquire additional skills in using theory to become familiar with clinical skills. To further develop the interns’ clinical and professional skills, they are required to present at least one case each semester to all interns and clinical faculty. Through these presentations, interns will:

1. demonstrate the clinical competencies they have developed and how these are applied to the case being presented.

2. receive feedback on the presentation and on the work they have done with the client or clients.

3. obtain recommendations for additional interventions and for addressing the case’s clinical challenges.

A presentation guideline is provided to help interns organize the required information.

Staff Meeting Experiences

As part of the mental health administration strategies, interns participate in biweekly staff meetings where administrative issues are addressed. At these meetings interns learn about the challenges confronted by mental health administrators. Some of the issues addressed through these meeting are:

1. development of a referral base and dealing/cultivating with referral sources 2. assignment of cases to interns and practicum students

3. administration of the management information system and use of activities report to monitor the clinic’s performance

4. administration of the clinic’s spaces and resources 5. personnel issues

6. the Clinic’s quality assessment and quality enhancement process including monitoring of clinical records and gathering data on treatment outcomes and patient’s satisfaction. Biweekly group supervision is also available to all program interns. Cases and clinical situations are discussed at these meetings.

Psychological Services

The psychological services offered at the Clinic are for community and university members. These services are offered by graduate students of the Graduate Counseling Psychology Program and interns from the program and other institutions. The interns are supervised by licensed doctoral level psychologists in Puerto Rico. The services are regulated

by the academic agencies, state and federal laws. The Clinic receives referrals from physicians, teachers, social workers and concerned family members.

The people who request the UTPSC services come with a wide variety of problems, e.g., parents and/or teachers concerned about children and teenagers’ academic, emotional and social problems; couples, marriage and family challenges; assistance for grief, anxiety, psychosomatic, depress symptoms related situations, among others. In addition, UTPSC also accepts referrals from governmental or business agencies. Additionally, faculty and staff offer formal and informal consultations to community agencies and professional organizations to expand our partnerships and community support. Some of these diverse groups include: therapists, private and public schools, educators, parents, students, ministers, churches, community leaders, among others. Services provided at the Clinic include individual, couple, family, group and play therapy. It also offers psychological, cognitive, psycho-educational and objective personality assessments and works closely with the university and community to educate and provide support related to mental health.

Core Competencies

Core competencies are those sets of skills that are essential to all practicing academic psychologists. The interns are expected to develop expertise in the core competencies by the end of the program. The core competencies address the professional psychological

competencies, skills, abilities, proficiencies and knowledge in the content areas outlined in the APA Guidelines and Principles for Accreditation:

 Psychological Assessment, Diagnosis, and Consultation:

o By the end of the internship, interns should be able to formulate a multi-axial diagnosis by integrating data from a variety of sources, including clinical interview, family history, medical history, mental status examination, and psychological testing data. All students must demonstrate expertise in psychological assessment.

o By the end of the training, interns should be able to develop a testing battery to answers a specific referral question, administer and score a wide variety of psychological tests, interpret test data, integrate test data with history and other sources, write a report that clearly answers the referral question, and provide clear, relevant, treatment recommendations. All interns must be able to assist consumers and other providers in formulating treatments plans and setting

attainable treatment goals, as well as linking the persons with needed resources to achieve them.

o Specific competencies are taught or developed and evaluated to:  understand differential diagnosis and case conceptualization  select and administer appropriate tests

 interpret and integrate test result  write clear, organized reports

 facilitate development of specific, achievable therapeutic goals  develop action steps for goal achievement

 match the assisted persons with required resources

 recognize unique and shared skills and roles of other professions  General Principles of Evidenced-Based Interventions:

o students are expected to understand and demonstrate an advanced

understanding and application of psychotherapeutics techniques common to all theoretical approaches including empathy, rapports, relationship building, and history-taking, and must become proficient in the procedures involved in specific individual and group evidence-based practices relevant to their training.

o students are required specific competencies to:

 develop and maintain a positive working alliance (actively listen to enhance understanding, instill hope, provide support, be directive, give advice, set limits when appropriate, and be collaborative in goal settings and treatment planning).

 facilitate appropriate expression of emotion

 enhance the person’s understanding of his/her problems and psychological disorders (provide appropriate psycho-education and stabilize emotional reactions when appropriate)

 use empirically supported psychotherapeutic techniques to the maximum possible extent (describe theoretical basis and goals of chosen treatment approach, formulate goals/problems consistent with treatment approach, structure therapy sessions consistent with treatment approach and modify treatment plan based on ongoing evaluation

 use homework effectively

 conduct appropriate therapy termination including use of strategies to minimize return of emotional instability

 develop group therapy skills and preparation (promote group interaction, structure and manage time efficiently, develop and maintain a positive working alliance, instill hope, provide support, set limit when appropriate, instill emotional expression and interact with co-therapist in planning)  create awareness of self and effective use of emotional reactions  Law and Ethics:

o Students must demonstrate: (1) a sound professional clinical judgment and behavior in the application of assessment and intervention procedures with individuals; (2) familiarity with and understanding of professional and legal standards in professional psychology, and (3) a thorough understanding of the Puerto Rico Psychology Board of Examiners (PRPBE) and APA ethical principles and standards.

o students are required specific competencies to:

 work in an ethical manner in accordance with the PRPBE & APA ethics code and all relevant laws

 maintain appropriate professionalism and boundaries

 recognize limits of one’s own expertise and seek appropriate consultation  assess persons at-risk (homicidal ideation, suicidal ideation, abuse) and

intervene appropriately, and

 maintain confidentiality

 Cultural Diversity:

o Students are expected to demonstrate expertise in cultural diversity. Cultural and ethnic issues cut across all core competencies areas. Students develop

experience in cultural diversity through exposure to multiethnic students at Universidad del Turabo. If students have this experience by the end of the training, they are expected to:

 identify cultural/ethnic issues relevant to the case

 explain how these issues affect psychology test data, response to staff, and treatment interventions, and

 modify assessment/treatment approach based on supervisory and consultant input

o students are required specific competencies to:  support the inclusion of all persons

 cultivate awareness of one’s own biases and limitations; seek consultation as needed

 assess cultural factors to ensure formulation of relevant treatment  conduct treatment in preferred communication style and language of the

consultant

 remove institutional barriers to participation for all clients  teach persons the necessary skills to overcome cultural barriers  Supervision:

o Interns receive supervision and are provided with opportunities to supervise other providers (master practicum students), under the guidance of their own

supervisor. They come to supervision prepared to discuss cases using a

theoretical framework to describe a case, assessment or treatment plan. Interns seek supervision for complex cases, and communicate in a professional manner with supervisors and supervisees. Open discussion and acceptance of

constructive feedback during supervision is essential to the learning process. o students are required specific competencies to:

 be aware of their own limitations; seek consultation or suggest alternative supervision plans as appropriate

 maintain an effective, professional supervisory relationship

 recognized the precedence of the person’s well-being over your own (or supervisee) wishes

 be well prepared for supervision (prepare agenda, audio, participate in one way mirror session, etc.)

 integrate and implement supervisor feedback, and

 be willing to discuss problem areas and accept constructive criticism.  Organization Management and Administration:

o Interns must use time management skills to maintain an efficient practice, comply with program and local facility policy and procedures, complete administrative tasks that support training in order to function as effective practitioners.

Locality

The Psychology Services Clinic is housed on the first floor of a Universidad del Turabo (UT) property in Gurabo, PR, adjacent to the UT main campus. A smaller structure located behind the building houses the intern’s common room, a bathroom and storage closets. There

are approximately 1,800 square feet of space between both buildings that are used for clinical and training activities. Parking is readily available, and UT is conveniently situated on a city bus line. The Clinic is accessible to those with physical disabilities and is barrier free. As an integral part of an academic institution, the clinic enhances the credibility of the UTPSC in the

surrounding communities.

The Clinic has 16 separate spaces that are divided to accommodate a reception area with security system (attended by an administrative assistant), a waiting room, and separate offices for the clinic director and for the internship coordinator. A large office space with desks is assigned to students where they wait for their clients and access the clinic’s computerized data management system. Six of the offices are intervention rooms; three (3) are used for

interventions and three (3) for assessment/testing, and when needed, for interventions. A group therapy/meeting room is available There are two bathrooms, a photocopying area and storage areas (available for files, supplies and classified material). Consultation office number 6 has a one-way mirror that can be used by clinical supervisors to monitor counseling or assessment sessions. The main offices contain phones and all case records. The Clinic also has a small library, eight computers, a fax machine and photo-copier. In an adjacent building, the Clinic has a student center and a meeting room. The two structures are equipped with internet Wi-Fi connection, telephones and with an additional bathroom.

The clinic has various electronic resources including a complete electronic record system integrating client’s and interns’ scheduling program, productivity reports and billing system. The software supporting these resources was specifically designed for internship and practicum mental health clinics. There are testing software programs and word processing capabilities.

Internship Description

The UTPSC internship program is a well-organized supervised training experience that includes a supervised clinical experience and a didactic experience. The minimum requirements to complete the internship are: 

o a minimum of 2000 hours in a year

o at least 25% of time will be for face-to-face psychological service to clients o satisfactory evaluation from the supervisors

The UTPSC has five full time internship positions available to start in July 7th, 2014. Interns will received a $1000.00 monthly stipend and have the following fringe benefits:

 two weeks of vacation leave  two weeks of sick leave

 four hours per week for dissertation/ project time Intern’s Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the interns are divided into three main areas: clinical, teaching and supervising.

Clinical Area

During the program, it is required that the interns manage different evidence-based interventions according to the client’s main concern and past history. Interns will also receive training in several psychological batteries and how to administer these depending on the participant’s needs.

Teaching Area

Interns will teach a psychology course to UT undergraduate students. During the first week of the internship program, interns will receive training in course planning, syllabus preparation, and courses evaluation. Interns will also conduct community service interventions/seminars according to the identified needs.

Supervision Area

As stated in the goals and objectives of the internship program, it is fundamental that interns be exposed to the supervision process. Interns will supervise practicum students at the master and doctoral level who are completing their practicum at the UTPSC.

Application Procedure

Students interested in applying for the internship program at UTPSC need to:

 Be enrolled in the Universidad del Turabo Counseling Psychology Doctoral Program. The UTPSC Internship is a captive program reserved for UT doctoral students only.

o have completed all the academic courses before the beginning of the internship program

o have the doctoral candidacy exam and dissertation/doctoral project proposal approved before the beginning of the internship

 submit three letters of recommendations (at least one from a professor and two from clinical supervisors)**

 provide their Curriculum Vitae**  submit an official school transcript**  submit a case conceptualization**

 submit a psychological assessment integrated report**

**Required documents must be uploaded to AAPI online in pdf format following APPIC guidelines.

Incomplete applications or applications received after December 5th will not be

considered. Applicants are welcomed to email or call the Internship Coordinator (IC) regarding doubts, clarifications, or questions.

  Attn: 

Jorge

E.

Berrios,

PsyD

Clínica

de

Servicios

Psicológicos

UT

PO

Box

3030

Gurabo,

PR

00778

(787)

743

‐

7979

ext.

4466

[email protected]

Selection Procedures

The internship application process will be as follows:

 After all the documents listed above through AAPI are received, the UTPSC internship faculty will review and rate applications. Each application is rated

independently by faculty members. Applicants with the highest rating scores will be invited for an interview. Only those applicants who meet the program offerings and settings will be invited to interview. Applicants will be notified via email about their interview status by December 15th.

 Most interviews are conducted during the month of January by two members of the UTPSC Staff. On-site interviews are preferred. The interview is semi-structured, conducted in Spanish, and seeks to obtain information about the candidate’s professional development in the following areas:

o vocation

o knowledge of theory and practice o attitude toward work or work ethic

o correspondence between applicants expectations and program goals o language proficiencies, spoken and written skills (Spanish & English) o self-awareness

 Once the interview is completed, the faculty will rank the candidates and submit the results to APPIC for the match process.

 The manual, policies and due process documents will be given to the intern when he/she/signs the agreement.

Behavior Code

The clinic director, internship coordinator, clinical supervisors, office assistant, graduate/undergraduate assistants (work and study) and graduate students and interns of UTPSC should always demonstrate a professional attitude and respect for all clinical processes. Interns should wait in the student’s common rooms and verify if their cases have arrived. If they don’t have any scheduled appointments, they will work on administrative tasks. Interns are not allowed to stay in the waiting room, nor in the clinical director, internship coordinator, clinical supervisors or the administrative areas. During the in service hours, the clinical director may assign or request special tasks and office support. Students must demonstrate assertive and professional attitude: hostile interactions are not accepted among/between students/interns or staff.

Confidentiality is a critical issue and one that we make every effort to respect. No unauthorized persons are allowed into the clinic’s offices or behind the one way mirror. Under no circumstances are case files, video or audio recordings allowed outside the clinic. Cases should never be discussed in the halls, or outside the clinic. Additionally, students should never discuss clinical cases through electronic communications.

The consultation rooms are exclusively utilized for therapy or assessment. The reports and academics tasks should be completed in the student’s common room. Students are not allowed to eat, drink, or smoke in the consultation rooms. The use of social networks during service hours is prohibited. It’s the Clinic’s policy to forbid interns’ family members or friends at the Clinic’s facilities. All consultation rooms, clinical material, and supplies office should be organized and cleaned after each use. The access to storage area is limited to the Clinic

Director and administrative assistant or designate authority. The graduate students and staff should always use a moderate voice level; avoid jokes or inappropriate laughter when

participants are present in any clinical area. Access to any clinical area outside service hours is prohibited. Only the clinical director and authorized personnel may have access during these periods. Failure to comply with the behavior code will result in: a first offense will be followed by a verbal reprimand; a second offense by a memo to the intern’s file, and; a third offense by a direct memo to the clinic director, internship coordinator and graduate psychology associate dean.

Dress Code

The way in which trainees dress to attend their clinical sites have particular significance at different levels. Adequate clothing transmits a sense of professionalism and respect for patients and for the professional staff at the training site. Attire should be consonant with the settings of practice, weather, and time of day. Female and male basic dress attire should be black in color and male students are encouraged to consider using long or short sleeves shirt and a tie. Shorts, sneakers, jeans, skin-tight female pants that expose portions of the body are unacceptable clothes to be worn at any of the clinical sites. However, when working with children is predominant, less formal clothing are usually permitted as well as when the specific situation requires it.

Supervisors

The Intern’s Supervisors are doctoral level psychologists who are actively licensed as a psychologist by the Board of Examiners in the jurisdiction of Puerto Rico. APPIC (2012) believes supervisor expectations should be similar to intern expectations. It is expected that during the year interns receive supervision from at least two different supervisors. Interns primary clinical supervision and role modeling is provided by psychologists in the program who are officially designated as psychology intern supervisors. They are significantly involved in the operation of the training program. Regularly scheduled individual supervision is provided by one or more doctoral level licensed psychologists, at a ratio of no less than one hour of supervision for every 20 internship hours. Supervision is provided with the specific intent of dealing with psychological services rendered directly by the intern.

Intern supervisors are clearly designated by the Clinic as responsible for the cases (for example, countersigning documentation or having their name on the treatment plan or case summary). Depending on the needs increased hours of supervision are expected.

The primary responsibilities of all clinical supervisors are to:

 provide guidance and advice to students throughout their training and serve as professional mentors;

 enable students to become familiar with the Clinic’s policies and procedures;

 be responsible for gradually developing interns’ experiences that will prepare them to assume entry levels responsibilities within the field of professional Counseling

Psychology;

 discuss, and sign with each assigned intern the Intern Contract and provide the expected amount of weekly individual supervision, and review on a regular basis the cases assigned to each intern;

 verify that interns complete all forms required by the Clinic. They should also address through the supervision sessions scientific and evidence based practices in the counseling psychology practice and any professional ethics issues that arise and provide guidance and encouragement to the student to progressively assume an independent clinical function and keep the students.

Interns and Supervisors Evaluation

Besides being evaluated by clinical supervisors, interns are responsible for evaluating each supervisor with whom they have worked each semester. Interns’ evaluations must be turned in on the appropriate due date. For the intern’s evaluation form see appendix C and for the clinical supervisor evaluation form see appendix E. The interns and supervisors evaluations are based on APPIC criteria. APPIC (2012) includes a written evaluation process that provides comprehensive evaluative feedback to graduate students.

The evaluation provides a summary of performance in all major competence areas that are the focus of the internship training. Interns have the opportunity to review their evaluation with supervisors to ensure the fullest possible communication between supervisors and interns. Evaluation procedures provide feedback that validates trainees' achievements by noting areas of unusual strength and excellence and facilitate trainees' further growth by identifying areas that would benefit from additional training. The program provides the doctoral psychology intern's graduate training director with feedback concerning the intern's progress in the internship program.

Internship Clinical Activity Log

Interns are responsible for keeping a log of their own hours through the website

U

www.mypsychtrack.comU . Interns must send the documentation to the supervisor for

verification. A report must be sent, via email, to the Internship Coordinator every three months.

Due Process, Grievance Procedure and Dismissal from the Internship

T

(1) concerns about intern performance, and (2) interns' concerns about training.

These procedures include the steps of notice, hearing, and appeal, and are given to the interns at the beginning of the training period.

The program has two written policies: (1) Due Process and (2) Grievance Process. The procedures must be specific for the internship training program since reliance on a more general Human Recourses (HR) policy is insufficient. Both procedures are provided to interns at the commencement of their training. Due Process is a written procedure that comes into use when an intern’s behavior is problematic.

Due Process:

UT guarantees the rights of students to challenge and appeal to any conflicting situation that may arise in the course of training. The UT Student Handbook includes the university’s due process. However, a more specific due process is in place to address particular situations pertaining to the internship program. The due process applicable to the UTPSC Internship includes three main elements:

1. Notice

a. The intern is notified in writing that problematic behavior has been identified and corrective action will be taken to address the problem.

2. Hearing

a. The program has a formal process where the intern with the identified problematic behavior has an opportunity to listen and respond to the concerns.

3. Appeal

a. The intern has the opportunity to appeal the actions taken by the program in regards to the identified problematic behavior. The appeal should extend at least one step beyond the Internship Coordinator.

In the event that a supervisor or staff member suspects that a student is not achieving the expected levels of development of critical competencies or is presenting problematic behavior in the training site, the following steps will be taken:

1. The supervisor will meet with the student.

2. If the issue is not solved, the supervisor will bring the situation to the attention of the Internship Coordinator and discuss the matter with him/her.

3. The Internship Coordinator will meet with the student and with the supervisor or staff person who raised the concern to discuss the issue. The result of this meeting will be documented and if applicable, a remedial plan will be drawn to address the situation. The meeting proceeds or remedial plan will be presented in writing to the intern by the internship coordinator.

4. The student will be allowed to respond to the proposed action and may request an appeal hearing to the Psychology and Social Work Associate Dean. The Associate Dean will appoint an appeal Committee.

Appeal Process

1. If the Intern is not satisfied with the process, and a mutual agreeable decision cannot be reached the student may request an appeal to the Psychology and Social Work

Associate Dean.

2. The Associate Dean will appoint a Committee with two faculty members and the Doctoral Program coordinator, who will chair the Committee.

3. The student may bring a witness or supporting documents to the appeal session. 4. The decision of the Committee will be formally provided to the intern in writing. The

trainee will sign the document that validates the decision. The committee courses of action may include: return to the internship, written reprimand, referral to psychological assessment/intervention, leave of absence or dismissal.

5. If it is determined necessary to refer the intern for psychological assessment or intervention, the referral will be made to a qualified psychologist or mental health professional that has no personal or professional connection with the Internship

program. A list of acceptable professionals will be made available to the student, who in turn will be allowed to make the final selection of a professional. The student is

responsible for any cost incurred in the required assessment or intervention. Depending on the result of the psychological assessment, the student may be asked to:

a. take a leave of absence (the length of time will be determined by the internship coordinator and primary supervisor in order to attempt to improve/resolve the problem)

b. resign from the Internship, or c. return to internship program

6. After the leave of absence has terminated and/or other specified progress evaluation has been made, the internship coordinator and primary supervisor will meet again to evaluate the outcome of the intervention, and to decide on further actions, including allowing the student to continue in the internship program. To determine the student’s fitness to remain in the program, the clinic director, internship coordinator and supervisor may require the student to obtain a certificate from the treatment source authorizing a return to the internship program.

7. If at any point during the process the intern fails to comply with any of the evaluation requirements, rehabilitation, or remediation plan, the intern may be dismissed from the program.

8. The student may opt to resign from the program without submitting to the psychological assessment, the leave of absence, or the specified remediation/rehabilitation plan. In such a case, the intern would be informed in writing that future re-admittance to the internship or practicum time is not an option. A copy of the letter would be placed in the intern’s file. The intern would be identified as having resigned from the program in poor standing.

9. If the situation is not solved to the satisfaction of the intern at the appeal level, the due process presented in the UT Student Handbook will be used.

Grievance Procedure

Grievance procedure is a process by which an intern files a complaint against the training program or one of its staff members. The grievance procedure includes specific steps / reasons for grievance that include:

1. violation of professional ethical or legal standard

2. incompetence to perform typical services in this setting and inability to attain

competence during the internship and practicums, relative to the core competencies and training goals specified in this manual

3. failure to meet the minimum standards for clinical care, didactic training, or maintenance of appropriate professional records

4. unsuitable behavior that hampers the intern or practicum student’s professional performance.

There may be occasions when a student has a complaint against a supervisor, or a complaint about some other aspect of the training experience. In such a case, the following sequences of actions may be taken:

1. The student is encouraged to bring the issue to the attention of his/her supervisor or the other party involved, in an effort to solve the problem. A previous meeting with the clinic director and/or the internship coordinator is not required. If the student requests a meeting, it would be planned to help the student think about how to articulate concerns and define possible goals, facilitate skillful handling of conflicts, etc.

2. In most cases, if discussion with the supervisor or other party does not lead to a

satisfactory resolution of the problem, the student is encouraged to bring this concern to the clinic director or internship coordinator. They will work in various ways to help address the concern. Typically this would include meeting with the student and

supervisor or the other party involved to resolve the problem, but as deemed necessary, other approaches might be selected. If the clinic director or the internship coordinator is unable to solve the problem, the Psychology and Social Work Associate Dean will be notified of the problem and offered an opportunity to resolve it.

3. There may be problems when the student does not want to directly address the clinic director or internship coordinator (if the grievance directly involves an action of the clinic director or internship coordinator). In such a case, the student is encouraged to select a staff member whom he/she trusts could provide consultation and direction. If the student chooses a staff member, that person will determine as quickly as possible whether the student’s grievance may be potentially resolved without the intervention of the intern’s supervisor or of the clinic director or internship coordinator. If such authority is required, the staff member will assist the student in presenting the grievance to the Psychology and Social Work Associate Dean, assuming that there is a reason for it not to be brought directly to the clinic director. Interns can also decide to follow this procedure without the assistance of a supervisor.

4. If the problem persists the next step will include the following: pursuing disciplinary action against the supervisor or other party, or informing the intern that the grievance

does not have the proper support and that he/she needs to approach the situation differently. If the intern or other party is not satisfied with the decision, it may be appealed to the Psychology and Social Work Associate Dean.

5. If the intern has sought guidance from another staff member, that person will act in lieu of the clinic director by meeting conjointly with the student and party against whom the grievance has been brought to achieve a mutual agreement. If an agreement cannot be reached, the staff member will form a committee to help resolve the grievance. The committee should involve at least three members deemed potentially helpful. The committee will follow the actions described above in attempting to work an equitable resolution for the student’s grievance. As stated previously, if the intern or other party is not satisfied with the decision, it may be appealed to the Psychology and Social Work Associate Dean.

6. If the intern has sought guidance from the alternative dispute resolution process, and a mutually agreeable decision cannot be reached, the grievance will be brought directly to the Psychology and Social Work Associate Dean for resolution.

7. If the situation is not solved to the satisfaction of the intern at the associate dean level, the due process presented in the UT Student Handbook will be applied.

Non-Discrimination Disclosure

Notice of Non-discrimination: The UTPSC Internship Program accepts applicants from any race, color, sex, age, non-disqualifying disability, religion or creed, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school, and does not discriminate in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

Appendix A: Application Form

Universidad del Turabo

School of Social Science

Psychology Service Clinic

To apply to the UT Psychology Service Clinic Internship program you must fill out the APPI online application at www.appic.org before December 5.

Documents Required for the AAPI Application 1. Psychology Practicum Hours 2. Curriculum Vitae

3. Three letters of recommendations (from professors, supervisors or professional) 4. Official School Transcript

Additional Documents Required 1. Case conceptualization

2. Psychological Assessment Integrated Report

This additional information must be uploaded to the AAPI application. Candidates must be aware to not provide information that can identify the client’s report or case conceptualization that could compromise confidentiality

Universidad de l Turabo

School of Social Science

Psychology Service Clinic

Internship Program

Goal 1: To develop in each intern advanced levels of competence in the psychological assessment, diagnostic process and counseling, and psychotherapy intervention.

Objective 1: The intern will develop advanced psychological evaluation skills in the selection, administration, interpretation, and report writing using data from various sources.

Measure: Evaluation of Psychological Assessment Process Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Objective 2: The intern will develop advanced skills in conducting psycho-diagnostic assessment by integrating data from various sources.

Measure: Evaluation of Psychological Assessment Process Measure: Evaluation of Case Conceptualization Process Measure: Case Presentation Evaluation Form

Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Objective 3: The intern will develop advanced levels of competence in conducting several Evidence-Based psychotherapeutic (individual, group, family, marital, etc.) interventions according to case conceptualization, formulated diagnosis, and the treatment plan designed to address the client’s difficulties.

Measure: Evaluation of Case Conceptualization Process Measure: Case Presentation Evaluation Form

Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Goal 2: Interns will consolidate their skills to effectively integrate research and practice as well as apply scholarly inquiry skills in their psychotherapeutic intervention.

Objective 1: Interns will develop an advanced level of competence in evaluating and applying current research to their clinical practice.

Measure: Evaluation of Case Conceptualization Process Measure: Case Presentation Evaluation Form

Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Goal 3: Interns will demonstrate an advanced awareness and sensitivity to issues of diversity. Objective 1: The intern will develop advanced levels of diversity awareness, including attitudes of respect, and will acquire the skills needed to respond appropriately to all clinical and professional situations related to diversity issues.

Measure: Evaluation of Case Conceptualization Process Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Goal 4: Interns will integrate ethical standards in the practice of professional psychology following the Code of Ethics of the Puerto Rico Psychology Board, APA Code of Ethics and all applicable laws and regulations.

Objective 1: Interns will consolidate their skills in managing complex ethical situations needing ethical reasoning and decision-making.

Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Goal 5: Interns will develop consultation, teaching, and supervision competencies applicable to professional, academic, and clinical contexts.

Objective 1: Interns will develop the ability to utilize appropriate teaching and

supervision models and strategies through their experiences supervising master’s level psychology students who are beginning their clinical training.

Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Objective 2: Interns will develop skills in consulting with other professionals and referral sources using contemporary consultation models and strategies.

Measure: Professor Evaluation

Objective 3: Interns will develop a general sense of mental health administration philosophy, strategies and techniques by assuming responsibility for their caseload, participating in the clinic’s staff meetings and by attending conferences and workshops on supervision and administration.

Measure: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Appendix C: Assessment of Intern Competencies

Universidad del Turabo

School of Social Science

Psychology Service Clinic

Internship Program

ASSESSMENT OF INTERN’S COMPETENCIES

Student: ________________________________ _________ Supervisor: _______________________________________ Period of Supervision: ______ Mid Term _______Final

Instructions

Please rate each item according to the scale provided and sign in the appropriate signature block and return this form to the Practicum Coordinator. Please discuss all of these ratings with the student, and compare the student’s self-assessment on these dimensions to your ratings. In your feedback, it is important to give specific examples if you have concerns about progress; it is also important to give clear examples of what you think the student does well. Please use the feedback sessions to plan what you and the student would like to emphasize in his/her

continued training. If there are significant concerns about performance on any dimensions, you need to decide whether the student is passing at this point in the training (see target goals in each signature block). If not, please contact the Practicum Coordinator as soon as possible. Please indicate below what modalities/work samples you have used to obtain information for making your evaluations.

__ Observation during team meetings __ Review of written work samples

__ Consultation with other clinical supervisors __ Consultation with team members other staff __ Role Play

__ Student’s self-report __ Audio record

__ Video record __ One way mirror

__ Direct, live observation

Supervisor:

Use the scale below to make ratings from 1 to 10. Track-specific competencies may be added. To obtain that rating, within the past month, the student should consistently display the specific quality/skill in every clinical area and/or know when he/she needs to consult.

Interns:

Use these self-assessments to guide development of training plan.

Scale

1-2 (Novice) = Inexperienced in this capacity and still developing basic skills; cannot identify problems but open to discussion in supervision

3-5(Intermediate) = Developing some skills to function independently; can identify problems to discuss in supervision.

6-8 (Advance) = Functions independently most of the time requires supervision for difficult 9-10 (Proficient) = Student functions fully independently in this capacity at almost all times U (unsatisfactory) = Student is experiencing significant difficulties in developing skills to function independently in this capacity and is unable/unwilling to discuss problems in supervision or change practices according to suggestions.

Competencies

Psychological Assessment, Diagnosis and Counseling

Middle Middle Final Final

AREAS Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

1. Understand differential diagnosis and

case conceptualization.

2. Select and administer appropriate test. 3. Interpret and integrate test result. 4. Write clear, organized reports. 5. Develop adequate conceptualizations. 6. Facilitate development of specific

achievable therapeutic goals.

7. Develop action steps for the

achievement of goals.

8. Match the person’s with resources as

needed.

9. Recognize unique and shared skills

and roles of other professions.

Comments Mid Term Total Final Average Total

Evidence Based Interventions

Middle Middle Final Final

AREAS Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

10. Develop and maintain a positive

working alliance:

a. actively listen to enhance

understanding

b. instill hope

c. provide support

d. be directive, give advice and set

limits when appropriate

e. be collaborative in goal setting and

treatment planning.

11. Facilitate appropriate expression of

emotions.

12. Enhance a person’s understanding /

emotional instability:

a. provide appropriate

psycho-education

b. normalize emotional reactions

when appropriate.

13. Use empirically supported

psychotherapeutic techniques:

a. describe theoretical basis and

goals of chosen treatment approach b. formulate goals/problems

consistent with treatment approach c. structure therapy sessions

consistent with treatment approach d. modify treatment plan based on

ongoing evaluation.

14. Use homework effectively.

15. Conduct appropriate therapy

termination.

16. Group therapy skills and preparation: a. promote group interaction b. structure and manage time

efficiently

c. develop and maintain a positive

working alliance

d. instill hope, provide support, set

limit when appropriate

e. instill emotional expression f. interact with co-therapist in

planning.

Comments:

Mid Term

Law and Ethics

Middle Middle Final Final

AREAS Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

17. Work in an ethical manner in

accordance with the ethics code and all relevant laws.

18. Maintain appropriate professionalism

and boundaries.

19. Recognize limits of one’s own expertise and seek appropriate consultation.

20. Assess person’s at- risk and

intervene appropriately.

21. Maintain the person’s confidentiality.

Comments Mid Term Total Final Total Cultural Diversity

Middle Middle Final Final

AREAS Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

22. Support the inclusion of all persons 23. Cultivate awareness of one’s own

biases and limitations; seek consultation as needed.

24. Assess cultural factors to ensure

formulation of relevant treatment. 25. Conduct treatment in preferred

communication style and language of the person.

26. Remove institutional barriers to

participation by all persons.

27. Teach persons the necessary skills to

overcome cultural barriers.

Comments

Supervision

Middle Middle Final Final

AREAS Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

28. Be aware of one’s limitations; seek consultation or suggest alternative supervision plans as appropriate.

29. Possess sufficient knowledge to provide guidance and legal/ethical issues to supervisee or other providers.

30. Maintain an effective, professional

supervisory relationship.

31. Recognize the precedence of the person’s well-being over your own (or supervisee) wishes.

32. Be well prepared for supervision (e.g.

prepares video, etc.).

33. Integrate and implement supervisor

feedback.

34. Be willing to discuss problem areas

and accept constructive criticism.

Comments

Mid Term _Total Final Total

Organization Management and Administration

Middle Middle Final Final

AREAS Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

35. Write timely, complete progress notes

and reports.

36. Complete administrative tasks on time. 37. Use time management skills to prioritize. 38. Attend required meetings regularly. 39. Interact effectively with administrative

staff and manage conflict.

40. Maintain caseload with appropriate number of attended persons and weekly visits. Comments Mid Term Total Final Total

For the next table use the following rating scale Rating Explanation:

5 = Excellent: Student’s performance was at an exceptionally high level.

4 = Very Good: Student’s performance was solidly competent, clearly above average, and characterized by absence of difficulties.

3 = Good: Student’s performance was basically competent and fulfilled requirements. There were no major problems and the work was adequate.

2 = Satisfactory with Possible Concerns: Student’s performance was acceptable, but there were some weaknesses or concerns which, though minor, might require some remediation or corrective action, as noted in the comment section.

1 = Satisfactory with Concerns: Student’s performance was minimally acceptable; there was a major problem or some minor difficulties that identify a need for

remediation/corrective action, as noted in the comment section.

0 = Unsatisfactory: Student’s performance was unacceptable; there were several major problems that identify a need for remediation/corrective action, as noted in the comment section.

Competency of Relations

Middle Middle Final Final

Dimension Student Supervisor Student Supervisor

41. Respectful Interpersonal Behavior Towards Supervisor(s) Peers

42. Punctuality/Attendance

43. Level of Participation/Preparedness 44. Use/Integration of Theory with Practice 45. Clinical Sensitivity

46. Sensitivity and Awareness 47. Insight and Use of Self

48. Appropriate Affect Modulation 49. Ethical Competence

50. Professional Values and Attitudes 51. Organizational and Systems Awareness

52. Openness to Feedback

53. Written and Communication Skills Comments

Mid Term Total

Final Total

Summary of Assessment of Intern Clinical Competence

Competencies Mid Term

Points

Mid Term Percentage

Final Points Final Percentage Psychological Assessment,

Diagnosis and Counseling (90 points)

Evidence Based Interventions (200 points)

Law and Ethics (50 points) Cultural Diversity (60 points) Supervision (70 points)

Organization Management and Administration (60 points) Competency of Relations (65 points) Overall Evaluation (595 points)

Approval of the Internship requires, at least, 80% in each competency and in the overall evaluation performed by the supervisor.

Intern Name: ____________________________

__________________________________ ______________________

Intern Signature Date

Primary Supervisor Name: ________________________________

__________________________________ ______________________

Primary Supervisor Date

Received and filed by

__________________________________ ______________________

Appendix D: Evaluation of Professor

Universidad del Turabo

School of Social Science

Psychology Service Clinic

Internship Program

Supervisor: ________________________________ Date: _________________ Intern: ___________________________________

Please review each category and specific item on the following pages and rate according to the scale following each item. There are several examples under each item; these are provided to help you focus your assessment of skill level. However, they are not meant to be

comprehensive list of skills or to imply that supervisors need to be effective in all areas at the same level. The final rating should represent an aggregate across several skills represented by the main statement of each item. Not every item will be relevant to your settings; you can check “not applicable” as needed. There are five categories: aspect of the supervisory relationship, facilitation of training experience, mentoring, treatment team interaction and functioning and cultural and individual diversity. After you rate the specific items for each category, there is space for general comments on that category. Please enter enough narrative to anchor your ratings. Attach the appropriate signature page.

Please discuss your feedback with your supervisor(s), along with his or her feedback about you. In the feedback, it is helpful to give specific examples if you have concerns or suggestions for change. It is also helpful to give clear examples of what you think the supervisor does well. Modalities: Please indicate below what modalities you have experienced in your work with this supervisor. Check of all that are applicable:

___ Supervisor listened to your reports of services ___ Supervisor reviewed audio recordings of service ___ Supervisor reviewed videotape of service

___ Supervisor did direct, live (one way mirror) observation of service ___ Direct observation of supervisor in services

___ Experience during group supervision sessions ___ Joint participation during team meetings

___ Co-intervention conducted by Intern and Supervisor ___ Reviewed of written material

___

Other_____________________________________________________________________ Instructions: Rate in a scale from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)

Aspect of the Supervisory Relationship Rating 1. Supervisor facilitates establishment and maintenance of collaborative

supervisory relationship:

a. clearly discusses expectations regarding the supervisory relationship.

b. invites comments about the quality of the supervisory relationship on an ongoing basis.

c. responds to your feedback in a non- defensive manner. 2. Supervisor demonstrates empathy, respect, and understanding of supervisees experience:

a. understands your stated needs in an open manner, despite the limitations of the settings.

b. respects your boundaries/privacy.

c. demonstrates emphatic understanding of personal and interpersonal struggles related to the demands of the training program.

d. demonstrates sensitivity and respect of supervisees’ cultural/individual background.

3. Supervisor is physically and emotionally available for supervision: a. collaborates to schedule and adequate amount of time for supervision.

b. is available and accessible when needed including impromptu consultations and crisis.

c. helps you establish alternative source of consultation when unavailable or when specialty consultation is indicated. d. participates actively during supervision sessions.

e. communicates enthusiasm about and commitment to supervision. 4. Supervisor is amenable to working through conflicts, disagreements, or differences in opinions with supervisee:

a. supervisor openly addresses conflicts or problems in a constructive manner.

b. when conceptual disagreements arise, supervisor negotiates them in a nonjudgmental.

c. if an impasse occurs, supervisor arranges for mediation to facilitate conflict resolution.

Facilitation of Training Experience Rating 1. Works with you to reach the training goals in your clinical setting:

a. provides clear expectations for your role and performance. b. helps you to identify your own training needs and goals for rotation.

c. assists in meeting your training goals.

d. helps you to understand intern exit competencies and training goals.

2. Provide Feedback on your performance that helps you to develop your clinical skills:

a. helps you identify your specific strengths and competencies. b. provides feedback on your performance and written work is constructive and specific.

c. provides opportunities for direct supervision of your clinical work (e.g., through live observation, review of audio recordings, co-treatment).

d. facilitates your accurate self-assessment (e.g., skill level, limits of competence, and need for consultation, interpersonal interactions, diversity issues, and other blind spots).

3. Provide supervision and guidance in all stages of the treatment process: a. helps prepare you for various types of persons, problems, and staff relationship.

b. helps with case conceptualizations, treatment planning, and working through impasses in treatment.

c. helps you to recognize your emotional responses to the clinical process and address personal issues that may interfere with effectiveness.

d. helps you to understand and address termination issues. e. discusses legal and ethical standards in clinical work and helps you to apply this knowledge in clinical situations.

Cultural and Individual Diversity Rating

1. The supervisor exhibits knowledge of and respect for cultural and individual diversity in clinical intervention and research:

a. has respect for diversity and at least basic awareness of providing culturally competent services.

b. is aware of his/her limitations of knowledge of cultural and individual diversity.

c. is helpful in seeking out additional information about diverse groups and effective therapeutic interventions with persons of different backgrounds.

d. models the process of consultations with colleagues about diversity issues when needed.

backgrounds.

f. is aware of his/her own cultural identity, world view, and value system brought Comments ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Signatures: Intern___________________________________________ Date________________________ Supervisor_______________________________________ Date________________________

Internship Coordinator: _____________________________ Date________________________

Universidad del Turabo

School of Social Science

Psychology Service Clinic

Internship Program

Intern__________________________________________ Date_______________________ Primary Supervisor: ___________________________________ Training Year_____________

Please discuss all of these ratings with your supervisor and the Clinic Director. If you have concerns about any aspect of the program, please give examples.

Scale

1 - Training needs not met

2 - Training needs somewhat met 3 - Training needs adequately met 4 - Training needs exceeded

Aspect Rating

1. Overall organization of training program. 2. Workload is challenging but not excessive.

3. Training plan is meeting goals, expectations, and training needs. 4. Expectations are clear.

5. Reactions, concerns, and problems are addresses adequately. 6. Adequate feedback regarding performance and progress. 7. Adequate opportunity for skills development.

8. Sufficient opportunity for input into training needs. 9. Environment is conducive to learning.

10. Environment is conducive to interrelationships among interns. 11. Resources are adequate (e.g., space, computers, and supplies).

12. Treated in a professional manner.

13. Effective working relationships with support staff. 14. Amount of supervision support and availability. 15. Didactic experience and literature resources. 16. Opportunities training and support for clinical work.

17. Opportunities, training and support for teaching/supervision. 18. Opportunities training and support for research.

19. Incorporating and applying knowledge of culture and other diversity issues in training.

20. Training in professional, ethical and legal issues. 21. Overall satisfaction with program structure.

Comments ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________  Signatures Intern_______________________________________ Date____________________________ Supervisor___________________________________ Date____________________________

Internship Coordinator__________________________ Date____________________________

Clinical Director_______________________________ Date_______________________