Unit rationale, description and aim

The ability to integrate theoretical knowledge into clinical practice is fundamental to the practice of psychology. This is the first in a series of practicum units designed to provide students (as provisional psychologists) with experience in the delivery of a range of psychological services in a real-world setting to complement the theoretical and simulated learning that takes place in the coursework units. The emphasis is on skill development in a supervised, structured environment. Students are encouraged to approach applied problems and skill based learning from a hypothesis based assessment perspective consistent with a scientist-practitioner model. Students will develop their engagement skills with clients and the ability to develop effective working relationships. Students also take part in a weekly group case conference. The ability to apply ethical standards and behave professionally in a real work setting are an integral part of learning in this unit. The aim of this unit is to facilitate the development of initial psychological practice skills that are required to work effectively and safely with clients and ensure that students are progressing at a level that is consistent with professional standards.

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Term Mode
Semester 1Campus Attendance
Semester 2Campus Attendance

Term Mode
Semester 1Campus Attendance
Semester 2Campus Attendance

Prerequisites

PSYC621 Professional Practice in Psychology AND PSYC622 Practicum Skills AND PSYC630 Psychological Assessment AND PSYC638 Therapeutic Skills

Learning outcomes

To successfully complete this unit you will be able to demonstrate you have achieved the learning outcomes (LO) detailed in the below table.

Each outcome is informed by a number of graduate capabilities (GC) to ensure your work in this, and every unit, is part of a larger goal of graduating from ACU with the attributes of insight, empathy, imagination and impact.

Explore the graduate capabilities.

Describe the clinical observation skills, that tog...

Learning Outcome 01

Describe the clinical observation skills, that together with reflective practice facilitated by supervision, enable students to develop effective working relationships with clients characterized by empathy, respect and an awareness of professional behaviour and ethical and legal responsibilities of a provisional psychologist

Relevant Graduate Capabilities: GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC6, GC7, GC8, GC9, GC11, GC12

Explain the link (both verbally and in written for...

Learning Outcome 02

Explain the link (both verbally and in written form) between assessment, diagnosis, formulation, treatment plans, goals and monitoring of client progress in clinical work with clients

Relevant Graduate Capabilities: GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC5, GC6, GC7, GC8, GC9, GC11, GC12

Apply clinical skills (and appropriately document ...

Learning Outcome 03

Apply clinical skills (and appropriately document the application of these in accordance with agency record keeping practices) to conduct psychological assessments and treatments, including maintaining client engagement, monitoring treatment progress and behaving in accordance with placement procedures and ethical and professional standards

Relevant Graduate Capabilities: GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC5, GC6, GC7, GC8, GC9, GC10, GC11, GC12

Implement effective person centred interprofession...

Learning Outcome 04

Implement effective person centred interprofessional practice at an entry to practice level

Relevant Graduate Capabilities: GC1, GC2, GC3, GC4, GC6, GC8, GC11, GC12

Content

This first practicum is usually carried out in the field placement or the ACU Psychology Clinic under the supervision of a registered psychologist approved as a Supervisor (BAS) by the Psychology Board of Australia and holding the relevant area of practice endorsement. While on placement, students will develop the ability to integrate skills and intervention models with specific clinical material. Attendance at weekly case conferences involves small and large group discussion of issues relevant to professional practice such as diagnosis, formulation, choosing appropriate interventions, ethical dilemmas, record keeping and report writing. Students will complete a supervision contract and goals for their placement in collaboration with their supervisor to guide their development of specific assessment and intervention skills.

Assessment strategy and rationale

The assessment strategy of graded hurdles ensures students meet psychological practice standards set by the Psychology Board of Australia and the Australian Psychological Accreditation Council. Supervisors assess trainee competence at mid- and end-placement using structured tools like the Clinical Psychology Practicum Competencies Rating Scale.

The Practicum Log Book assesses record-keeping skills, with submissions due within two weeks of practicum completion.

The Case Conference Presentation develops clinical communication skills, while the Case Conference Report evaluates case formulation and treatment planning. One resubmission is allowed.

The Mid-Practicum Review evaluates students’ real-world performance, identifying strengths and areas for growth. If concerns arise, a remediation plan is developed, including additional reviews. This review may be waived in extenuating circumstances.

At the End-of-Practicum Competency Review, students must demonstrate increased competence. Failure results in failing the unit, with no opportunity to retake it. Unless otherwise agreed in the Placement Contract, this review must be completed within six months, with extensions requiring approval.

The End-Practicum Final Competency Evaluation extends the End-of-Practicum Review, allowing students to provide evidence of readiness for independent practice.

Students must pass all assessments, as failure indicates an unacceptable risk to future clients. Learning outcomes are assessed to ensure competence, confidence, and readiness for independent practice.