Practicum 1

This unit will introduce students to a range of professional activities undertaken by registered psychologists. Students enrolled in postgraduate psychology courses will complete a placement at the Victoria University Psychology Clinic, undertaking activities including individual and group therapy, cognitive and behavioural assessments, and participation in the activities of a psychology practice. Students will receive close supervision by registered psychologist supervisors, learn about ethical, legal and organisational practice issues, and experience interprofessional practice through engaging in professional contact with a range of health professionals. Placement in HPP7001 Practicum 1 is 180 hours, and together with HPP7002 Practicum 2 of 150 hours, an overall minimum total of 330 placement hours is required to meet Australian Psychology Accreditation Council requirements for this internal placement. The additional hours in HPP7001 Practicum 1 compared to HPP7002 are provided to support students in their transition towards becoming psychologists.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

1. Exemplify the stage-appropriate assessment and intervention skills expected of provisional psychologists in line with Australian Psychology Accreditation Council competencies;
2. Implement professional record maintenance skills in relation to practice documentation, supervision logbooks, progress notes and clinic files in a professional agency;
3. Exhibit familiarity with the organisational context and interprofessional network including other health professionals in which the psychology practice is embedded; and
4. Exhibit a developing ability to carry out the activities of a provisional psychologist in a professional manner, with due appreciation of the legal and ethical issues involved.