VCUCOUNSELOREDUCATIONFACULTY
T’AirraBelcher,Ph.D.AssistantProfessor
Researchinterests:CulturalCompetency,InterprofessionalCollaboration,Diversity,Equity,and InclusioninPedagogy,InclusiveCounselingPractices
AbigailH.Conley,Ph.D.AssociateProfessor
Researchinterests: Interpersonalviolencesurvivorshipandhealing,spiritualdiversityand spiritualdevelopment,andwellnesscounseling
DonnaDockery,Ph.D.AssociateProfessor,DirectorofClinicalPractice
Researchinterests: Supportinghistoricallyunderservedstudents,psychosocialneedsofgifted adolescents,multiculturalcounselingandsocialjustice,effectivecounseloreducation
DonnaM.Gibson,Ph.D.Professor
Researchinterests: Professionalidentitydevelopmentofcounselors-in-training,doctoral students,practicingcounselors,andcounseloreducatorsaswellasleadershipdevelopmentin counselorsandcounselingleaders
DanielGutierrez,Ph.D.AssociateProfessor
Researchinterests:Cross-culturalevidence-basedmentalhealthpracticesforworkingwith marginalizedpopulationsintheircommunities,theprocessofthrivinginresponsetosignificant adversityandchronicstress,andcontemplativepracticesandspiritualityasacatalystforselfand socialtransformation.
KaitlinHinchey,Ph.D.AssistantProfessor
Researchinterests:SocialComparison,ComparisonOrientation,andStudentSelf-Efficacy; FamilyCounseling,MFTDevelopmentandFamilyTherapyConceptualization;LatinxMental Health,BilingualCounselorPreparationandServiceAccessibility
PatrickMullen,Ph.D.DepartmentChair
Researchinterests: Schoolcounseling,counseloreducationandsupervision,professional well-being,andalternativeeducationprograms
NaomiWheeler,Ph.D.AssociateProfessor
Researchinterests:relationalhealthequitytoinclude childhoodadversityandtrauma,coupleand relationshipdistress
MISSIONSTATEMENT
TheCounselorEducationprogramatVirginiaCommonwealthUniversityiscommittedto excellenceinthepreparationandcontinuingdevelopmentofprofessionalsincounselingand counseloreducation.Theprogramprovidesgraduatestudentswithresearch-basedprofessional andclinicalexperiencesnecessaryforeffectivecounseling,supervision,teaching,advocacyand leadershipindiversesettings.
August 2024
M.ED.PROGRAMDESCRIPTION
Theprogrampreparescounselorswithspecializedknowledgeandskillsforplacementinprek-12 schools,highereducationsettings,communityagenciesandindependentpractice. Wegraduate studentswithastrongprofessionalcounseloridentitywhoutilizecounselingtheory,possess multiculturalandsocialjusticecounselingcompetencies,engageinon-goingscholarlyinquiry, arecommittedtoevaluatingcounselinginterventions,andadvocatefortheclientsand communities.
ProgramObjectives
Thefollowingprogramobjectivesweredevelopedbyprogramfacultyandarerevisedwiththe inputofprogramalumni,adjunctfaculty,andcurrentstudents.
1.Studentswillobtaintheoreticalknowledgegroundedinresearchandreflectiveofcurrent nationalandstatestandardsintheareasofindividualandgroupcounseling,humandevelopment, multiculturalcounseling,wellness,andcareercounseling.
2.Studentswilldeveloptheskillsandknowledgetosupportandenhancestudents’andclients’ resiliencyfromamulticulturalframework.
3.Studentswilldemonstratetheknowledgeandskillstobecriticalconsumersofresearchin theirrolesascounselors.
4.Studentswilldevelopanddemonstrateadvocacy,socialjustice,andleadershipskillsthrough theirprofessionaldevelopmentandextracurricularlearningactivities.
5.Studentswillcontinuetheirpersonalandprofessionaldevelopmentbyadheringtothe professionalethicalcodesofprofessionalcounselingorganizationsandthecounseloreducation programdispositions.
SpecificObjectiveforEachConcentration
School6.Studentswilldemonstratecompetencyincounseling,assessment,programevaluation, andconsultationskillsinK-12schoolsettings.
CCSA6.Studentswilldemonstratecompetencyincounseling,assessment,programevaluation, andconsultationskillsinhighereducationsettings.
CFC6.Studentswilldemonstratecompetencyincounseling,assessment,programevaluation, andconsultationskillsincommunity,couples,andfamilysettings.
August 2024
ADMISSIONREQUIREMENTSANDPROCEDURES
ThefollowingcriteriasummarizetheminimumacceptablestandardsforadmissionintotheM. Ed.programinCounselorEducation. Additionaldetailsmaybefoundinthe generaladmission requirementsoftheVCUGraduateSchool.Admissiontoallgraduateprogramsiscompetitive. ApplicationsshouldbesubmittedtotheGraduateSchoolbyJanuary15forSummer admission.
1. GeneraladmissionrequirementsoftheVCUGraduateSchool.
2. Bachelor’sdegreefromanaccreditedcollegeoruniversity
3. Threelettersofrecommendationfrominstructorsorprofessionalreferencesaddressing thestudent’spotentialforgraduatestudyineducation.
4. StatementofIntent Yourpersonalstatementshouldincludeadescriptionofthe experiencesthatledyoutopursuethisdegreeaswellasyourcareergoals.Thestatement shouldalsoincludeyourperceivedaptitudeforformingeffectiveandculturallyrelevant interpersonalrelationshipswithclients.Cultureisdefinedbroadlyandincludes ability/disabilitystatus,ethnicity,race,religion/spirituality,gender,genderidentity,sexual orientation,marital/partnershipstatus,andsocioeconomicstatus.Pleasecommentonyour experiencewithdiversepopulationsinyourpersonalstatement.Alsocommentonhowyou exhibittheProfessionalPerformanceStandardsuponwhichyouwillbeevaluatedinthe programwhicharelistedinthishandbook.
5. Officialtranscriptsofallpreviouscollegework.
6. Personalinterviewisrequired.OnceallapplicationsarereviewedbytheCounselor EducationProgramfaculty,selectedapplicantswillbeinvitedinlateJanuary/earlyFebruary foragroupinterviewwithfaculty.Thespecificdatefortheinterviewwillbepostedonthe CounselorEducationwebsiteinearlyfall.
Alinktotheonlineapplication,othersupplementalformsandinstructionsforapplyingtoall graduateprogramsareavailableontheGraduateAdmissionswebsiteat https://www.vcu.edu/admissions/apply/graduate/ Anonrefundableapplicationfeemust accompanyeachapplication.Thisfeewillnotbecreditedtowardtuitionpayment.
TheVCUGraduateSchoolBulletinprovidesadditionalstandardsforallgraduatestudents.You canviewtheBulletininitsentiretyontheVCUwebsiteat www.pubapps.vcu.edu/bulletins/graduate
NON-DEGREESEEKINGSTUDENTS
VCU’sCounselorEducationProgramallowsnon-degreeseekingstudentstheabilitytoenroll intoselectmaster-levelcoursesonly.Applicantsmustmeetgeneraladmissionsrequirementsof theGraduateSchool,andmusthavemetallprerequisitesforthecoursesinwhichtheyseek enrollment.Inmostcases,non-degreeseekingstudentsarenoteligibleforfinancialaidgivenit isnotpartofadegreeprogram.Someofthereasonsindividualsmaychoosethisoptioninclude:
1. tocompletecertificationrequirementstobecomeaLicensedProfessionalCounselor (pleaseconsulttheappropriateLicensureBoardforspecificrequirements)
2. toenrichtheirprofessionaldevelopment.
August 2024
3. pendingadmissiontoVCU’sM.Ed.CounselorEducationProgram(6Hourmaximum).
Creditsearnedinthenon-degreecategoryarenotordinarilyrequirementsfordegrees.If subsequently,astudentclassifiedasnon-degreeisacceptedintoadegreeprogram,thestudent maybypetition,ifapproved,carryforwardnotmorethan(6)semesterhoursofcreditearnedas anon-degreestudent.
CoursesEligibleforNon-DegreeSeekingStudents
TheCounselorEducationProgramrestrictsnon-degreestudentstodesignatedMaster-level coursesonly.Pleasenotethatenrollmentisbasedoncapacityavailableinthecourse,and non-degreestudentsmusthavetheapprovaloftheCourseInstructortoenrollinaclass.The followingcoursesareeligiblefornon-degreeseekingstudents.
FallSemester
CLED601.TheoriesofCounseling.3Hours.
CLED605.CareerCounseling.3Hours
CLED650.AddictionCounseling.3Hours.
SpringSemester
CLED612.SeminarinCounseling(Wellness).3Hours.
CLED660.MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning.3Hours. SummerSession
CLED600.ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling.3Hours.
CLED640.Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling.3Hours.
Coursedescriptionsarelocatedhttp://bulletin.vcu.edu/azcourses/cled/
INTERNATIONALSTUDENTS
Theuniversityencouragesqualifiedinternationalstudents,bothnonimmigrantandimmigrant,to seekadmissiontoVCU.Completeinformationandapplicationmaterialsforinternational studentsmaybeobtainedonlineatwww.vcu.edu/oie/ia.TheVirginiaDepartmentofEducation requiresapplicantsforlicensureasSchoolCounselorsinVirginiatoprovidetheirSocialSecurity numbersasapartoftheapplicationprocess.
STUDENTRECRUITMENTPOLICY
TheVCUDepartmentofCounselorEducationencouragestherecruitment,acceptance,and enrollmentofunderservedpopulations. Effortsaremadetoensurethatthecounselingprogram isdiverseintermsofage,gender,ethnicity,race,sexualorientation,socioeconomicstatus,and disability. Membersofunderservedpopulationsareencouragedtoseekadmissiontothe department.
August 2024
COUNSELOREDUCATIONM.ED.PROGRAMORIENTATIONAND ADVISING
Amandatoryorientationsessionforallnewcounseloreducationstudentsisprovidedinthe Springpriortothesummerstartintheprogram.Orientationtotheprogramandtothecounseling professionisalsoprovidedintheIntroductiontoCounselingcourse(CLED600),arequirement forallstudents. Inadditiontotheorientation,allstudentswillbeassignedafacultyadvisoronce admitted.Theprogramfacultyoffergroupadvisingeachsemester.Studentsareresponsiblefor contactingtheiradvisorwhileenrolledatwhichtimeadvisorswillprovidestudentswith informationaboutacademic(i.e.,studentlearningoutcomes,keyassessments)andnon-academic (i.e.,studentperformancereviewandfacultyfeedback)indicatorsoftheirprogress.Advisors mayalsocontactstudentsifadditionalmeetingsarerequired. Studentsareresponsiblefor keepingcopiesofallsyllabithatmaybeneededforfuturelicensure/certification applicationsandwhenpursuingadditionalgraduatestudies.
M.ED.PROGRAMSOFSTUDY
TheM.Ed.inCounselorEducationisa60-hourprogramthatrequiresatleasttwoyearsto complete. TheCounselorEducationDepartmentoffersthreetracks,theSchoolCounseling Track,theCollegeCounselingandStudentAffairsTrack,andtheCouplesandFamilyTrack. Successfulcompletionofoneoftheseprogramtrackswillleadtolicensureeligibilityor certificationincounseling. Moreinformationontheseprocessesareoutlinedbelowbyprogram trackandinthelicensureandcertificationsection.
A. School Counseling Track
TheM.Ed.incounseloreducationwithaconcentrationinschoolcounselingisa60-credit-hour programdesignedtopreparecounselorsforelementary,middleandhighschools.Theschool counselingconcentrationleadstoschoolcounselinglicensureandpreparationforadvanced graduateworkatthepost-master’slevel.TheprogramisaccreditedbytheCouncilfor AccreditationofCounselingandRelatedPrograms(CACREP)andrequiresaminimumoftwo yearsofstudytocomplete.
Theschoolcounselingconcentrationpreparesstudentsforpositionsasschoolcounselors. Studentswhosuccessfullycompletetheprogramareeligibleforlicensureorprovisional licensureasschoolcounselorsinpk-12settings.Inadditiontomeetingtheacademic requirementsdelineatedbelow,studentsintheSchoolCounselingconcentrationmustsupply proofofcompletionforChildAbuseRecognitionandInterventionTraining,EmergencyFirst Aid,CPR(includingHands-onPractice),andAEDTraining/Certification,BehaviorIntervention andSupportTraining,andtheDyslexiaAwarenessTrainingModule.TheVirginiaDepartmentof EducationrequiresapplicantsforlicensureasSchoolCounselorsinVirginiatoprovidetheir SocialSecuritynumbersasapartoftheapplicationprocess.
Inadditiontoschoolcounselinglicensure,thecoursesequencealsomeetstheeducational requirementsfortheLicensedProfessionalCounselor(LPC)assetbythestateofVirginia DepartmentofHealthProfessions.
August 2024
ProgramCore(48credithours)
CLED600 ProfessionalOrientation&EthicalPracticeinCounseling
CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling:ServiceLearning
CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
CLED604 Practicum:SchoolCounseling
CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
CLED607 MulticulturalCounselinginEducationalSettings
CLED612 WellnessCounseling
CLED613 Data-drivenComprehensiveSchoolCounseling
CLED622 SchoolCounselingServices
CLED640 Marriage,Couple,andFamilyCounseling
CLED650 AddictionsCounseling
CLED660 DiagnosisandTreatment
CLED672 Internship: pk-12SchoolCounseling(sixcredits)
FoundationofEducationCourses(9credithours)
CLED/EDUS615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
EDUS673 SeminaronEducationalIssues,Ethics,andPolicy
ApprovedElectives(3credithours)
Total(60credithours)
ProgramPlanning–SequenceofCoursesSchoolCounselingTrack
● CLED600(requiredasprerequisiteorcorequisiteforallotherCLEDcourses)
● CLED601(requiredasprerequisiteorcorequisiteforallotherCLEDcourses;canbetaken withCLED600)
● CLED602(canbetakenwithCLED600andCLED601;mustbetakenbeforeCLED604 Practicum)
● CLED603(canbetakenwithCLED600andCLED601;mustbetakenpriortoCLED604 Practicum)
● CLED613ORCLED622mustbetakenbeforeCLED604Practicum.
● CLED604(mustbetakenbeforeCLED672Internship)
B. College Counseling and Student Affairs Track
TheM.Ed.incounseloreducationwithaconcentrationinCollegeCounselingandStudent Affairsisa60-credithourprogramdesignedtopreparestudentsforcareersascritically reflectivecounselorswithspecializedknowledgeandskillsrequiredforplacementinhigher educationinstitutions(i.e.,college,universities).TheprogramisaccreditedbytheCouncilfor August 2024
AccreditationofCounselingandRelatedPrograms(CACREP)andrequiresaminimumoftwo yearsofstudytocomplete.
Throughcourseworkandclinicalexperiences,studentsgraduatehavingaknowledgeofbasic counselingtheoryandpractice,competenciesinessentialcounselingservices,skillsnecessaryto evaluateevidence-basedresearchandimplementitinpractice,andadedicationtocontinuing professionaldevelopment.Theirprofessionalidentityasaprofessionalcounselorasaleaderand advocatecomesfromapplyingthisknowledgeindiversesettingswithdiversepopulationsof adultlearnersinhighereducation.
ThecoursesequencemeetstheeducationalrequirementsfortheLicensedProfessional Counselor(LPC)assetbythestateofVirginiaDepartmentofHealthProfessions.TheCollege CounselingandStudentAffairsconcentrationmeetsthelicensurerequirementsforotherstates; however,certainstateshavedifferentrequirements.Itistheresponsibilityofthestudenttocheck withthestatelicensureboardtoverifythenecessaryrequirementstobeeligibleforlicensureand toplanonmeetingthoserequirements.
ProgramCore(45credithours)
CLED600 ProfessionalOrientation&EthicalPracticeinCounseling
CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling:ServiceLearning
CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
CLED607 MulticulturalCounselinginEducationalSettings
CLED608 Practicum:CollegeStudentDevelopmentandCounseling
CLED612 WellnessCounseling
CLED620 StudentDevelopmentServicesinHigherEducation
CLED640 Marriage,Couple,andFamilyCounseling
CLED650 AddictionsCounseling
CLED660 DiagnosisandTreatment
CLED672 Internship:CollegeCounseling&StudentAffairs(sixcredits)
FoundationCourses(9credithours)
CLED/EDUS615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
EDUS/CLED631 AmericanCollegesandUniversities
EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
ApprovedElectives(6credithours)
Total(60credithours)
ProgramPlanning–SequenceofCoursesCollegeCounselingandStudentAffairsTrack
● CLED600(requiredasprerequisiteorcorequisiteforallotherCLEDcourses)
● CLED601(requiredasprerequisiteorcorequisiteforallotherCLEDcourses;canbe takenwithCLED600)
August 2024
● CLED602(canbetakenwithCLED600andCLED601;mustbetakenbeforeCLED 604Practicum)
● CLED603(canbetakenwithCLED600andCLED601;mustbetakenpriortoCLED 604Practicum)
● CLED608mustbetakenbeforeCLED672Internship
C. Couples and Family Counseling Track
M.Ed.incounseloreducationwithaconcentrationincouplesandfamilycounselingisa 60-credithourprogramdesignedtopreparestudentsforcareersascounselorsinclinics, healthcarecenters,schoolsandprivatepractice.Theprogramfocusesontrainingtoaddressa rangeofpersonalandprofessionalproblemsfacedbyindividuals,couplesandfamiliesthrougha systemicframework.Asournewestconcentration,weareeagertopursueaccreditationforthe couplesandfamilycounselingconcentrationwiththeCouncilforAccreditationofCounseling andRelatedPrograms(CACREP)duringournextreviewcycle.Uponsuccessfulapprovalfrom CACREP,itwillbeaddedtoourexistingaccreditedspecialtyareas(i.e.,schoolcounseling, collegecounselingandstudentaffairsconcentrations).PerCACREPpolicy,studentswho graduatefromthisconcentrationupto18monthspriortoaccreditationwouldberecognizedas graduatesofaCACREP-accreditedprogram.
ThecoursesequencemeetstheeducationalrequirementsforboththeLicensedProfessional Counselor(LPC)andLicensedMarriageandFamilyTherapist(LMFT)assetbythestateof VirginiaDepartmentofHealthProfessions.TheCoupleandFamilyCounselingconcentration meetsthelicensurerequirementsforotherstates;however,certainstateshavedifferent requirements.Itistheresponsibilityofthestudenttocheckwiththestatelicensureboardto verifythenecessaryrequirementstobeeligibleforlicensureandtoplanonmeetingthose requirements.Theprogramrequiresaminimumoftwoyearsofstudytocomplete.
ProgramCore(42credithours)
CLED600 ProfessionalOrientation&EthicalPracticeinCounseling
CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling:ServiceLearning
CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
CLED607 MulticulturalCounselinginEducationalSettings
CLED609 Practicum:CouplesandFamilyCounseling
CLED612 WellnessCounseling
CLED640 Marriage,Couples,andFamilyCounseling
CLED650 Addictions
CLED660 DiagnosisandTreatment
CLED672 Internship:CouplesandFamilyCounseling(sixcredits)
FoundationCourses(15credithours)
CLED/EDUS615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation August 2024
CLED644 SexualityCounseling
CLED645 CouplesCounseling
CLED641 AdvancedFamilyCounseling
ApprovedElectives(3credithours)
Total(60credithours)
ProgramPlanning–SequenceofCoursesCouplesandFamilyCounselingTrack
● CLED600(requiredasprerequisiteorcorequisiteforallotherCLEDcoursesexcept CLED640)
● CLED601(requiredasprerequisiteorcorequisiteforallotherCLEDcourses;canbe takenwithCLED600,exceptCLED640)
● CLED602(canbetakenwithCLED600andCLED601;mustbetakenbeforeCLED 609Practicum)
● CLED603(canbetakenwithCLED600andCLED601;mustbetakenpriortoCLED 609Practicum)
● CLED609mustbetakenbeforeCLED672Internship
COURSEDESCRIPTIONS
CounselorEducation(CLED)coursedescriptionscanbefoundintheVCUBulletin here (http://bulletin.vcu.edu/azcourses/cled/).
COURSEELECTIVES
ThefollowingcourseshavebeenreviewedandapprovedbyCounselorEducationFacultyfor studentsseekinganelectivetofulfilltheirdegreerequirementsfortheMaster’sinCounselor Education.
Pleasenotethatnotallcoursesareavailableeachsemesterandwilllikelyrequireapprovalofthe instructorteachingthecourse.Studentsareencouragedtoemailtheinstructordirectlyletting themknowthecoursefulfillsanelectivefortheirgraduateprogramandseekingpermissionto enrollinthecourse.Insomecases,theinstructormaynotbeabletograntpermissiontoregister forthecourse,sostudentsshouldbeflexibleandconsidermultipleoptions.
Coursedescriptionsarelocatedhere
CoursesintheCounselorEducationProgram(canserveaselectivesfortheSCandCCSA tracks)
CLED644.SexualityCounseling
CLED645.CouplesCounseling
CoursesintheSchoolofEducation
August 2024
ADLT688.LifespanIssuesforAdultswithLearningandBehavioralDisabilities
EDUS651.TopicsinEducation
SEDP630.TrendsinSpecialEducation
TEDU588:ClassroomManagement
TEDU528.Children'sLiteratureII
TEDU644.LeadershipTheoryandPractice
CoursesoutsidetheSchoolofEducation
ENGL601.YoungAdultLiterature
GSWS501.FeministTheory
GSWS691.TopicsinGender,SexualityandWomen'sStudies.
GVPA635:TheorizingGenderViolence
GVPA691:GenderViolenceUSPublicPolicyandPractice
RHAB614.Counseling,DeathandLoss.3Hours.
SLWK761.Interpersonalviolence.3hours.
RHAB502AmericanSignLanguageI
RHAB503AmericanSignLanguageII
RHAB633.CaseManagement.
RHAB640.Medicalandpsychosocialaspectsofdisabilities.
RHAB681-689.InstitutesandWorkshopsinRehabilitation.
PSYC678:AfricanAmericanFamiliesandChildren
TENTATIVESCHEDULEOFCOURSES
CLED600
CLED609
CLED612
CLED615
CLED601
CLED602
CLED604
CLED605
CLED640 CLED606
CLED644
EDUS660
EDUS673
CLED608
CLED609
CLED613
CLED620
EDUS/CLED631
CLED641
CLED650
EDUS660
EDUS673
CLED672:CFC
CLED603
CLED607
CLED612
CLED615
CLED622
CLED645
CLED660
CLED672
EDUS660
EDUS673
Courseofferingsdependuponstaffavailabilityandstudentenrollment. TheDepartmentcannot guaranteethateverycoursewillbeofferedasplanned. Pleasevisit http://www.pubapps.vcu.edu/scheduleofclasses/forcurrentcourseofferings.
Studentsshouldbeginonecohortscheduleandsticktothatscheduletheirentiretime. Studentswhodroporgetoffsequenceofacourseschedulemaydelaytheirgraduation.
Studentsmustmaintaincopiesofallcoursedescriptions,syllabi,assignments,andclinicalhours andlogsasmayberequiredforLPClicensureorcredentials. VCU,theSchoolofEducation, andCounselorEducationarenotresponsibleformaintainingtheserecords.
SchoolCounselingTrackCourseSequences
Pleasenotetherearethree(3)coursesequencetracksforstudentstochoosefrom,allcourse sequencesstartinthesummer.
Full-timeCourseSequence-Studentstake9-12credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein2.5 years.Studentswhochoosethisoptionshouldnotconsidertakingoutsideemploymentduetothe rigoroftheprogram.
Part-timeCourseSequence-Studentstake6-9credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein3to 3.5years.Studentswhochoosethisoptiontypicallyareworkingandwilltake4pmand7pm classes.StudentsshouldnotethatduringtheirpracticumandinternshipperiodsduringYear3, employmentwilllikelynotbeanoptiongiventheamountoftimeneededforthoseexperiences unlessyoumakearrangementswithyouremployer.
2-CourseOnlySequence-Studentstakeupto6credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein4 years.Studentswhochoosethisoptionaretypicallyalreadyworkingsignificantlyorarecurrent employeesofVCUandwanttousetheirtuitioncredit.Studentsshouldnotethatduringtheir practicumandinternshipperiodsduringYear4,employmentwilllikelynotbeanoptiongiven theamountoftimeneededforthoseexperiencesunlessyoumakearrangementswithour employer.
FullTimeCourseSequence(9-12credits/semester)
Year 1
Summer (6 credits required, up to 9 optional)
Required
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
Optional
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
FallSemester(12hours)
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
3hrs CLED613 Data-drivenComprehensiveSchoolCounselingPrograms
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(12hours)
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs CLED622 SchoolCounselingServices
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning August 2024
Year 2
SummerSemester(6-9hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
3hrs Elective*
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation(ifnottakenearlier)
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling(ifnottakenearlier)
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED604 Practicum:SchoolCounseling
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
3hrs EDUS673 Democracy,EquityandEthicsinEducation(ifnottakenearlier)
SpringSemester(9hours)
6hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling(ifnottakenearlier)
3hrs Elective* (ifnottakenearlier)
Part-TimeCourseSequence(6or9credits/semester)
Year 1 Summer
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(hours)
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning
Year 2
SummerSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
FallSemester(6-9hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED613 Data-drivenComprehensiveSchoolCounselingPrograms
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
SpringSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
3hrs CLED622 SchoolCounselingServices
3hrs Elective* Option1
Year 3
SummerSemester(3hours)
3hrs Elective* Option2
FallSemester(6hours)
3hrs EDUS673 Democracy,EquityandEthicsinEducation
3hrs CLED604 Practicum:SchoolCounseling
SpringSemester(6-9hours)
6hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs Elective* (canbetakenearlier)
2-Course Only Sequence (max 6 credits/semester)
Year 1 Summer
3 hrs CLED 600 Professional Orientation and Ethical Practice in Counseling
Fall Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 601 Theories of Counseling
3 hrs CLED 602 Techniques of Counseling
Spring Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 603 Group Procedures in Counseling
3 hrs CLED 607 Multicultural Counseling In Educational Settings
Year 2
Summer Semester (6 hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
Fall Semester (6 hours)
August 2024
3 hrs CLED 606 Assessment Techniques for Counselors
3 hrs CLED 605 Career Information and Exploration
Spring Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 612 Wellness Counseling
3 hrs CLED 660 Mental Disorders, Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Year 3
Summer Semester (3 hours)
3 hrs CLED 640 Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling
Fall Semester (6 hours)
3hrs CLED613 Data-drivenComprehensiveSchoolCounselingPrograms
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED622 SchoolCounselingServices
3hrs Elective*
Year 4
Summer Semester (3-6 hours)
3 hrs EDUS 660 Research Methods in Education
Fall Semester (3 hours)
3 hrs CLED 604 Practicum: School Counseling
3 hrs EDUS 673 Democracy, Equity and Ethics in Education
Spring Semester (6 hours)
6 hrs CLED 672 Internship
CollegeCounselingandStudentAffairsTrackCourseSchedule
Pleasenotetherearethree(3)coursesequencetracksforstudentstochoosefrom.
Full-timeCourseSequence-Studentstake9-12credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein2.5 years.Studentswhochoosethisoptionshouldnotconsidertakingoutsideemploymentduetothe rigoroftheprogram.
Part-timeCourseSequence-Studentstake6-9credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein3to 3.5years.Studentswhochoosethisoptiontypicallyareworkingandwilltake4pmand7pm classes.StudentsshouldnotethatduringtheirpracticumandinternshipperiodsduringYear3, employmentwilllikelynotbeanoptiongiventheamountoftimeneededforthoseexperiences unlessyoumakearrangementswithyouremployer.
2-CourseOnlySequence-Studentstakeupto6credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein4 years.Studentswhochoosethisoptionaretypicallyalreadyworkingsignificantlyorarecurrent employeesofVCUandwanttousetheirtuitioncredit.Studentsshouldnotethatduringtheir practicumandinternshipperiodsduringYear4,employmentwilllikelynotbeanoptiongiven theamountoftimeneededforthoseexperiencesunlessyoumakearrangementswithour employer.
FullTimeCourseSequence(9-12credits/semester)
Year 1
Summer (6 credits required, up to 9 optional)
Required
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
Optional
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
FallSemester(12hours)
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
3hrs CLED620 StudentDevelopmentServicesinHigherEd(alternateswith CLED631)orequivalent
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(12hours)
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning
August 2024
Year 2
SummerSemester(6-9hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling(ifnottakenearlier)
3hrs Elective* Recommended SexualityCounseling
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED608 Practicum:CCSA
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
3hrs CLED631 AmericanCollegeandUniversity(alternateswithCLED620)
SpringSemester(9hours)
6hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling(ifnottakenearlier)
3hrs Elective*
Part-TimeCourseSequence(6or9credits/semester)
Year 1 Summer
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
3hrs CLED620 StudentDevelopmentServicesinHigherEd(alternateswith CLED631)
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
SpringSemester(hours)
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning
Year 2
SummerSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
FallSemester(6-9hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
3hrs Elective*
Year 3
SummerSemester(3hours)
3hrs Elective* Recommended SexualityCounseling
FallSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED631 AmericanCollegeandUniversity(alternateswithCLED620)
3hrs CLED608 Practicum:CCSA
SpringSemester(6-9hours)
6hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs Elective* (ifnottakenearlier)
2-Course Only Sequence (max 6 credits/semester)
Year 1 Summer
3 hrs CLED 600 Professional Orientation and Ethical Practice in Counseling
Fall Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 601 Theories of Counseling
3hrs CLED620 StudentDevelopmentServices(alternateswithCLED631)
Spring Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 612 Wellness Counseling
3 hrs CLED 607 Multicultural Counseling In Educational Settings
Year 2
Summer Semester (6 hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
Fall Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 602 Techniques of Counseling
3 hrs CLED 605 Career Information and Exploration August
Spring Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 603 Group Procedures in Counseling
3 hrs CLED 660 Mental Disorders, Diagnosis and Treatment Planning
Year 3
Summer Semester (3 hours)
3 hrs CLED 640 Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling
Fall Semester (6 hours)
3 hrs CLED 606 Assessment Techniques for Counselors
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
3hrs Elective*
Year 4
Summer Semester (3-6 hours)
3 hrs Elective* Recommend Sexuality Counseling
Fall Semester (3 hours)
3 hrs CLED 608 Practicum: CCSA
3 hrs CLED 631 American College and University (alternates with CLED 620)
Spring Semester (6 hours)
6 hrs CLED 672 Internship
CouplesandFamilyCounselingTrackCourseSchedule
Pleasenotetherearethree(3)coursesequencetracksforstudentstochoosefrom.
Full-timeCourseSequence-Studentstake9-12credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein2.5 years.Studentswhochoosethisoptionshouldnotconsidertakingoutsideemploymentduetothe rigoroftheprogram.
Part-timeCourseSequence-Studentstake6-9credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein3to 3.5years.Studentswhochoosethisoptiontypicallyareworkingandwilltake4pmand7pm classes.StudentsshouldnotethatduringtheirpracticumandinternshipperiodsduringYear3, August 2024
employmentwilllikelynotbeanoptiongiventheamountoftimeneededforthoseexperiences unlessyoumakearrangementswithyouremployer.
2-CourseOnlySequence-Studentstakeupto6credithoursasemesterandcangraduatein4 years.Studentswhochoosethisoptionaretypicallyalreadyworkingsignificantlyorarecurrent employeesofVCUandwanttousetheirtuitioncredit.Studentsshouldnotethatduringtheir practicumandinternshipperiodsduringYear4,employmentwilllikelynotbeanoptiongiven theamountoftimeneededforthoseexperiencesunlessyoumakearrangementswithour employer.
FullTimeCourseSequence*
Year1SummerSemester
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
FallSemester(12hours)
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
3hrs CLED641 AdvancedFamilyCounseling
SpringSemester(12hours)
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs CLED645 CouplesCounseling
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning
Year2
SummerSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED644 SexualityCounseling
3hrs CLED609 Practicum:CouplesandFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
3hrs CLED672 Internship
SpringSemester(9hours)
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
3hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs Elective*
Part-TimeCourseSequence(6or9credits/semester)
Year1Summer
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
Year2
SummerSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
FallSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED641 AdvancedFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED645 CouplesCounseling
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning
Year3
SummerSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED609 Practicum:CouplesandFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED644 SexualityCounseling
FallSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
SpringSemester(9hours)
3hrs CLED672 Internship
3hrs Elective*
2-CourseOnlySequence(max6credits/semester)*
Year 1 Summer
3hrs CLED640 Marriage,CouplesandFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED600 ProfessionalOrientationandEthicalPracticeinCounseling
FallSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED602 TechniquesofCounseling
3hrs CLED601 TheoriesofCounseling
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED607 MulticulturalCounselingInEducationalSettings
3hrs CLED603 GroupProceduresinCounseling
Year 2
SummerSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED615 LifespanDevelopment:AGenderPerspective
3hrs CLED612 WellnessCounseling
FallSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED606 AssessmentTechniquesforCounselors
3hrs CLED605 CareerInformationandExploration
SpringSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED660 MentalDisorders,DiagnosisandTreatmentPlanning
3hrs Elective*
Year 3
SummerSemester(6hours)
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation
3hrs CLED644 SexualityCounseling
FallSemester(6hours)
3hrs CLED641 AdvancedFamilyCounseling
3hrs CLED650 AddictionCounseling
SpringSemester(6hours)
August 2024
3hrs CLED645 CouplesCounseling
3hrs EDUS660 ResearchMethodsinEducation(ifnottakenearlier)
Year 4
SummerSemester(3hours)
3hrs CLED609 Practicum:CouplesandFamilyCounseling
FallSemester(3hours)
3hrs CLED672 Internship
SpringSemester(3hours)
3hrs CLED672 Internship
REVIEWANDREMEDIATIONPROCESSOFSTUDENTS
InadditiontomeetingtheacademicstandardssetforthintheCounselorEducationprogram, studentsareexpectedtoconductthemselvesinanethical,responsibleandprofessionalmanner Theymustbeknowledgeableofandatalltimesadheretothegeneralstandardsofprofessional ethicsandpracticesetforthbytheAmericanCounselingAssociation(ACA)aswellasthe additionalstandardssetforthforcounselingpracticeinspecificsettings(e.g.,AmericanSchool CounselorAssociation,InternationalAssociationofMarriageandFamily Counselors, AssociationforSpecialistsinGroupWork(ASGW).ThegeneralandspecificACAstandardsfor ethicalpracticearelistedontheACAwebsiteat http://www.counseling.org.Attheonsetoftheir academicprogram,studentsaredirectedtoreviewthesestandardsandseekanyclarification neededfromtheirrespectiveadvisors.
ImpairmentandLackofCompetence
Asfutureprofessionalcounselors,thefacultyexpectsstudentstobeconcernedaboutother people,tobestableandpsychologicallywelladjusted(personallyandprofessionally)without impairment,tobecapableofeffectiveinterpersonalrelationships,tobeabletoreceivefeedback willingly,andtogivefeedbackconstructively.FortheVCUcounseloreducationprogram, impairmentisindicatedwhen“studentsshowaninabilitytoinsightfullyunderstandandresolve theirownissuessothattheseissuesdonotinterferewiththetherapeuticprocess”(Bemak,Epp, &Keys,1999,p.21). Further,studentsareexpectedtobehavegenerallyinamannerthat demonstratesfitnessforaroleinthecounselingprofession.Finally,weexpectstudentstobe committedtocontinuedpersonalgrowthandprofessionaldevelopmentandtodemonstratethat commitmentthroughself-reflectionandresponsivenesstosupervisioninallactivitiesrelatedto theirdegreeprogram.Thefacultybelievesthatitisethicallyimperativethatcounselorsbe willingtodointheirownliveswhattheyasktheirclientstodointheirs.
Forallthereasonscitedabove,thefacultywillregularlymonitornotonlystudents'academic progressbutalsoselectedpersonalcharacteristicsthatwillaffecttheirperformanceinthefield. ThepurposeofthismonitoringprocessistoensurethatallgraduatesoftheVirginia CommonwealthUniversityCounselorEducationDepartmentpossessthosecharacteristics
August 2024
sufficiently.Thistypeofmonitoringwillinclude:academicprogress(viastudentstudent learningoutcomesandcounselingskills),impairment(i.e.,mentalhealthandbehavior)and professionalperformance. Inadditiontofaculty,sitesupervisors,andprofessionalstaff(i.e., VCUandfieldexperiencesites),andfellowstudentsmakingobservationsandreporting potentialstudentimpairment,studentscanalsoself-identifyforissuesregardingimpairment. TheProfessionalPerformanceStandards:
Students'fulfillmentoftenProfessionalPerformanceStandardsisreviewedbyindividualfaculty duringeachclassandattheconclusionofeachsemesterbytheVCUCounselorEducation Departmentfaculty.TheStandardsinclude:
1.Opennesstonewideas
2.Flexibility
3.Cooperativenesswithothers
4.Willingnesstoacceptandusefeedback
5.Awarenessofownimpactonothers
6.Abilitytodealwithconflict
7.Abilitytoacceptpersonalresponsibility
8.Abilitytoexpressfeelingseffectivelyandappropriately
9.Attentiontoethicalandlegalconsiderations
10.Initiativeandmotivation
TheProfessionalPerformanceReviewProcess:
EachProfessionalPerformanceStandardisratedonascaleof1(poor)to5(excellent)as describedintheCriteriaforProfessionalPerformanceStandardsEvaluation(Appendix A). Studentsreceivingaratingbelow3ononeormoreoftheProfessionalPerformancestandards willbeconsidereddeficientinprofessionalperformanceandsubjecttothefollowingprocedure:
1. Thestudentandtheissuingfaculty*willmeettodiscusstheProfessional Performanceconcern(s).ThestudentwillbepresentedwithaNotificationof ProfessionalPerformanceConcern(AppendixB)thatwilllistthedeficientrating(s), providetheissuingfaculty'sexplanationfortheratingsanddescribethespecific remedialactionstobetakentocorrecteachareaofprofessionalperformance deficiency.Ifrevisionstotheremedialplanaremadeatthismeeting,arevised NotificationofProfessionalPerformanceConcernformwillbeissuedtothestudent forreviewandsignaturewithintwoworkingdaysafterthemeeting.Signaturesof boththeissuingfacultyandthestudentwillverifytheirunderstandingofthe concerns,therequiredremedialactions,andthescheduleforcompletingthem.Both thestudentandissuingfacultywillretaincopiesofthesignedProfessional Performancecitation,andacopyshallbeforwardedtothestudent'sacademic advisor
*Note:“issuingfaculty”referseithertotheindividualprofessorwhoissuestheNotificationof ProfessionalPerformanceConcernortotheacademicadvisoriftheNotificationis issuedbymorethanonefacultymember August 2024
2. IfastudentreceivesmorethanoneNotificationofProfessionalPerformanceConcern duringtheirProgramofStudyorfailstoshowreasonableprogressinresolving deficienciespreviouslycited,theywillberequiredtomeetwiththeissuingfaculty andhisorheracademicadvisorinaccordancewiththeproceduredescribedin#1 above.Dependinguponthenatureofnewperformanceconcernsand/orthereasons forthestudent'sfailuretocomplywithpreviouslydeterminedremedialactionplans, theissuingfacultyandacademicadvisorwillconsultthefullVCUCounselor EducationFacultyregardingthedevelopmentofalternativeremedialstrategiesand/or evaluationofthestudent'sfitnessforcontinuationintheProgram.Theissuingfaculty, thestudent,andtheacademicadvisorwillretainasignedcopyofanysubsequent revisionmadetotheNotificationofProfessionalPerformanceConcern.
3. FacultywillinitiatetheProfessionalPerformanceReviewprotocolatanytimefor studentswhoknowinglyengageinillegalorunethicalactivitiesorforstudentswhose professionalperformanceisdeemedtopresentanimmediatethreattothewellbeing ofothers.Insuchcasesanddependinguponthelevelofperceivedthreat,the combinedfacultymayrecommenddiscontinuationintheProgramwithout opportunityforstudentremediation.
Note: Allfacultyrecommendationsfordenialofastudent'scontinuanceintheCounselor EducationprogramwillbeforwardedtotheDeanoftheSchoolofEducationwiththestudent retainingtherighttoappearbeforetheDean.
ThecriteriafortheprofessionalperformanceevaluationisincludedinAppendicesAandB.
ADDITIONALPROGRAMREQUIREMENTS
A. PracticumandInternship
Allmaster’sstudentsmustcompleteapracticumandinternship. Thepracticumisa100hour clinicalexperienceincludingatleast40hoursofdirectservicetoclients. Theinternshipisa600 hourclinicalexperienceincludingatleast240hoursofdirectservicetoclients. Eachcoursehas additionalrequirementsaswell.StudentsshouldrefertotheCounselorEducationClinical Handbookfordetailedinformation,deadlines,requirements,andformsrequired. Informationon fieldexperiencesapplicationsandprocessesisalsoavailabletoallcurrentstudentsonthe CanvasCounselorEducationpage.
B. Examinations
ComprehensiveExaminationfortheVCUCounselorEducationProgram
Afinal,comprehensiveexaminationisrequiredofalldegreecandidates. Inordertobeeligible totakethecomprehensiveexam,studentsmusthavecompletedEDUS660andallcounseling corecoursesexcludingPracticumandInternship. Studentsareexemptfromtheserequirements iftheyaregraduatinginthesemesterinwhichtheexamisgiven. Studentsmustbeenrolled duringthesemesterinwhichtheytaketheexam.
August 2024
Thecomprehensiveexamwillcoverthefollowingareas:
● HumanGrowthandDevelopment-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofthenature andneedsofindividualsatalldevelopmentallevels.
● SocialandCulturalFoundations-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofissuesand trendsinamulticulturalanddiversesociety.
● HelpingRelationships-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofcounselingand consultationprocesses(TheoriesandTechniques).
● GroupWork-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofgroupdevelopment,dynamics, counselingtheories,groupcounselingmethodsandskills,andothergroupwork approaches.
● CareerandLifestyleDevelopment-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofcareer developmentandrelatedlifefactors.
● Appraisal-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofindividualandgroupapproachesto assessmentandevaluation.
● ResearchandProgramEvaluation-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingoftypesof researchmethods,basicstatistics,andethicalandlegalconsiderationsinresearch.
● ProfessionalOrientationandEthics-studiesthatprovideanunderstandingofall aspectsofprofessionalfunctioningincludinghistory,roles,organizationalstructures, ethics,standards,andcredentialing(basedontheACA Code of Ethics).
Thecomprehensiveexaminationismadeupofatotalofbetween160to200questions.Students willhaveatotalof3hourstotaketheexam.Thecomprehensiveexamisgivenonceperyear: typicallyonthethirdSaturdayinMarch(Datesaresubjecttochangeifthereisaconflictwith Universityholidays.) Studentsmustapplytotaketheexamatleastoneweekpriortotheexam date.Studentswillbenotifiedaboutregisteringfortheexamviaemailapproximatelyonemonth beforetheexaminationdate.
Studentswillneedawifienabledcomputerwithaworkingcameraandmicrophone.Ensurethe followingarereadywithyourlaptop:a)wifiisworking;b)cameraandmicrophoneareworking; c)YouareabletoaccessVCU’sCanvassite;d)haveaworkingcopyoftheRespondus LockdownBrowser;ande)youhaveaquietprivatespacetoworkfor3hours.Additional instructionswillbeprovidedforstudentsthatregisterfortheexamination.Ifyouneedalaptop totaketheexam,youwillhavetheoptiontoletusknowduringtheregistrationperiod.
Studentswhodonotearnqualifyingscoreswillbeaskedtoretaketheexaminationnoearlier thanoneweekandnolaterthanonemonthaftertheinitialdate.Ifapassontheretakedoesnot occur,programfacultycanrecommendadditionaloptionsincludingbutnotlimitedtoawritten examination,anoralexamination,oracombinationofwrittenandoralexamination,as determinedbythefacultyadvisorandprogramcoordinator.
PreparingfortheComprehensiveExam
InpreparationfortheComprehensiveExam,studentsareencouragedtocreateandcollect comprehensivestudynotesfromallcourseworkinthecounseloreducationprogram.This includes,specifically:
● IntroductiontoCounseling
● ChildandAdolescent/AdultDevelopment
● TheoriesofCounseling
● TechniquesforCounseling
● GroupProceduresinCounseling
● CareerInformationandExploration
● AssessmentTechniquesinCounseling
● ResearchMethodsinEducation
● MulticulturalCounseling
● LegalandEthicalIssuesinCounseling
NationalCounselorExam(NCE)
TheNationalCounselorExam(NCE)isanoptionalexaminationforstudents.Studentsare eligibletotaketheexamaftertheygraduatefromtheprogram.Onceastudentpassestheexam, theycanimmediatelybecomeaNationallyCertifiedCounselor(NCC).Formoreinformation abouttheNCCcredential,pleasegotowww.nbcc.org/Certification TheNCEiscomprisedof 200multiplechoicequestions.
● Thisisanapplicationfornationalcertification,notjustforanexamination.
● ThefinaloutcomeofthisprocessistheNCCcredential,whichrequiresmaintenanceand updatingthroughoutone'scareer
● ThereareseveralrequirementsfortheNCCcredential,onlyoneofwhichispassingthe NationalCounselorExaminationforLicensureandCertification(NCE).
● Inmanystates,butnotall,apassingNCEscorethatisobtainedthroughthegraduate studentapplicationoptionmaybeacceptableforstatelicensure.Todeterminewhat examinationyourstateusesforlicensure,visit www.nbcc.org/directory
● Benefitsofthiscredentialincludeareferralsystem,affordableliabilityinsurance, advocacyonbehalfoftheprofession,protectionoftheintegrityofthecounseling profession,andsalarysupplementationinsomestates.
ForadditionalinformationontheNCE,visit http://www.nbcc.org/Certification/StudentInformation
C. ProgramofStudyForm
PreliminaryProgramofStudy
Studentsmustmeetwiththeiradvisortodevelopaprogramofstudyduringtheirfirstsemesterin thecounselingprogram,ornolaterthanthesemesterinwhichninecreditsareearned. Students areencouragedtomeetwiththeiradvisorregularlytoassesstheirprogresstowardsprogram completionandtoplanforfuturesemesters.PleasenotethatVCUnowusesanelectronicsystem forprogramsofstudycalledDegreeworks.Youwillautomaticallyhavethissetupupon enrollinghereatVCU.Wedohavepapercopiesofprogramofstudiesinthishandbook; however,pleasenotethesearesimplyplannersfortheelectronicversion(SeeAppendixC,D, andE)
D. CounselingandOtherRelatedStudentActivities
1.LiabilityInsuranceforSupervisedCounselingActivities
AllstudentsmustobtainprofessionalliabilityinsurancepriortoenrollinginCLED604/CLED 608/CLED609(Practicum).TheymustmaintainthisinsuranceuntilcompletionofCLED672 (Internship).InsuranceisavailablethroughmembershipintheAmericanCounseling Association,AmericanMentalHealthCounselingAssociation,orAmericanSchoolCounselor Association.Membershipisaprerequisitetoobtainingtheinsurance.Studentsmustproduce evidenceofinsurancecoveragetotheinstructorineachcourseinwhichservicedelivery activitiesareexpected.
2.Non-SupervisedCounselingActivitiesofGraduateStudents
StudentsenrolledinCounselorEducationprogramsshouldnotengageinunsupervised counselingactivities.Thispolicyappliestoanystudentenrolledinacounseloreducationdegree programapprovedbythefaculty.
E. CounselorEducationAcademicProgramStandardsandEndorsement Policy
Inordertobeawardedamaster’sdegreeinCounselorEducationandrecommendedfor credentialingandemployment,astudentmustcompleteallrequiredcoursework,fulfillall departmentanduniversityrequirements,passthecomprehensiveexamination,andobtain favorableevaluationsontheClinicalEvaluationContinuumforCounselorEducationfrom programfacultyandclinicalsupervisors.
Graduatefacultyadvisersandprogramdirectorswillreviewtheacademicprogressofall graduatestudentsintheirprogramsattheendofeachsemester.ReceiptofagradeofCorbelow intwocoursesconstitutesautomaticdismissalfromtheprogram.CourseswithagradebelowC cannotbeusedtosatisfydegreerequirements.AlthoughthegradeofUisnotincludedinthe calculationofthegraduateGPA,graduatestudentswhoreceiveoneormoregradesofUwillbe consideredforpossibletermination.
Studentswhohavecompletedallminimumdegreerequirementsbutwhoareoutofcompliance withminimumgraduationrequirementsmaybeallowed,withthepermissionoftheirgraduate facultyadvisers,programdirectors,academicdeans/deandesigneesandtheGraduateSchoolto takeadditionalcourseworktomeetminimumUniversityGraduateCouncilgraduation requirements.Requestsforsuchactionsmustbeprocessedviathespecialactionformaccording totheinstructionsarticulatedintheExceptionspolicyintheGraduateBulletin (http://bulletin.vcu.edu/graduate/study/general-academic-regulations-graduate-students/exception s/).Studentswillhaveamaximumofonecalendar yeartocompletesuchadditional requirements.Attheendofthattime,ifstudentsarestilloutofcompliance,theymustbe terminatedfromtheprogramforlackofacademicprogress.
InadditiontoGraduateSchoolrequirements,studentsintheCounselorEducationProgrammust earnagradeofAorBincoursesinvolvingdemonstrationofcounselingskills(i.e.,CLED602, CLED603,CLED604,CLED607,CLED608,CLED609,CLED672).
August 2024
StudentsareexpectedtoabidebytheVCUHonorCode,theACA Code of Ethics, and demonstrateprofessionaldispositionsinamannerappropriateforthecounselingfield. Students mustdemonstrateskillsnecessarytoworkeffectivelywithadiverseclientele.
F. DepartmentofCounselorEducationPolicyonElectronicDevicesin CounselingClasses
Technologyassistscounselorsinnumerousways. Developingthetechnologicalcompetence necessarytobeeffectiveintheprofessionwillbeaddressedthroughouttheprogram. However, classroomactivitiesincounseloreducationclassesinvolveinteractionandcommunication. Computersandothertechnologycanpresentabarriertothatcommunication. Accordingly,the useofcellphones(includingtexting)inclassesisprohibited. Useofpersonalcomputersin classesmaybeallowedattheprofessor’sdiscretion.
G. StudentCounselingSupport
Forstudentswhoneedsupportforinterpersonalandmentalhealthchallenges,theVCU UniversityCounselingServicesisavailableinRoom238oftheUniversityStudentCommons, 907FloydAvenue. Studentscanmakeappointmentsbycalling804-828-6200.
H. ImportantDeadlines
ProgramofStudy
ConsultthecoursesequencesinthisdocumenttocreateyourProgramofStudybeforeyoubegin yourprogramornolaterthanthefirstsemester.Meetwithyouradvisorifyouhavequestions.If youdeviatefromthecoursesequencegivenforyourtrack/timeline(i.e.fullorparttime)you willlikelydelayyourgraduation.
Practicum
ApplicationsforSummerandFallPracticumaredueFebruary1.
Internship
ApplicationsforSpringInternshiparedueSeptember1.
ComprehensiveExam
Registertotakethecomprehensiveexamatleastoneweekpriortotheexam. Beforeapplying fortheexam,seeeligibilityrequirementsinthisHandbook.
Graduation
ApplyforGraduationinthesemesterinwhichyouwillgraduate. Thedeadlineforsubmitting theapplicationcanbefoundinthecurrentbulletin. Studentsmustbeenrolledduringthe semesterinwhichtheygraduate. Graduationinformationcanbefoundat http://graduate.vcu.edu/student/graduation.html
August 2024
I.CounselorEducationCanvasSiteandOnlineCalendar
FacultyintheCounselorEducationDepartmentwillsendinformationtostudentsusingthe CounselorEducationCanvasSite.StudentsareresponsibletoaccepttheprogramCanvasThis informationwillbesenttostudents’VCUemailaccounts.
J.LicensureandCertification
SchoolCounselorLicensure
Informationonschoolcounselorlicensurecanbefoundathttp://www.doe.virginia.gov/
LicensureEligibilityConfirmation
EligibilityforlicensureasaProfessionalSchoolCounselorinVirginiarequiresthatcandidates respondtothefollowingquestions:
1. HaveyoueverbeenconvictedofafelonyintheU.S.(orterritories)orfoundguiltyofa criminaloffenseinanothercountry?
2. Haveyoueverbeenfoundguiltyofamisdemeanorinvolvingchildrenordrugs(not alcohol)?
3. Haveyoueverhadateachingcertificationorlicensedenied,revoked,canceledorsuspended?
4. Haveyoueverbeenthesubjectofafoundedcomplaintofchildabuseorneglectbyachild protectionagency?
5. Haveyoueverleftanyeducationorschoolrelatedemployment,voluntarilyorinvoluntarily, whilethesubjectofaninvestigation,injury,orreviewofallegedmisconductorwhenyouhad reasontobelieveaninvestigationofallegedmisconductwasunderwayorimminent?
6. Toyourknowledge,areyoucurrentlythesubjectofanyinvestigation,inquiry,orreviewof allegedmisconductthatcouldwarrantdisciplineorterminationbyaschooldivisionorother education-relatedemployeroranadverseactionagainstateaching,administrator,pupilservices, orothereducation-relatedlicenseorcertificate?
Ifacandidaterespondsaffirmativelytoanyofthesequestions,theyshouldmakeanappointment immediatelywiththeirfacultyadvisor.
Inadditiontomeetingallacademicandperformancerequirements,studentsintheSchool CounselingTrackmustallrequirementsof theVirginiaBoardofEducation,includingproofof ChildAbuseandNeglectRecognitionTraining,DyslexiaTraining,EmergencyFirstAid, CardiopulmonaryResuscitation,andUseofAutomatedDefibrillatorswithHandsOnTraining, andTrainingregardingUseofSeclusionandRestraints.
LicensedProfessionalCounselor
InformationonVirginialicensurerequirementscanbefoundat http://www.dhp.virginia.gov/counseling/.
LicensedMarriageandFamilyTherapist
InformationonVirginialicensurerequirementscanbefoundat https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Forms/counseling/Mft/LMFT_Licensure_process_handbook.pdf
August 2024
QualifiedMentalHealthProvider-Trainee(QMHP-T)
Accordingtotheboard,'QualifiedMentalHealthProfessional-Trainee'meansapersonwhois receivingsupervisedtrainingtoqualifyasaqualifiedmentalhealthprofessionalandisregistered withtheBoard.(PleasenotethatDBHDSandDMASrequirethatQMHP-traineesberegister withtheBoardofCounselinginordertoprovideservicesandfortheagencytobereimbursed forservicesrendered.)"SomeclinicalplacementsitesmayrequirethatyouhaveaQMHP-T certificationinordertoqualifyforapracticumorinternshipposition.Informationfromthe VirginiaBoardofCounselingaboutthestepstogetyourQMHP-Tareavailablehere: https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/counseling/counseling_qmhp.htm Registrationasa QMHP-Traineeis$25.00(effective2/19/2020).Reviewofapplicationstypicallytakes30days.
ADDITIONALUNIVERSITYGUIDELINES
GeneralGraduateStudentInformation
The VCU Graduate School Bulletin providesacademicregulationsforallgraduatestudents. In thisdocument,excerptsfromthe Graduate School Bulletin areitalicized. Youcanviewthe Bulletin initsentiretyontheVCUWebsiteatwww.pubapps.vcu.edu/bulletins/graduate
ItistheresponsibilityofallgraduatestudentstobefamiliarwiththeGraduateBulletinofrecord (thebulletinineffectatthetimeofofficialadmission),aswellastheacademicregulationsin individualschoolanddepartmentpublicationsandonprogramWebsites;however,inallcases, theofficialpoliciesandproceduresoftheUniversityGraduateCouncil,aspublishedonthis GraduateBulletinWebsiteandontheGraduateSchoolWebsite,takeprecedentoverindividual programpoliciesandguidelines.GraduatestudentsmaycontacttheGraduateSchoolatanytime regardingquestionsrelatingtograduatestudyatVCU.
Immunizationrequirements
Forinformationonimmunizationrequirements,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/university/immunizations/
StudentsintheSchoolCounselingTrackwillneedtosubmitproofoftuberculosisscreeningwith PracticumandInternshipapplications.
StudentLoad andEnrollment
Forinformationonstudentload,changeinregistration,orenrollmentpolicies,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/registration-policies/
Attendance
Forinformationonattendanceandenrollmentpolicies,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/university/attendance/
VCUStudentE-mail
StudentsareresponsibleforcheckingtheirVCUe-mailaccountonaregularbasis. For informationonVCUstudente-mail,visit http://www.ts.vcu.edu/askit/policies-and-publications/information-technology-policies-standards -baselines--guidelines/student-e-mail-policy/
Leaveofabsenceandwithdrawalpolicies
Forinformationleaveofabsencepolicies,visit
http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/university/leave-of-absence/ andwithdrawalpolicies,visit
http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/university/withdrawal/
Note:Studentsrequiringaleaveofabsenceshouldseetheiradvisor.
Changeofgraduatedegreeprogram
Forinformationonchangeofgraduatedegreeprogram,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/program-change/
Universityrulesandprocedures
Forinformationonuniversityrulesandprocedures,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/
Timelimitforcompletionofrequirementsandeligibilityofcourses
Forinformationontimelimitforcompletionandeligibilityofcourses,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/time-limit/time-limit.pdf Grades
Forinformationongrades,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/satisfactory-academic-progress/
Attheendofeachsemester,graduatefacultyadvisersandprogramdirectorswillreviewthe academicprogressofallgraduatestudentsintheirprograms.Theacademicstandingofany graduatestudentswhoreceivemultiplegradesof“C”orgradesof“D”or“F”willbereviewed forpossibleterminationfromtheirprograms.
Appealprocessforstudentdismissedfromgraduateprogram
Forinformationonappealsprocess,visithttp://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/dismissal/
VCUGraduateSchoolAppealprocessishere http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/dismissal/
Astudentmayappealdismissalfromagraduateprogramunderthefollowingprocedures.
A. Thestudenthastheburdenofproofinallappeals.
B. CounselorEducationfacultyareon9-monthcontractsandappealswilloccurduring officialcontractdatesemployedbyVCU.
C. Thestudentmustinitiatetheappealprocessattheprogramlevelwithin10business daysafterreceiptofthegraduatedean’sdismissalletter.Thestudentshouldsendan emailtotheDepartmentChairandProgramCoordinatornotingtheyareappealingthe decision.Thelettershouldhavethefollowingcomponents.
1. Acknowledgingthisemailisaformalappeal.
2. Acknowledgingthatyouareawareofotherpotentialoptionsincludinga medicalhardshipwithdrawalandgradeappealsforindividualclasses.
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3. ProvidearationaleofwhythestudentwasunclearoftheCounselorEducation PoliciesandProcedures.Thisincludesanexplanationofagreeingtothe HandbookAcknowledgementFormthestudentsignedwhenstartingthe program.
4. Provideinformationontheinitiativetakentoinformfacultyofclassesandyour facultyadvisorofthechallengesbeingfaced.
5. Provideinformationregardingthedifferencesingradesobtainedforclasses duringyourprogram.Forexample,ifyouearnedagradeofCorlowerinone classandearnedagradeofAinanotherclassthatsamesemester,whatisthe rationaleforthediscrepancy?
6. Asfutureprofessionalcounselors,thefacultyexpectstudentstobeconcerned aboutotherpeople,tobestableandpsychologicallywelladjusted(personally andprofessionally)withoutimpairment,tobecapableofeffectiveinterpersonal relationships,tobeabletoreceivefeedbackwillingly,andtogivefeedback constructively.FortheVCUcounseloreducationprogram,impairmentis indicatedwhen“studentsshowaninabilitytoinsightfullyunderstandand resolvetheirownissuessothattheseissuesdonotinterferewiththetherapeutic process”(Bemak,Epp,&Keys,1999,p.21).Further,studentsareexpectedto behavegenerallyinamannerthatdemonstratesfitnessforaroleinthe counselingprofession.Finally,weexpectstudentstobecommittedtocontinued personalgrowthandprofessionaldevelopmentandtodemonstratethat commitmentthroughself-reflectionandresponsivenesstosupervisioninall activitiesrelatedtotheirdegreeprogram.Providearationaleonifyoubelieve youhaveexperiencedimpairmentduringyourprogram,whatyouhavedoneto addressthis,andadetailedplanandtimelineonensuringyouwillbesuccessful iftheappealisgranted.
7. TheCounselorEducationProgramalsohastenProfessionalPerformance Standardsthatstudentsareexpectedtomaintainduringtheirtimeinthe program.YoucanreviewthesealongwithratingcriteriaintheM.Edin CounselorEducationHandbook.Reviewthesecriteriaandprovidearationale foryourratingofeachstandard.Inareaswhereyouarenotattaineda3or higher,providearationaleforwhyyouwillbemeetingthiscriteriaifthe appealisgranted.
8. Pleasefeelfreetoprovideanyadditionalinformationyoubelieveispertinentto yourappeal.Pleasenotethatthisinformationshouldalsobeformally documentedwherepossible.
D. Uponreceiptoftheappealfromthestudent,theProgramCoordinatorwillforwardthe appealinformationtothecorecounseloreducationfacultywithin2businessdaysfor review.Corefacultywillhave5businessdaysuponreceiptoftheinformationto review
E. TheProgramCoordinatorwillscheduleaclosedsessionmeetingofthecorecounselor educationfacultywithin5businessdaysafterthecorecounseloreducationfaculty reviewperiodiscompleted.Duringthistime,corefacultyandanyotheradjunct facultythathavehadthestudentareabletoprovideanyadditionalinformation.
F TheclosedsessionreviewoftheCoreCounselorEducationfacultywillbeconducted. Duringthistime,facultywillhaveaccesstothematerialsprovidedbythestudent.
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Facultythathavedocumentationregardingthestudentwillalsobepresentedduring thistime.Attheendofthereviewanddiscussion,thefacultywilldecidebymajority votewheretoupholdthedismissalofthestudentfromtheprogram.
G. TheProgramCoordinatorcommunicatesthefinaldecisionandnotifiestheDepartment Chair,SOEAssociateDeanofAcademicAffairs,andtheStudentinwritingwithin10 businessdaystothestudent’sofficialVCUemailaddress.
Graduationrequirements
Forinformationongraduationrequirements,visit http://bulletin.vcu.edu/academic-regs/grad/graduation-info/
STUDENTORGANIZATIONS
TheCounselorEducationDepartmentoffersthreestudentorganizationsforgraduatestudents. AllstudentsintheCounselorEducationProgramareencouragedjoinandactivelyparticipatein theseorganizations:
1. OmegaLambdaIotaChapterofChiSigmaIota.ChiSigmaIota(CSI),theinternational honorsocietyforcounselingstudents,professionalcounselors,andcounseloreducators,is oneofthelargestcounselingorganizationsintheworld.Itsmissionistorecognizeand promoteexcellenceintheprofessionofcounseling. Thisisanacademichonorarysociety specificallyintheareaofgraduateprogramsinCounselorEducation.ChiSigmaIotaoffers workshopsandprofessionaldevelopmentactivitiesforthecounselingcommunityand undertakesphilanthropicprojectsandoffersopportunitiestoservetheRichmondcommunity. Studentmembershiprequirements:GPA:3.5orbetter;Completedatleast9graduatecredit hoursincounselingprogram;StudentmustbeingoodstandingwiththeCounselor EducationDepartment;StudentmustbeworkingtowardaMaster’sdegreeorPh.D.in CounselorEducationandSupervision. Dr.NaomiWheelerandDr.DonnaGibsonarethe FacultyCo-Advisors.
2. CounselorEducationStudentNetworkingAssociation(CESNA). CESNAisthe Department’sstudentorganization.Therelationshipsstudentsdevelopingraduateschool provideanetworkofcolleagueswithwhomstudentsmayshareideasandresources throughouttheircounselingcareers.Thus,thegoaloftheorganizationistodevelop collegialityandaspiritofprofessionalismamongcounseloreducationstudents.CESNAis ledbyasmallgroupofstudentsunderthesupervisionofafacultyadvisor.Theofficersand advisorplanactivitiesforthestudentsintheprogramtoattend.Examplesoftheseactivities include,butarenotlimitedto,fall/springsocialevents,theannualalumnidinner,graduation celebrations,andguestpresentations.Theseopportunitiesprovidestudentswithadditional knowledgeaboutspecificareasinthecounselingfield,aswellastheopportunitytonetwork withotherstudentsandrespectedguests.Studentsautomaticallybecomemembersof CESNAwhentheyentertheCounselorEducationProgramandnomembershipfeesare required. Dr.DonnaDockeryistheFacultyAdvisor
3. StudentAffairsNetworkingAssociation(SANA). SANAistheDepartment’sstudent organizationthatfocusesonissuesrelevanttothosewhoareinterestedinstudentaffairsand highereducation. Regularmeetingsareheldthroughouttheacademicyear.
4.
PROFESSIONALCOUNSELINGORGANIZATIONS
AllstudentsareurgedtojointheAmericanCounselingAssociation(ACA)inordertobebound bytheassociation'sEthicalstandardsandinordertoobtaingroupmalpracticeinsurance. These applicationsareavailableontheirwebsite(seebelow).Counselorsandstudentdevelopment professionalsshouldbelongtoprofessionalassociationsaftertheyearntheirdegreesiftheyare tostaycurrentinthefieldandkeepabreastofnewtrendsandissues.Activeparticipationin professionalassociationsisvitaltoprofessionalsuccess.Ataminimum,eachgraduatestudentis expectedtojoinappropriateassociations.Membershipduesareusuallylessforstudentsand membersreceiveprofessionalnewsletters,journalsandannouncementsofprofessionalactivities.
▪ AmericanAssociationofMarriageandFamilyTherapy,https://www.aamft.org/
▪ AmericanCounselingAssociation,http://www.counseling.org/
▪ AmericanSchoolCounselorAssociation,http://www.schoolcounselor.org/
▪ AssociationforSpecialistsinGroupWork,http://www.asgw.org
▪ NationalCareerDevelopmentAssociation, http://www.ncda.org/
▪ AmericanCollegePersonnelAssociation,http://www.myacpa.org/
▪ AmericanCollegeCounselingAssociation, http://www.collegecounseling.org/
▪ NationalAssociationofStudentPersonnelAdministrators, http://www.naspa.org/
▪ AmericanAssociationofStudentPersonnelAdministrators, http://www.aaspa.org/
▪ AmericanCollegeStudentEducatorsInternational, https://myacpa.org/
▪ SouthernAssociationforCollegeStudentAffairs,http://www.sacsa.org
▪ VirginiaAssociationofMarriageandFamilyTherapy,https://vamft.wordpress.com/about-vamft/
▪ VirginiaCounselorsAssociation,http://www.vcacounselors.org/
▪ VirginiaSchoolCounselorAssociation,http://www.vsca.org/
▪ VirginiaAssociationofSpecialistsinGroupWork,http://www.vasgw.org/
▪ VirginiaCareerDevelopmentAssociation,http://www.vcdaweb.org
FINANCIALAID,SCHOLARSHIPS,ANDGRADUATEASSISTANTSHIPS
PleasecontacttheVCUFinancialAidofficeforinformationspecificallyregardingfinancialaid applicationsandprocedures(http://graduate.admissions.vcu.edu/apply/finaid/).
Inanefforttorecognizeacademicachievement,service,andtalent,scholarshipsare awardedeachyeartomanydeservingstudents.Families,clubs,corporations,foundations, alumni,andotherorganizationsfundthesescholarshipsandawards.StudentsintheCounselor EducationProgramhavetheopportunitytoapplyandpossiblyreceivescholarshipsofferedfor thosestudentsintheSchoolofEducation,andmorespecificallyforstudentsstrivingtobeschool counselors.TheSchoolofEducationhasseveraldifferenttypesofscholarshipsavailablewith informationavailableat
https://soe.vcu.edu/development-alumni-and-student-engagement/development/scholarships-andendowments/scholarships/.
TherearelimitedgraduateassistantshipsavailablethroughtheSchoolofEducation. Applicants shouldmaketheirinterestintheseknownintheirapplicationandtotheprogramcoordinator.
Criteria for Professional Performance Evaluation
- Was dogmatic about own perspective and ideas
- Ignored or was defensive about constructive feedback
- Showed little or no evidence of incorporating constructive feedback received to change own behavior.
- Was amenable to discussion of perspectives other than own
- Accepts constructive feedback without defensiveness.
- Some evidence of effort to incorporate relevant feedback received to change own behavior
2. Flexibility (rated from Inflexible [1] to Flexible [5])
- Showed little or no effort to recognize changing demands in the professional & interpersonal environment
- Showed little or no effort to flex own response to changing environmental demands.
- Refused to flex own response to changing environmental demands despite knowledge of the need for change
- Was intolerant of unforeseeable or necessary changes in established schedule or protocol.
- Effort to recognize changing demands in the professional & interpersonal environment was evident but sometimes inaccurate.
- Effort to flex own response to new environmental demands was evident but sometimes inaccurate
- Flexed own response to changing environmental demands when directed to do so.
- Accepted necessary changes in established schedule or protocol, but without effort to understand the reason for them
- Solicited others' opinions and perspectives about own work
- Invited constructive feedback, and demonstrated interest in others' perspectives.
- Showed strong evidence of incorporation of feedback received to change own behavior
- Showed accurate effort to recognize changing demands in the professional & interpersonal environment
- Showed accurate effort to flex own response to changing environmental demands as needed
- Independently monitored the environment for changing demands and flexed own response accordingly.
- Attempts to understand needs for change in established schedule or protocol to avoid resentment
- Accepted necessary changes in established schedule and attempted to discover the reasons for them
3. Cooperativeness with others (rated from Uncooperative [1] to Cooperative [5])
1. Openness to new ideas (rated from Closed [1] to Open [5])
Showed little or no engagement in collaborative activities
Undermined goal achievement in collaborative activities. Was unwilling to compromise in collaborative activities
Engaged in collaborative activities but with minimum allowable input
Accepted but rarely initiated compromise in collaborative activities
Was concerned mainly with own part in collaborative activities
Worked actively toward reaching consensus in collaborative activities Was willing to initiate compromise in order to reach group consensus
Showed concern for group as well as individual goals in collaborative activities
4. Willingness to accept and use feedback (rated from Unwilling [1] to Willing [5])
1 2 3 4 5
Discouraged feedback from others through defensiveness and anger
Showed little or no evidence of incorporation of feedback of supervisory feedback received. Took feedback contrary to own position as a personal affront Demonstrated greater willingness to give feedback than receive it.
Was generally receptive to supervisory feedback
Showed some evidence of incorporating supervisory feedback into own views and behaviors.
Showed some defensiveness to critique through "over-explanation of own actions--but without anger
Demonstrated greater willingness to receive feedback than to give it.
Invited feedback by direct request and positive acknowledgement when received
Showed evidence of active incorporation of supervisory feedback received into own views and behaviors
Demonstrated a balanced willingness to give and receive supervisory feedback.
5. Awareness of own impact on others (rated from Unaware [1] to Aware [5]) 1 2 3 4 5
Words and actions reflected little or no concern for how others were impacted by them. Ignored supervisory feedback about how words and actions were negatively impacting others
6. Ability
to
Effort to determine how own words and actions impacted others was evident but sometimes inaccurate. Respond as necessary to feedback regarding negative impact of own words and actions on others, but at times, with resentment.
Effort toward recognition of how own words and actions impacted others. Initiates feedback from others regarding impact of own words and behaviors
Regularly incorporates feedback regarding impact of own words and behaviors to effect positive change.
deal with conflict (rated from Unable [1] to Able [5]) 1 2 3 4
- Was unable or unwilling to consider others' points of view
- Showed no willingness to examine own role in a conflict.
- Ignored supervisory advisement if not in agreement with own position.
- Showed no effort at problem solving
- Attempted but sometimes had difficulty grasping conflicting points of view.
- Would examine own role in a conflict when directed to do so
- Was responsive to supervision in a conflict if it was offered
- Participated in problem solving when directed.
- Always willing and able to consider others' points of view
- Almost always willing to examine own role in a conflict.
- Was consistently open to supervisory critique about own role in a conflict.
- Initiated problem solving efforts in conflicts
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- Displayed hostility when conflicts were addressed
- Actively participated in problem solving efforts
7. Ability to accept personal responsibility (rated from Unable [1] to Able [5]) 1 2 3 4 5
- Refused to admit mistakes or examine own contribution to problems.
- Lied, minimized or embellished the truth to extricate self from problems
- Consistently blamed others for problems without self-examination.
- Was willing to examine own role in problems when informed of the need to do so.
- Was accurate and honest in describing own and others roles in problems
- Might blame initially, but was open to self-examination about own role in problems
- Monitored own level of responsibility in professional performance.
- Invited constructive critique from others and applied it toward professional growth
- Accepted own mistakes and responded to them as opportunity for self-improvement
- Avoided blame in favor of self-examination.
8. Ability to express feelings effectively and appropriately (rated from Unable [1] to Able [5]) 1 2 3 4 5
Showed no evidence of willingness and ability to articulate own feelings
Showed no evidence of willingness and ability to recognize and acknowledge the feelings of others
Acted out negative feelings (through negative behaviors) rather than articulating them
Expressions of feeling were inappropriate to the setting
Was resistant to discussion of feelings in supervision
Showed some evidence of willingness and ability to articulate own feelings, but with limited range
Showed some evidence of willingness and ability to acknowledge others' feelings--sometimes inaccurate
Expressions of feeling usually appropriate to the setting--responsive to supervision when not.
Willing to discuss own feelings in supervision when directed
Was consistently willing and able to articulate the full range of own feelings
Showed evidence of willingness and accurate ability to acknowledge others' feelings
Expression of own feelings was consistently appropriate to the setting
Initiated discussion of own feeling in supervision
9. Attention to ethical and legal considerations (rated from Inattentive [1] to Attentive [5]) 1 2 3 4 5
- Engaged in dual relationships with clients.
- Was responsive to supervision for occasional personal-professional boundary
- Maintained clear personal-professional boundaries with clients.
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- Acted with prejudice toward those of different race, culture, gender, or sexual orientation than self
- Endangered the safety and the well being of clients.
- Breached established rules for protecting client confidentiality
confusion in verbal interactions with clients
- Was responsive to supervision for occasional insensitivity to diversity in professional interactions.
- Used judgment that could have put client safety and well being at risk
- Used judgment that could have put client confidentiality at risk
- Demonstrated consistent sensitivity to diversity
- Satisfactorily ensured client safety and well-being;
- Appropriately safeguarded the confidentiality of clients
10. Initiative and motivation (rated from Poor Initiative and Motivation [1] to Good Initiative and Motivation [5])
1 2 3 4 5
- Often missed deadlines and classes.
- Rarely participated in class activities
- Often failed to meet minimal expectations in assignments
- Displayed little or no initiative and creativity in assignments
- Missed the maximum allowable classes and deadlines
- Usually participated in class activities
- Met only the minimal expectations in assigned work
- Showed some initiative and creativity in assignments.
- Met all attendance requirements and deadlines.
- Regularly participated in class activities
- Met or exceeded expectations in assigned work
- Consistently displayed initiative and creativity in assigned work
AppendixB
Virginia Commonwealth University Counselor Education Department
NOTIFICATION OF PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE CONCERN
To (notified student):
From (issuing faculty):
I. ThisistonotifyyouthatyourprofessionalperformanceasdefinedintheProfessional PerformanceReviewProcesssectionoftheStudentHandbookisratedbelowthreeinthe followingarea(s):
II. Descriptionofobservedconcern(s)(describesspecificconcern(s)observedineach performancearea):
III. PerformanceChangesRequired(describesspecificperformancechangesneededineach areacitedasdeficitinSectionIIabove):
IV. RemedialPlan(describesallnecessarystepstobetakentoassistthestudentinmakingthe requiredchangesspecifiedinsectionIIIabove,includingaschedulefortheirformativeand summativeevaluation)
V Signatures(indicatethatthestudentandissuingfacultyhavemettodiscussthisnotification andthatthestudenthasreceivedacompletedcopy)
Date:
Student:
Issuing Faculty:
Academic Advisor:
AppendixC
DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELOR EDUCATION
PROGRAM OF STUDY AGREEMENT
School Counseling Track
Name: Student ID#:
Address: Telephone: Home ( ) Cell ( )
E-Mail Address:
Note: All CLED courses must be completed prior to enrolling in CLED 672: Internship Any exception to this policy must be approved in writing on this planning sheet *Required as prerequisites or co-requisite to all other CLED courses Procedures: File this program plan with your advisor See Student Handbook on Counselor Education Website: http://www soe vcu edu/departments/ce/index html Skills and dispositions will be formally assessed in CLED 602, CLED 604, and CLED 672 Deadlines for practicum application: Fall, February 1; Spring, September 1 Deadlines for internship applications: Fall, February 1; Spring, September 1. Register to take comprehensive examination 6 weeks prior to the exam: 1st Sat in October and March; 2nd Sat in July Apply for graduation by deadline in current bulletin
Student’s Signature: Date:
Advisor’s Signature:
Date:
AppendixD
DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELOR EDUCATION
Name:
Address: Telephone: Home ( ) Cell ( )
E-Mail Address:
Note: All CLED courses must be completed prior to enrolling in CLED 672: Internship Any exception to this policy must be approved in writing on this planning sheet *Required as prerequisites or co-requisite to all other CLED courses Procedures: File this program plan with your advisor See Student Handbook on Counselor Education Website: http://www soe vcu edu/departments/ce/index html Skills and dispositions will be formally assessed in CLED 602, CLED 604, and CLED 672 Deadlines for practicum application: Fall, February 1; Spring, September 1 Deadlines for internship applications: Fall, February 1; Spring, September 1. Register to take comprehensive examination 6 weeks prior to the exam: 1st Sat in October and March; 2nd Sat in July Apply for graduation by deadline in current bulletin
Student’s Signature: Date:
Advisor’s Signature: Date:
AppendixE
DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELOR EDUCATION
GRADUATE PROGRAM OF STUDY AGREEMENT
Couple and Family Counseling Track
Name: Student ID#:
Address:
Telephone: Home ( ) Cell ( )
E-Mail Address: Admitted
Note: All CLED courses must be completed prior to enrolling in CLED 672: Internship Any exception to this policy must be approved in writing on this planning sheet. *Required as prerequisites or co-requisite to all other CLED courses. Procedures: File this program plan with your advisor See Student Handbook on Counselor Education Website: http://www soe vcu edu/departments/ce/index html Skills and dispositions will be formally assessed in CLED 602, CLED 604, and CLED 672 Deadlines for practicum application: Fall, February 1; Spring, September 1 Deadlines for internship applications: Fall, February 1; Spring, September 1 Register to take comprehensive examination 6 weeks prior to the exam: 1st Sat in October and March; 2nd Sat in July Apply for graduation by deadline in current bulletin
Student’s Signature:
Advisor’s Signature:
Date:
Date:
AppendixF
StudentAcknowledgementofReceiptofHandbook Submitsignedformtoassignedadvisor.
I,___________________________________,havereadandagreetofollowtheprogram (printname) guidelinesandproceduresasdescribedintheCounselorEducationProgramM.Ed.
Handbook.
StudentSignature
CLEDProgramAdvisorSignature
Date
Date