Mental Health Counselor Practice Plan

Practice Plan
Terrika Parker
Intro Clinical Mental Health Counseling
COUN 5223
11/5/17
Capella University

The purpose of the paper is to create a practice plan that will allow me to prepare myself as I take place as a clinical mental health counselor who serves children and adolescents throughout my community. I will begin by explaining the historical background which will lead to the network of mental health services available for my selected population. Throughout this paper, I will also discuss a plan for receiving post-master’s clinical supervision that meets ethical requirements of the American Counseling Association (ACA). Lastly, I will identify any professional organizations that will help support my practice as a professional

For licensed professional counselors (LPC), it is required to have a master’s degree along with a completion of supervised 500-hour practicum or internship (in which 300 hours must be completed in a clinical setting). For licensed professional counselors – mental health providers (LPC/MHPS), there is a requirement of completion of 9 graduate semester hours of coursework related to diagnosis, treatment, assessment of mental disorders. Also, they are required to complete 2 years of post-masters’ professional experience consisting of 3,000 hours of direct clinical. (www.counseling.org) Following graduation, I understand that will need years of experience working under supervision along with completing the National Counselor Examination and The National Clinical Mental Health Examination. Case consultation can be very beneficial. It allows you to consult with other licensed counselors within the same field. For ethnical purposes, it is essential to follow up with the required necessities such as licenses renewal every 2 years. It also important to counselors only claims licenses or certification that are existing and in good standing. (C.4.b. Credentials) The ACA code of ethics provides professional standards for counselors with the hopes of protecting the dignity and

Failure to give notice in a timely manner will result in a charge for the time reserved for you. Please note that fees for each session must be collected at the end of the session and before making additional appointments.
Confidentiality:
Information you and your family share with me will be regarded with respect and handled in a professional manner. Before the initial session, you will be given a release of information form which needs to be signed before communicating with others. You will also be asked to sign a client consent for use and disclosure of protected health information.
Emergency protocol:
In the event of an emergency or a mental health crisis, do not hesitate to call 911. Feel free to leave a voicemail if I am out the office. I will certainly get back with you as soon as possible.

Acceptance of Term:
We agree to these terms and will abide by these guidelines.
Client: ___________________________________________________ Date: ___________ Parent/Guardian (if applicable): ________________________________ Date: ___________ Parent/Guardian (if applicable): ________________________________ Date: