Serving with Purpose: How I Chose My Practicum Sites

I am incredibly excited to share that I have secured my practicum sites for the upcoming year. Yes, sites. In the plural. This marks an important step in my journey as a counselor-in-training and reflects my commitment to serving with purpose.

How It Started

I began researching sites last December by thinking through what kind of placement would be the right fit for me. The most important factor I considered was alignment, particularly with the services provided and the populations served. I want my practicum experience to reflect purposeful service, not just the completion of hours for graduation.

I also took into account practicalities, including:

• A site relatively close to home to avoid wasting time in traffic
• A low trainee-to-supervisor ratio to ensure quality supervision
• Flexible hours that fit with my full-time job
• Support with administrative tasks like paperwork and insurance billing, which are new to me.

With these priorities in mind, I reviewed the list of approved agencies, explored their websites, and reached out to current interns to get their honest feedback.

As I narrowed down my choices, I focused on three main sites. However, I had to wait until early spring to apply, as those agencies only opened applications for fall cohorts during that time. The wait wasn’t easy.

In the end, I found a site that met all of my criteria and offered even more than I hoped for.

What Stood Out to Me

What first caught my attention was how clearly the site presented information online, with a dedicated page for internship information. Their application process was transparent, and I was able to speak with a Palo Alto University graduate who had completed their internship there. They spoke highly of the experience, and their enthusiasm encouraged me to take a closer look.

During the interview, I was pleasantly surprised by how warm and human the interaction felt. The program is known for thoughtful training and a supportive learning environment. It is the kind of place where I can continue developing my identity as a counselor while being both challenged and encouraged.

Why I Also Chose a Supplemental Site

I also decided to take on a supplemental placement where I will work with Spanish-speaking clients. This decision comes from my heart and speaks to the core of who I am and what I stand for. Although I will only be seeing a small number of clients in this setting, I feel called to support immigrants, international students, and workers, especially now, in a climate of growing hostility and instability. I feel a personal responsibility to show for them.

The supplemental site will help me grow my clinical skills in Spanish while serving a population I deeply care about.

My Decision

Securing my placements took time, intention, and patience. It involved interviews, managing my emotions around uncertainty, and carefully considering what would best support my development. In the end, I chose sites that reflect my values and will challenge me to grow while offering the support I need.

I am grateful to everyone who helped along the way. I am stepping into this next chapter with excitement and purpose. I can’t wait to keep learning through service.

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I will see you next week.