Professional Residency in Counseling
The transition from graduate student to licensed professional is a pivotal stage in your career. Our residency program is designed to foster professional growth and confidence, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of counseling theories while promoting ethical decision-making. We encourage residents to develop unique specialization areas through diverse training opportunities, adhering strictly to both state and national counseling standards.
Structure, Duration, and Licensing Preparation
Our program is meticulously structured to fulfill all requirements for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To ensure you are fully prepared for the next step in your professional career, we provide a clear and supported path through the following:
- Comprehensive Experience: Complete the required 4,000 hours of post-graduate supervised experience over a two-year period, ensuring a solid foundation in clinical practice.
- Direct Client Contact: Dedicate at least 2,000 hours to direct client interaction, featuring a balanced mix of individual and group counseling, as well as clinical assessments.
- NCMHCE Preparation: Receive focused support and resources specifically designed for the National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Examination to help you achieve licensure success.
- Licensure Guidance: Navigate the complexities of the state application process with step-by-step assistance, ensuring all professional activities meet Virginia’s regulatory standards.
Clinical Supervision and Advanced Training
Mentorship is the heart of our residency. You will receive at least 100 hours of supervision, including a minimum of one hour of direct, face-to-face supervision each week. Our experienced Licensed Professional Counselors are committed to reflective practice, helping you refine your techniques and client management skills through detailed case discussions.
Beyond supervision, you will have access to:
- Specialized Workshops: Advanced training in areas such as trauma-informed care and multicultural counseling.
- Peer Consultation: Regular case conferences and collaborative peer groups.
- Research Initiatives: Opportunities to engage in program evaluation and clinical research projects.
The Path to Licensure This structure is designed to take the guesswork out of your residency, allowing you to focus on your clinical growth while we help you navigate the administrative milestones.
Admission and Application Requirements
We seek dedicated individuals with a strong academic record and a genuine desire to serve diverse populations. To be eligible for the residency, applicants must have completed a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field from a CACREP-accredited institution, including the successful completion of a supervised internship.
Your application should demonstrate a deep commitment to professional development and the ethical standards of the counseling profession. We prioritize candidates who are eager to contribute to the field while refining their clinical identity within our supportive environment.