Opportunities for graduate student practicums/internships

How to apply

Counseling and Psychological Services is committed to contributing to the advancement of the mental health field through the training of new professionals. Our goal is to assist trainees grow both personally and professionally.

CaPS typically offers two (2) Masters practicum/internship positions each Fall and Spring semester. Interns/practicum students are required to attend CaPS' weekly staffings/meetings on Tuesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and monthly staffings with Student Health Services. In addition, they are expected to participate in an extensive orientation during their first week at CaPS. The orientation includes information about services and activities provided through CaPS and tours of affiliated departments.

The following must be included in your application packet:

1. Counseling and Psychological Services Application
2. Cover letter
3. Resume or curriculum vita
4. Unofficial transcript

UTPA has an enrollment of over 17,000 students, about 2100 of whom are graduate students. About 59% of enrolled students are female and 41% are male. The average age of undergraduate students are 23 years of age, while graduate students average at 33 years old. The university has the most Hispanic faculty among the state institutions and educates the most Mexican-American students in the nation. About 86% of our population is Hispanic. The vast majority of our students come from Texas; however, the student population also represents about 27 other states. In addition, the student population includes approximately 800 students from about 46 countries. The majority of our students are receiving financial aid.

Interns/practicum students volunteering at CaPS often work with a range of client issues and diagnoses. Clients of CaPS also present a range of ages, religions, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status. The role and philosophy of CaPS is comparable to that of a community mental health center. Psychotherapy services are available to currently enrolled students. Faculty and staff are referred to the Employee Assistance Program through Human Resources. Referrals to community agencies may also be provided to those who do not qualify for CaPS services. Services offered also include crisis intervention, outreach services, and psychoeducational programs.

Counseling and Psychological Services staff work collaboratively with Student Health Services (SHS), Office of Services for Persons with Disabilities (OSPD), Substance Abuse Services, Office of the Dean of Students (DOS), University Police Department, Residence Life, Advisement Center, and Office of International Admissions and Services. As well, staff therapists often consult with faculty members on addressing student concerns.