Clinical Practicum: Children

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

170 hours

Currently working in field.

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Objectives, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

This clinical practicum is designed to provide closely supported training in clinical work and promote the participants’ practical application of the theoretical material covered in PSYT90031. The clinical practicum is conducted in small groups (approximately 3 to 5 participants per group), under the guidance of experienced supervisors.

This subject will cover:

• the structure and safety of the therapeutic environment and setting limits;
• the nature and purpose of commonly used play equipment which may be utilised with children;
• various forms of engagement and the development of a therapeutic relationship;
• maintaining the privacy of the therapeutic relationship and managing crises; and
• specific strategies and techniques which may be used in clinical work with children and issues in continuity of care.

It will require the maintenance of a log in which therapy contacts will be recorded.

Participants will hone specific therapeutic skills required for effective individual work with children, accounting for:

• Issues relating to the environment in which therapy can effectively take place
• The goals of therapy
• Identification of therapeutic interventions, which may be more suitable for a specific child in their specific environment
• Ethical issues and continuity of care issues

• A case assignment of between 3,000-3,500 words due end of semester (worth 70%)
• A clinical log of between 1,500-2,000 words due end of semester (worth 30%)
• Minimum 80% attendance at practicums (hurdle requirement)

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject, participants should be able to:

• Evaluate effectiveness of their interventions
• Utilise problem solving skills to determine how to modify a treatment plan
• Identify avenues for ongoing consultation and supervision around treatment

It is required that students have a Working With Children Check before commencing this subject.