BH 284D Practicum: Direct Support Professional

Lecture Hours: 1
Lab Hours: 9
Credits: 4

Provides experience working on-site in a behavioral health agency to integrate field and classroom experiences. Offers Direct Support Specialist students two different practicum sites, each at least two terms in length, during the Associate of Applied Science degree acquisition. The second-year practicum is more comprehensive and provides an opportunity to develop more advanced skills.

Prerequisite: BH 150, BH 170, and BH 203; or consent of instructor. Students must have completed or be concurrently enrolled in BH 216 (or BH 217 once BH 216 is completed) to commence (or continue in) practicum at a second site. All prerequisite courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Awareness of participant needs based on cultural norms, language, values, beliefs, gender, trauma history, and economic status.
Use case management skills and person-centered approaches for participant care coordination.
Participate in consultation and referral services for participants and agency partners.
Conduct and compose screenings and assessments.
Understand participatory planning techniques and able to implement plans.
Understand crisis prevention and intervention practices.
Document client participation and progress using electronic medical records.
Meet agency personnel and professional standards.

Content Outline

Functioning as an Effective Agency Member
Understanding the clients
- Addressing and resolving conflict
- Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
- Intercultural competency
Workplace expectations
Community resources and referrals
Use of Clinical Supervision
- Planning for the supervision session
- Accepting, giving, and learning from feedback
Skill Development
- Evaluation
- Service and treatment modalities
- Assessing behavior
- Documentation
- Coaching
- Advocacy
- Leadership
Evidence-Based Practices
Career Planning