Strategic Career Plan Portfolio

Ryan McClain
Career Development
Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
11/24/20

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Value Scan.
1. My name is Ryan McClain. I am a Junior at Mansfield University. I am studying
Psychology as my undergraduate degree, and am minoring in Music. I am from
Middleburg Heights, Ohio, where I grew up and attended school through 12 th grade. I am
a 21-year-old man of Turkish, Scottish and Irish decent. I am the youngest son of my
family. My brother Alex is the oldest.
My mother and father have been married for 40 years. My mother has her Ph.D. in Special
Education, and my father is a retired officer of the United States Coast Guard, serving more than
32 years active duty. My father is now a top federal agent for the Department of Homeland
Security. We are Catholic in faith, and are active members of our Parish of St. Bartholomew
Catholic Church, in Middleburg Heights. We enjoy the life of and upper middle-class family.
We are a conservative Republican family

Family is very important to our life. I have always and always will put family and faith first.
I am very proud of my heritage, and of the legacy of my grandparents and great grandparents.
My great grandparents on my mother and father’s side immigrated here though Ellis Island from
Scotland and Ireland. My grandfather on my mother’s immigrated here from Cyprus, through
Ellis Island. I treasure the knowledge of what I was told about my ancestral heritage, and will
one day pass it on to my own children.

I was active in my youth with our Parish Choir and musicals. I attended PSR classes and
proudly made my First Holy Communion and Confirmation in our Parish. I am now to this day a
member of our Adult Choir; when I am at home. I was active in the community through Boy
Scouts through the 10th grade, which taught me much about life and skills I would need and use
throughout my life. I was also a member of my school choirs, and musicals, and have performed
in the musicals, Anything Goes, Beauty and The Beast, and West Side Story. I was a part of our
high school Debate team for a year and part of our high school Drama Society for 3 years.

The guidance and teachings of my youth and the of my parents and Parish community have
shaped me into who I am today.
Unfortunately, because of my Asperger’s, I was also heavily bullied and picked on throughout
my school years from 6th grade on that had a negative impact on my life. It caused me to have
Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, and eventually be diagnosed with BPD. I have had a few hospitals
stays because of these issues, and many, many psychology and psychiatric appointments with
mental health psychologists/psychiatrists over the years, and have had a gamut of medications
prescribed to help me combat the mental health issues I contend with. It was with me in hospital
stay at a mental health facility last year, that I decided I wanted to change my major form Music
Performance to Psychology. I want to be the change agent that can help others who have gone
through and are going through what I have gone through. I believe I can be of great service to
others, because I have “real life experience” of what the individual is feeling and experiencing.
I will be able to relate. I will be able to make the person feel comfortable talking with me.

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2. Values and beliefs, I embrace are as follows:
a. Faith: I believe faith is the foundation and building blocks that give us what we need
to be well rounded people.
b. Family and Pets: Family is your life blood, and the ones you can always count on to
have your back no matter what; and Pets are important to one’s sense of self. Pets
know when you are up or down, and when you need extra unconditional love and
support.
c. Education: Without an education, one has limited availability in life to grow and
have more opportunities to become successful than if you don’t have an education.
d. Friendships: Friendships are important to one’s self esteem and one’s mental health.
No one truly want to be alone. Friendships help with getting through the day to day
life crap.
e. Truth and Honesty: I do not like people who lie and deceive. I was taught it is
always better to tell the truth because in the long run you will be more respected, and
trustworthy. Without these two things, much in life falls apart.
f. Work Ethic: I was taught a strong work ethic, is important to becoming a successful
person in life. Valuing how well you do a job no matter what that job may be, from
chores, to education, to employment gives a person the feeling of pride and
accomplishment no matter how great or small it is. It gives you the drive and desire
to move forward as a person.
g. Life liberty and the pursuit of happiness: Living the American dream our
forefathers wanted for us is highly important to one’s success in life. We were given
the tools to form ourselves and our country. It is so important we grasp these values
and make the best of the opportunities in front of us. It is how we will survive.
h. Love: I value love. I was abused and used in a relationship with my ex-girlfriend, and
it caused me a great amount of emotional pain. I want to be loved, and loved the way
one should be.
i. Music: I value music. Music calms the human soul. Music releases endorphins.
Music and my singing have always been a great strength of mine, and it has always
helped me in times of feeling depressed to regroup and pull through.

3. What I am passionate about:

a. Politics: I am very passionate about Politics. I ran for state representative in my
District and received 30% of the vote with my platform. I am tired of this nation
being so divided, cruel, heartless, and violent.
b. Music: I am passionate about music as I stated above and why, Music calms the
human soul.
c. Education: We live in a country where education is valued and in great need in order
to bring about change and is necessary to become the person whom you are meant to
be. I advocate all should stive to become as educated as they can be. Knowledge is
power.
d. Community: Community involvement is so important to the survival of our great
cities, and community give people a sense of peace knowing others out there are
actively striving to make their community safe and secure.

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 e. Ending bullying: Being a victim of horrific bullying in my school years, I am very
passionate about ending bullying in the schools. Schools and school districts must be
held accountable for the bullying that is happening. Too many suicides of young
people are happening. Too many valuable lives are being lost over something that
needs to be forefront in every school and every district nationwide. Bullying is
unacceptable in any form. More needs to be done to eradicate this disgusting facet of
life.

Everything I have mentioned above is why I wish to pursue a degree in Psychology. Every
aspect of faith, family, pets, friendship, education, work ethic, truth and honesty, life liberty and
the pursuit of happiness, love, music, education, community involvement; all play a significant
role in a person’s ability to function in a society and a world that requires so much of our mental
capacity. When one’s wheel is out of balance, one’s life is thrown into a chaotic realm of
negative self; and one’s ability to function as a whole. Me as a person; and how I was brought
up, in the family unit, how I was shown that every aspect of my life is a stepping stone, and is
important to my ultimate success as the person I want to become the best person I can be. With
what I have stated about each of the things above, they have all impacted my life in one way or
another. The negative impact of bullying, being in an abusive relationship, that didn’t have truth
and honesty in it greatly impacted how I viewed myself and how I was able to function in life.
However, the negative impact of some of these things has also led to my desire to pursue
Psychology as a career path. My mother has always told me, “turn that negative into a positive,
and you will be able to see things more clearly.”

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The Mansfield Creed:
Character, Scholarship, Culture and Service
We accomplish this by focusing on the four core values that have been our tradition since 1912:
Character, Scholarship, Culture, and Service.

“We believe in celebrating humanity. We enrich ourselves and others by sharing and exploring
our similarities and differences. We honor the past as we invent the future.

SERVICE

We believe in helping others. We work with others to improve the communities in which we
now live and will touch in the future. Knowledge invests us with the power to improve our world
and the responsibility to act. 

We accomplish this by focusing on the four core values that have been our tradition since 1912:
Character, Scholarship, Culture, and Service.

CHARACTER

We believe in integrity. We act with honesty and respect toward others. We take responsibility
for our actions and reflect on their impact on ourselves and others.

SCHOLARSHIP

We believe in learning. We use rigorous, responsible, and critical inquiry to understand existing
knowledge, acquire and share new knowledge, and apply what we learn. Each of us is both
student and teacher.

CULTURE

We believe in celebrating humanity. We enrich ourselves and others by sharing and exploring
our similarities and differences. We honor the past as we invent the future.

*copied from the Mansfield University Website*

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Everything I stated about falls under the Mansfield Creed in one way or another. It is all pretty
explanatory. Service, helping others, it’s what I want to do in Psychology. Ending Bullying, etc.,
that is all part of my service back to the community. Character: I believe in honesty and
truthfulness, and respect of others. Always tell the truth, stop the hate and division and violence,
and name calling that is happening in politics today. Scholarship: learning, Education.
Education is Knowledge. Culture: celebrating humanity: I honor the past and the present of our
nation, and the ancestry of my family, where we came from, how we got here, and how that all
has played a key role in shaping me now and for the future. The Mansfield Creed helps to create
and shape that balanced wheel I am talking about.

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 MISSION STATEMENT

I am a Mansfield University Psychology major, taking the necessary courses to achieve this goal.
My purpose is to fulfil said requirements to become a counselor. In achieving this goal, I am
currently enrolled in Mansfield’s on-line courses of Career Planning and Psychological
Disorders.

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 VISION STATEMENT

My vision for the future is to complete the necessary requirements of the Psychology Major, and
graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology, with an emphasis in Counseling.
My future as a Psychology graduate with be to pursue gainful employment in my field, and
eventually continue my education goal of a Master’s Degree in Psychology, so that I may
broaden my career choices within the field of Psychology.

I see myself accomplishing my Bachelor Degree in Psychology in two years. I see myself
gainfully employed shortly thereafter in the field of counseling that my Bachelor’s Degree will
afford me. Within two years of practicing in this field, I will have accomplished my first goal,
and will move on to my second goal of returning to college to obtain my Master’s Degree in
Psychology; while continuing to work in some capacity of my field of counseling.

Upon completion of my Master’s Degree I see myself gainfully employed in the field of
Counseling within a Mental Health facility, helping others to regain their sense of self, so that
they too may continue on the path of life and affords them success and happiness. I also see
myself owning my own home, and living comfortably. With this education and career success, I
see myself in pursuance of marriage, and eventually having a family. Thus, fulfilling my dreams
in the world of Psychology, and Family.

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 Strategic Self-Assessment
Personal and Professional Career Related Strengths.

Personal:
a. Compassionate: I have sympathy and compassion for those who have suffered hard
times, and willing to work with people to regain their self-identity.
b. Musically Talented: I have a great talent for singing. I am able to express myself on
levels that I verbally may not be as good at through my music.
c. Politically passionate: I have a great interest in Politics, and I have learned much
through research and dedication in hopes of being a part of change for this nation, and
people. Life liberty and the pursuit of happiness is very important to survival.
d. Helpful: I enjoy helping others who are struggling with their problems whether it is
understanding what is going in in their personal life, or at work if they are struggling with
understanding how to do something.
e. Empathetic: I am empathetic to others and what is happening in their personal and
professional lives. Whenever I can relate to what is going on with someone, I am always
available to be there for them, to show I do understand and recognize why they are
suffering.
f. Friendly: I am a friendly person once you get to know me. I like to be with people.
g. Dedicated: I am dedicated at getting things done that are required of me. If I run into
any issues, I will always let it be known to those that need to know, I am struggling, and
need assistance so that I can complete what is asked of me.
h. Honest: I am honest. I do not manipulate or mislead people into believing something
that is not true of myself or what I am doing. It is always better to honest and up front
with people, so they can trust you.
i. Trustworthy: I am trustworthy. I will not mislead people, or make someone feel that
they cannot trust me. I mean what I say, and I say what I mean.
Professional:
My professional career is limited. Work life has been school, and a job I thoroughly
enjoyed’ which was actually my first job.
1. Helpful: I am always willing to help another person in the area that they need
assistance with. I want everyone to succeed.
2. Dedicated: I am dedicated to what my assignments in school are; and work hard to
complete things asked of me. I am dedicated at work with all that is required of me
and am always willing to ask if there is anything else, I can do.
3. One Time: I am always on time for work, usually arriving at least 10-15 minutes
early so that I may get myself ready to start on time. Being late is a big pet peeve for
me.
4. Team Player: I always am willing to help out another and work with another to
make sure that what is required of myself and others is completed accurately and with
as much perfection as possible. I will do all that is asked of me, and more if
necessary, without complaint.

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 5. Trustworthy: I am trustworthy. I can be given a task to do; and the person assigning
the task is able to feel comfortable in leaving me to do the work without having to
keep checking on me to make sure I am doing what is required of me. If I need
assistance, I will ask,
Career Related areas to grow and improve on.

1. Organization: Organization is not one of my strongest suits. I am always striving to

become more organized, for example using a planner and writing things down, so I do
not forget.
2. Setting Career Goals: Keeping up to speed on what is available to me in my chosen
field of work; and then setting goals that are attainable within a certain time frame to
meet my goal.
3. Keep Learning: Learning as much about my career choice and where it will take me,
and if need be applying for a higher educational path, Master’s Degree to attain my goal.
4. Develop a Plan to achieve my goal. Setting a 1-3-5-10 year plan on what I want to
accomplish in my chosen career, and ways in which I will be able to attain those goals.

Career Related Opportunities with a BA in Psychology:

A. Changing location: Moving to a different location that where I currently reside, in

order to broaden my choices and availability of my chosen field of Psychology.
B. Attend Career Day Symposiums: Attend Career Symposiums that are in the field
of Psychology, in which I would meet possible employers, talk with them, and
provide them with my resume. Face to face is vital.
C. Join Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations that
encompass Psychology, to build my network.
D. Higher Education: Apply to a Graduate Program in Psychology, and complete my
Master’s Degree
E. Research: Research and look into different aspects of the field of Psychology that I
may enter as a graduate of Psychology, in order to get my foot in the door, and
expand upon my viability within my field.

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Challenges and Barriers:
1. Past Mental Health issues. It is a concern of mine that my past mental health issues
will be a problem with gaining employment in my chosen field. I will need to take
the past problems and turns them into learning and growth experiences to show the
positive outcome to what happened.
2. Competition: Competing with others who have recently graduated with their BA in
Psychology; who are applying for the same position I am. Learning to sell myself to
the potential employer. Mock interviews with other professionals to gain
interviewing skills.
3. Economy: Economic conditions and the economy as a whole. Are we in a
Recession? Depression? Are companies, hiring or are they in hiring freeze due to the
economic conditions of the day. This is why politics is important. Majority of what
happens in our economics falls greatly on the shoulders of our elected officials.
Perhaps my knowledge of Psychology might help me win an election should I attempt
to run again as an elected official. I may be the change agent the economy needs.
4. Master’s Degree: Not having the advanced degree. It limits what is available to me
in my chosen field. Many opportunities in Psychology require the Master’s Degree.
5. Young and Inexperienced: Being young with pretty much no prior work experience
to draw upon for a potential employer to validate what I am trying to sell. Taking
seminars and participating in mock interviews, making sure my resume shines and
makes me stand out above the next candidate.

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 Career Related Goals

Goals for the next 6-12 months and/or prior to M.U. graduation
 Complete all General Education Requirements by end of Summer Semester 2021
 Complete all Minor requirements by end of Spring Semester 2021
 Bring my GPA up to at least a 3.0 by end of Spring Semester 2021

Goals for 1 to 5 years after M.U. graduation

 Be admitted to a MA program by Fall of 2024
 Complete a Summer Internship by end of Summer 2021
 Gainfully employed in the Psychology field by Fall of 2022

Goals for 6-10 years after M.U. graduation

 Research the possibility of Doctoral program by Fall 2028
 Gainfully employed as a counselor in a hospital environment by 2027
 Completion of Master’s Program by end of Spring Semester 2026

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 Strategic Plan 1
A. Bring my GPA up to at least a 3.0 by end of Spring Semester 2021
My present GPA is at a 2.8. This is due to some low grades from previous semesters. My goal is
to have my GPA at a 3.0 or higher by the endo of Spring 2021. I will accomplish this by the
following:
B. Follow these steps.

1. Complete all my courses with at least a B+ by the end of this semester doing well on all
quizzes and tests to at least maintain the 2.8.
2. Complete all courses second semester with A if possible or nothing lower than a B
3. Complete all assignments in a timely manner with accuracy and attention to detail
4. Participate in Discussion Boards as required
5. Improving study habits, and note taking.
6. Attending all in person classes, and mandatory zoom classes.
7. Open communication with all professors, on an ongoing basis.
8. Keeping in contact with my academic advisor as necessary.
9. Ongoing communication with my campus counselor.
10. Keeping journal of assignments, tests, quizzes, due dates.
11. Keeping on top of D2L and e mail for class updates and messages.

C. Extenuating Circumstances Fall 2020

Extenuating circumstances occurred this semester with mental health issues, that put me in the
hospital for several days. I addressed this with each of my professors, and was afforded the time
to make up missed assignments. I know that the hospitalization may impact my semester GPA,
thus I will have to work harder during the Spring Semester to recover and increase my GPA by
the end of the semester. I believe this will be accomplished by staying focused and on track, and
having continued communication with professors and my academic advisor.

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 Letter of Intent
I am a Mansfield University Psychology major, taking the necessary courses to achieve this goal.
My purpose is to fulfil said requirements to become a counselor. In achieving this goal, I am
currently enrolled in Mansfield’s on-line courses of Career Planning and Psychological
Disorders. This is my mission statement.

My vision for the future is to complete the necessary requirements of the Psychology Major, and
graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology, with an emphasis in Counseling.
My future as a Psychology graduate with be to pursue gainful employment in my field. I have
gained the knowledge of how to create a Resume that enhances my current skills and knowledge
so that I may be a viable candidate in the working world.

While employed, I will begin my pursuit of a Master’s Degree in Psychology. I have gained a
tremendous amount of knowledge in how pursue a Master’s program. I have learned where to
go to find the pertinent information I need to choose a well-rounded program, and school.

Upon completion of my Master’s Degree I see myself gainfully employed in the field of
Counseling within a Mental Health facility, helping others to regain their sense of self, so that
they too may continue on the path of life and affords them success and happiness. I see myself
owning my own home, and living comfortably. With higher level education and career success, I
see myself married, and having a family. I will have accomplished my goals.

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 Career Research Outline
1. Title Occupation: Mental Health Counselor 21.1014.00

2. Two alternate occupations:

3. Dictionary of Occupational Titles and description of what this indicates:

******Copied and pasted directly from Dictionary of Occupational
Titles/Parts of the Occupational Definition******
“There are seven basic parts to an occupational definition. They present data about a
job in a systematic fashion.” The parts are listed below in the order in which they
appear in every definition:

(1) The Occupational Code Number

(2) The Occupational Title
(3) The Industry Designation
(4) Alternate Titles (if any)
(5) The Body of the Definition
(a) Lead Statement
(b) Task Element Statements
(c) ``May'' Items
(6) Undefined Related Titles (if any)
(7) Definition Trailer

The Occupational Code Number

The first item in an occupational definition is the 9-digit occupational code (in the
preceding example, 652.382-010). In the DOT occupational classification system, each
set of three digits in the 9-digit code number has a specific purpose or meaning.
Together, they provide a unique identification code for a
particular occupation which differentiates it from all others.

The first three digits identify a particular occupational group. All occupations
are clustered into one of nine broad categories (first digit), such as professional,
technical and managerial, or clerical and sales occupations. These categories break
down into 83 occupationally specific ``divisions'' (the first two digits), such as
occupations in architecture and engineering within the professional category, or
stenography, typing, and related occupations in the clerical and sales category.
Divisions, in turn, are divided into small, homogeneous ``groups'' (the first three digits)
The second digit refers to a division within the category’
The third digit defines the occupational group within the division.
The middle three digits of the DOT occupational code are the Worker Functions
ratings of the tasks performed in the occupation.
very job requires a worker to function to some degree in relation to data, people, and
things.

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 A separate digit expresses the worker's relationship to each of these three groups:
The last three digits of the occupational code number serve to differentiate a
particular occupation from all others. A number of occupations may have the same
first six digits, but no two can have the same nine digits.

The Occupational Title

Immediately following the occupational code in every definition is the occupational
base title. The base title is always in upper-case boldface letters. It is the most
common type of title found in the DOT, and is the title by which the occupation is
known in the majority of establishments in which it was found. In the example, CLOTH
PRINTER (any industry) 652.382-010 is a base title.

(a) Master Titles

Some titles are classified as master titles. These titles are designed to eliminate
unnecessary repetition of tasks common to a large number of occupations. Master
titles define the common job tasks having a wide variety of job variables and wide
variety of titles.
.
(b) Term Titles
Another type of DOT title is a term title. These include occupations with the same title
but few common duties. An example of a term definition is:

(3) Industry Designation

The industry designation is in parentheses immediately following the occupational base
title. It often differentiates between two or more occupations with identical titles but
different duties. Because of this, it is an integral and inseparable part of any
occupational title. An industry designation often tells one or more things about an
occupation such as:

4) Alternate Titles
An alternate title is a synonym for the base title. It is not as commonly used as the
base title. Alternate titles are shown in lower-case letters immediately after the base
title and its industrial designation. Alternate titles may not be used by public
employment service offices in assigning occupational classifications. Alternate titles
are cross-referenced to their base titles in the Alphabetical Index of Occupational Titles
(p. 1225). A particular occupation may have a large number of alternate titles or none
at all. Alternate titles carry the code numbers and industry designations of the base
title.

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(5) The Body of the Definition
The body of the definition usually consists of two or three main parts: a lead statement,
a number of task element statements, and a third part known as a may item.

(a) The Lead Statement

The first sentence following the industry designation and alternate titles (if any) is the
lead statement. It is followed by a colon (:). The lead statement summarizes the entire
occupation. It offers essential information such as:
- worker actions
- objective or purpose of the worker actions
- machines, tools, equipment, or work aids used by the worker
- materials used, products made, subject matter dealt with, or services rendered
- instructions followed or judgments made

(b) Task Element Statements

Task element statements indicate the specific tasks the worker performs to accomplish
the overall job purpose described in the lead statement.

(c) ``May'' Items

Many definitions contain one or more sentences beginning with the word ``May''. They
describe duties required of workers in this occupation in some establishments but not
in others. The word ``May'' does not indicate that a worker will sometimes perform this
task but rather that some workers in different establishments generally perform one of
the varied tasks listed.

(6) Undefined Related Titles

Undefined related titles, when applicable, appear at the end of the occupational
definition, with initial capital letters, preceded by a phrase, such as ``May be
designated according to. . .''.
An undefined related title has the same code as its base title. Undefined related titles
found in occupational definitions are listed in the Alphabetical Index of Occupational
Titles in initial capital letters. The entry includes the industry designation and the 9-
digit code of the corresponding base title. In addition, undefined related titles appear
in alphabetical order with their nine-digit code under their appropriate industry in the
list of Occupational Titles Arranged by Industry Designation.

(7) Definition Trailer

Selected characteristics and auxiliary profile data are contained in a ``trailer'' appended
to each definition. The trailer contains the following selected occupational analysis
characteristics: GOE Code; Strength rating; R, M, and L of GED; and SVP.”

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Nature of work:
a. Maintain confidentiality of records relating to clients' treatment.
b. Encourage clients to express their feelings and discuss what is happening in
their lives.
c. Collect information about clients through interviews, observations, or tests.
d. Assess patients for risk of suicide attempts.
e. Fill out and maintain client-related paperwork including federal and state
mandated forms, client diagnostic records, and progress notes.

Jobs available as a college graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree

Behavior Support Specialist (BSS)
Mental Health Specialist
Mental Health Therapist,
Therapist
Mental Health Counselor
Behavior Analyst
Case Manager
Clinician Correctional Counselor

Other occupations related to this job.

19-3031.03 Counseling Psychologists 21-1011.00Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder
Counselors 21-1013.00Marriage and Family Therapists  21-1021.00 Child, Family, and School
Social Workers 21-1023.00Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers 

What is the history of this occupation, and what does it do for society as a whole?
Modern health counseling first began in the 1950s, when the mental health and the system was
being highly scrutinized. In 1963, the Community Health Act helped to develop the modern
counseling we all know today. It was believed that treatment centers instead of mental hospitals
which at that time were ran by the state, could help people’s mental health better.  This helped to
create a demand for counselors.

The counseling profession developed in many ways from responses to changes in society.

Qualities that we aim to have, such as choice, creativity, self-realization, and value of people as a
whole in society have become important to one’s overall success and happiness. and a mental
health counselor provides ongoing psychological care to clients dealing with
depression, substance abuse, unhealthy relationships, and other mental and psychological issues
A mental health counselor helps individuals and families deal with a whole gamut of
emotions, mental health disorders and trauma. A counselor's role is to provide therapy and
coaching to help patients maintain a way to function and live in the ever-changing societal
expectations placed up them.

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4. Training, Licensing, Certification and Other Qualifications.
a. Training:
Training for someone entering this field is usually in the form of a Bachelor’s
Master’s Degree and in some cases a Doctoral Degree.
b. Licensing:
A mental health counselor needs to be licensed in the state in which they want
to work; which for me is Ohio; and it involves passing a written exam. Many
states require that mental health counselors pass the National Counselor
Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE), a test administered by the
National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Certification Name Certifying Organization Type

National Board for Certified

National Certified Counselor    Counselors Advanced

American Academy of Health Care

Providers in the Addictive
Certified Addiction Specialist    Disorders Specialty

National Certified School National Board for Certified

Counselor Counselors Specialty

Certified Clinical Mental Health National Board for Certified

Counselor  Counselors Specialty

National Board for Certified

Master Addictions Counselor    Counselors Specialty

Multiple Sclerosis Certified The Consortium of Multiple

Specialist Sclerosis Centers Specialty

Certification in Cognitive Therapy Academy of Cognitive Therapy Core

Certified Domestic Violence National Association of Forensic Specialty

Counselor Counselors

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 Certification Name Certifying Organization Type

Certified Relocation and Transition National Certification Board for

Specialist Alzheimer Care Advanced

Alliance for Continuing Education

Healthcare CPD Associate in the Health Professionals Core

Other Qualifications:
Get an Undergraduate Degree
Earn a Mental Health Counselor Master's Degree
Most states require earning a Master’s Degree to become a full Mental Health
Counselor
Complete Experience Requirements
In addition to earning a degree, you'll need to participate in several clinical hours, with
all or a portion of them done under supervision.
Pursue Board Certification in Mental Health Counseling
The lowest level of education to pursue this occupation is a Bachelor’s Degree. Having Clinical
experience under supervision during the pursuance of the undergraduate degree is highly
recommended.
The desired level of education for this occupation is a Master’s Degree. A Master’s Degree is
eventually required to continue working in this field in order to advance. A Post Master’s
Degree Certification can be required. State requirements for every state varies. Usually around
1,000-4,000 post master’s hours within 2-3 years in order to advance. Private counseling practice
requirements don't need board certification; but there are some states that substitute the Certified
Clinical Mental Health Counselor credential instead of state licenses or require it in addition to
state licensing.

Major courses of study, or training are most desirable

General Psychology offers an overview of the entire field of psychology which is a
goal of the class, and it provides an introduction to the history of psychology and the scientific
study of the human mind and behavior.
Experimental Psychology this course gives an essential foundation for any psychology
major. Plus, learning about basic research methods is important.
Abnormal Psychology biological, environmental and cultural influences are important
to Psychology and learning what all contributes to why a person may develop disorders.
Personal Psychology A course in personality psychology offers a solid background in
the many different theories of personality development, including Freudian, psychosocial,
behavioral, humanistic, and existential theories. It seeks to understand personality and how it is
different among individuals, and also how people are the same. Psychologists will assess,
diagnose, and treat personality disorders that can interfere with day-to-day life.

20
There are many different psychology courses to choose from. All can be considered important; it
all depends on the particular field you with to go into.
It also depends on which field of Psychology you go into whether it requires a special licensing
and certification, over the general license all counselors and clinician must have.
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) 
Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) both vary by state.

Skills Needed (copied and pasted from the Summary Report for Mental Health Counselors
 Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to
understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at
inappropriate times.
 Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they
react as they do.
 Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
 Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
 Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses
of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
 Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of
potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
 Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or
organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
 Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the
audience.
 Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work
related documents.
 Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
 Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current
and future problem-solving and decision-making.
 Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and
procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
 Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related
information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
 Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
 Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
 Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and
the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

 Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.

 Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

21
  Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in
conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
 Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people
as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
 Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
 Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others
This occupation does not have any specific physical requirements.
Desired Personality Traits: (copied and pasted from the Summary Report for Mental Health
Counselors
 Self-Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check,
controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
 Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and
being understanding and helpful on the job.
 Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
 Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively
with high stress situations.
 Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling
obligations.
 Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a
good-natured, cooperative attitude.
 Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
 Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
 Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding
oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
 Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging
achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
 Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in
completing work tasks.
 Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and
to considerable variety in the workplace.
 Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and
direction.
 Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and
being personally connected with others on the job.
 Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for
and answers to work-related problems.
 Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address
work-related issues and problems.

22
Advancement and Job Outlook:
Expected sequence of positions for Mental Health Counselor
Becoming a mental health counselor is not like an industry job where one might start as a clerk
and work their way up into management. Advancement in the person’s chosen field of Mental
Health Counseling has to do with the amount of Education one has, Bachelor’s Degree, Master
Degree, Doctoral Degree, Licenses, clinical hours one has as a counselor, and Certifications that
may or may not be required for the position, and whether or not the person choses to be an
independent Counselor or work within a hospital or clinical setting. Naturally the salary will be
indicative of the degree you hold, the clinical hours you have logged, experience, licenses, and
certifications you hold. If in a hospital or clinical environment the salary will also be indicative
to what that particular place has established. Being an independent, private counselor’s salary
has more flexibility as to what that person may charge. It may be higher than one who is working
for a hospital or clinic. However, there is an established industry salary that all Mental Health
establishments and private Psychologists must adhere to.

Turnover rate for Mental Health Employees

The average employee turnover rate in behavioral health is estimated at 40%. However, it’s not
uncommon to hear of rates as high as 70%. This constant churn of employees not only impacts
the overall continuity of care organizations can provide but creates an unstable work
environment for staff, often perpetuating the problem.

23
 Ryan Scott McClain

Current/College Address: 50 Morris Dr. #817 Permanent Address: 13868 Chippewa Trail
Mansfield, PA. 16933 Middleburg Hts., OH. 44130
Phone number: (440))465-4998
Email: [email protected]

Qualifications
Exceptional ability to build rapport with others, and the ability to make others feel comfortable discussing
with me what is happening in their life. Effective leadership skills, with the ability to take control of any
situation; and turn it into a positive, successful outcome.

Education
Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Mansfield University, Mansfield, PA.16933
Concentration: Psychology/Counseling, Minor: Music/Vocal Performance
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2022
GPA: 2.88
Relevant Coursework:
Psychological Disorders
Career Planning
Introduction to General Psychology
Special Project;
Career Research project: Master’s Program in Psychology, with an emphasis in Counseling. Researching
available Institutions to continue my education, providing growth and challenging careers within the field
of Psychology.

Work Experience
Walmart, Strongsville, Ohio
January 2020 to February 2020
Job title: Sales Associate
Stocker. Shopper for on line food orders and bringing them to people’s cars. Bringing carts from the
parking lot into the store. Fast paced/multi-task environment. Inventory. Customer Service. Inventory.

Regal Theater’s, Middleburg Heights, Ohio

October 2019 to November 2019
Job title: Theater associate
Running the cash register with accuracy. Customer Service. Multi task required. theater locator. Clean
and organize theaters after each move in a quick timely manner before next movie start. Fast paced.

24
Acquired Skills
Excellent leadership skills. Excellent communication skills. Excellent Customer service skills. Attention
to detail. Excellent training skills. Excellent sales skills. Excellent multi-task skills. Excellent
organizational skills. Excellent time management skills. Excellent computer skills.
Knowledge of hardware and software applications. Excellent team work skills. Competed vocally
throughout Cuyahoga County, winning top placements. Successfully performed at Carnegie Hall two
times.

Activities/volunteer work
Boy Scouts of America Dates of Membership 2007-2015
Offices held First Class Scout. Group leader and coordinator. Trainer and educator to Scouts of lower
rank.
Boy Scout’s summer camp for 3 years. Community Service to elderly within the community, Lead
representative for yearly Popcorn Drive. Completion of several awards and patches and life skills
achievements

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church: Dates of Membership 1999-Present

Attained First Holy Communion, Confirmation. Member of the Children’s Music Ministry from 2006 to
2015. Performed in several musicals with lead solo speaking and singing parts, including Sunday music
ministry during Mass. Member of Adult Music Ministry from 2015 to present. Performed in several
musicals with lead solo singing and acting parts. Sunday music Ministry during Mass.

Ohio Libertarian Party: Candidate for State Representative for the 14th District of Ohio. Coordinated,
ran and Participated in a Debate with my opposing Democratic Candidate. Campaigned throughout the
14th District of Ohio. Secured 30% of the vote on Election day as the Libertarian Candidate.

References
Karen Crisp
Academic Advisor/Professor, Psychology Department
Mansfield University
31 South Academy St.
Mansfield, PA. 16933
(570) 662-4000 Email: [email protected]

John Hudak
Director of Music Ministry
St. Bartholomew Roman Catholic Church
14865 Bagley Rd.
Middleburg Heights, OH. 44130
(440) 842-5400

Karri Verno, Psychology Department

Professor
Mansfield University
31 South Academy St.
Mansfield, PA. 16933
(570) 662-4000 Email: [email protected]

25
Program Completion and Post-Graduation Plan
1. Ryan McClain  2. November 3, 2020
3. Advisor’s Name: Karen Crisp  4. Concentration: Counseling/Mental Health
5. When do you intend to graduate? _X_ __May __X August __X December Year: 2022/2023 (see
additional page.)

6. Preferred Capstone experience (a, b, c, or d)? (See additional page.)

a. __X Internship b. ____Independent Study c. _____Research Experience
Describe what you hope to do (setting, activity, with whom, etc.):
When do you plan to do it/have done it? ____ Spring __X__ Summer ____ Fall Year: 2022
Or: d. _X Two additional upper-division courses. If so, list your proposed courses:
1. PSY 4430 Personality Psychology 2. PSY 4445 Advanced Counseling

Explain how this capstone activity fit with your career goals (e.g., your vision and strategic plan for your
career): (see additional page.)

7. What do you expect to do in the year after you graduate from M.U?
_X___ Work in Psych/HR related field (see additional page)

8. What’s the likelihood you will work towards a graduate degree within 5 years of graduation?
____ zero ____ low ____ possible ____ probable __X__ definite

9. Ultimately, what is your goal?

__X__ Obtain a master’s degree (See additional page.)
__X__ Obtain a doctoral degree (Possibly. Not sure yet.)

At this point, what would you say is your career goal or field you will work in (e.g., human resource
management, school counseling/ psychology, mental health counselor, aging, criminal justice/law
enforcement, animal training, art therapy, elder services, business, health psychology/public health,
education, ….) 

Type of work you hope to do? (see additional page.)

26
Program Completion and Post-Graduation Plan page 2
#5. I have marked all three dates and 2022/23 because I am not exactly sure when I will have all
my requirements completed; as it will depend on how many credits, I can successfully handle
each semester, and whether there will be classes available to me over the summer months. My
goal is to complete my requirements and graduate May 2022, but if it takes a semester or two
longer, I am not worried. I would rather graduate on a high note with a firm GPA, than rush
things along.
#6. I have checked both the Internship and two additional upper division courses because as I
stated it will all depend on where I fall in graduating; whether I do the Internship or the upper
division classes.
This Capstone exercise helps to put everything I need to accomplish in perspective, and shows
me the relative importance of each thing I need to accomplish successfully; while providing me
with a realistic, measurable, and attainable goal. This helps me to keep track of my progression
through the Psychology program, and helps me gauge where I need to go next. I need and
appreciate the structure that all this gives me, so as to not become overwhelmed, and
disorganized.
7. As I stated in my Vision statement, I hope to be gainfully employed within the Psychology
field, in a counseling environment in some capacity. That is my goal.
The type of work I would like to do is to become a Mental Health Counselor, and work within a
Mental Health facility or Hospital environment.

27
 Graduate Program Research
The type of Graduate school program I am interested in is the areas of either Clinical
Psychology, and or Clinical Psychology/Mental Health. The areas where these fields could
apply are in the Mental Health industry either in a private setting, or in a Hospital/Mental Health
Facility setting. I am also looking into the School setting as a possibility. Either of the areas fits
with my career goals, and where I see myself being most successful in.
Earning a clinical psychology master’s degree will prepare me for a variety of careers within
mental health counseling.

I am aware that obtaining a Master’s Degree in clinical Psychology programs include a solid
GRE score, a minimum GPA in the Bachelor’s Degree Program, letters of recommendation, a
statement of purpose as to why I wish to be considered for the Master’s Degree Program.
Related clinical experience is a plus, but is not always mandatory. It is up to the department to
decide. There is also, usually, an interview with the Department to assess if one is a capable
candidate for the Psychology department.
I am aware that earning a Master’s Degree in clinical Psychology typically takes 2 years of full-
time study to complete. This may vary by school and previous education and enrollment status
of individual programs.

Typical core coursework in clinical Psychology master’s programs include for most Master’s
Degrees include the following.

Psychotherapy
Statistics
Ethics and Professionalism
Child Psychology
Abnormal Psychology
Clinical Assessment
Group Therapy
Advanced psychology
Personality Testing
Marital and family systems
Therapy and crisis intervention
Studies of Mental Illness
Diagnosing and treating patients’ methods

28
The following two schools appeal to me.

Cleveland State University MA in Psychology.

Cleveland State University
Public University
Cleveland State University is a public research university in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, United
States. It was established in 1964, and opened for classes in 1965 after acquiring the entirety of
Fenn College, a private school that had been in operation since 1923. CSU absorbed the
Cleveland-Marshall College of Law in 1969.
 Ranking: #298 National University (2021)
 Acceptance rate: 94.00% (2019-20)
 Tuition: in-state $11,100 / out-of-state $16,000 (2020)
 Undergraduates: 11,784 (2020)
 Enrollment: 15,648 (2020)

COLLEGE OF SCIENCES AND HEALTH PROFESSIONS

The program in Clinical Psychology at Cleveland State is designed to prepare a student to further
their education at the doctoral level or for post-M.A. employment. I like this idea because
should I continue on to the doctoral level, this provides a good foundation. I also like this
program at Cleveland state because it prepares the student for employment in settings that offer
psychological services. This program is appealing because it is designed to help students acquire
core knowledge with the coursework. It is also appealing because it is designed to help develop
the necessary skills one needs to provide a competent psychological service within the
community, or hospital. It is also very appealing because the MA Graduates with this degree are
admitted into doctoral programs in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. And, quite important
to me is that the program is offered in my home town. Being that it is offered here in Cleveland,
where I reside, it would take a great portion of financial obligation off of me.
The Clinical specialization requires of all applicants:
1. Satisfactory Verbal and Quantitative scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
General Test (preference given to scores at the 50th percentile or better);
2. A strong undergraduate record (minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA) with a firm
foundation in the basic principles of psychology (those without a major in psychology
must provide evidence of successful completion of the following coursework:
Introductory Psychology, Personality or Theories of Personality, Abnormal Psychology,
Memory and Cognition, Basic Statistics, and Psychology Laboratory and/or Research
Design);
3. A personal statement that describes the applicant's reasons for pursuing a graduate degree
in clinical psychology and this program in particular;
4. Official transcripts for all colleges and universities attended;
5. Two letters of recommendation;
6. A curriculum vitae (CV) or Resume and;
29
 7. An interview, by invitation, with faculty members of the Clinical Psychology
specialization committee.
It is also highly recommended that preparing beyond the minimum suggested above ; which may
also include research and clinically-relevant experience will likely create a stronger application.
At Cleveland State to be considered in Good Academic Standing, a graduate student must
maintain a graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher. If a student receives a C in a class, it is also highly
recommended the student re take the class.
**A student has a period of six years from date of entry into the College of Graduate
Studies to complete requirements for a master's degree. A student who is a candidate
for a master’s degree must also fulfil the College of Graduate Studies residence
requirements of earning at least 16 credit hours of acceptable graduate credits with a
course grade of B or better while they are enrolled at Cleveland State. There is only 8
credit hours in any of the 400 level courses can be used to meet graduation requirements.
Doctoral degrees at Cleveland State usually require 30 semester credit hours for
graduation. Doctoral degrees also require successful completion of at least 90 semester
credit hours of work, and 60 credit hours of work beyond the master’s degree. A student
also has 6 years from their date of entry into the graduate program to complete the
requirements for a graduate license program. No coursework other than the capstone/exit
project course can be used to satisfy the certificate program. There is a minimum of an
average of 3.0 for all the 400 level and above coursework to satisfy the license program
requirement.

DEGREE Required Coursework

YEAR ONE: FALL SEMESTER (14 CREDITS)

 PSY 511 - Univariate Statistics and Experimental Methodology

 PSY 535 - Clinical Interviewing Practicum
 PSY 538 - Intellectual Assessment and Practicum for Clinical Assessment
 PSY 555 - Adult Psychopathology
YEAR ONE: SPRING SEMESTER (16 CREDITS)

 PSY 604 - Concepts and Methods of Individual Psychotherapy

 PSY 611 - Advanced Data Analysis With Computer Applications
 PSY 651 - Clinical Psychopharmacology
 PSY 660 - Ethical, Legal and Professional Issues
 PSY 696 - Special Problems In Psychology  (for doctoral preparation track students), OR
 PSY Elective (for practitioner track students)

YEAR TWO: FALL SEMESTER (10 CREDITS)

 PSY 587 - Personality Testing and Laboratory

 PSY 690 - Fieldwork Placement

30
  PSY 699 - Research and Thesis (variable credit) (for doctoral preparation students), OR
 PSY Elective (for practitioner track students)

YEAR TWO: SPRING SEMESTER (10 CREDITS)

 PSY 525 - Social Psychology

 PSY 691 - Fieldwork Placement II
 PSY 699 - Research and Thesis (variable credit) (for doctoral preparation students)  OR
 PSY Elective (for practioner track students)
Total:  50 credit hours

***Scholarship information unavailable.

31
 University San Diego MA in Psychology
University of San Diego
Private University
The University of San Diego is a private Roman Catholic research university in San Diego,
California. Founded in July 1949 as the San Diego College for Women and San Diego
University, the academic institutions merged from the California school system into University
of San Diego in 1972.

 Ranking: #88 National University tie (2021)

 Acceptance rate: 49.00% (2019-20)
 Tuition: $52,860 (2020)
 Undergraduates: 5,919 (2020)
 Enrollment: 9,181 (2020)

School of Leadership and Education Sciences/ Clinical Mental Health

This master’s program is appealing because the graduate students are hailed as successful
change agents. Students are accepted for who they are. I like the idea that I will be mentored,
encouraged to do my best, will be challenged, will acquire important leadership skills, and I will
be listened to regarding me education. I will also have the ability here to gain a lifelong network
of connections. Having a strong network is extremely important in success. This school is also
appealing to me As I am a San Diego Native, I grew up in and around the area the school is
located. I know the area well. I wish to one day return to my birth state of California, to settle
down. I have a great many friends and family in Southern California who would also be an
excellent support group. Not to mention the fabulous weather.

To be accepted into the Grad School program at USD the candidate must have the following:

Satisfactory Verbal and Quantitative scores on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
General Test (preference given to scores at the 50th percentile or better);
A strong undergraduate record (minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA) with a firm
foundation in the basic principles of psychology (those without a major in psychology
must provide evidence of successful completion of the following coursework:
Introductory Psychology, Personality or Theories of Personality, Abnormal Psychology,
Memory and Cognition, Basic Statistics, and Psychology Laboratory and/or Research
Design);
A personal statement that describes the applicant's reasons for pursuing a graduate degree
in clinical psychology and this program in particular;
Official transcripts for all colleges and universities attended;

32
 Two letters of recommendation from professors of undergraduate program or from
current employers in the field of Psychology.
A current resume or curriculum vitae is required.

Graduate Candidates must also submit a Statement of Purpose:

 A 500-word maximum statement of purpose: A brief narrative describing myself, my

career goals, and the importance of graduate study in clinical mental health
counseling at this point in my life.

Graduate students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in all undergraduate coursework, especially
in psychology and or other social science fields are recommended. Experience in a related field
is recommended, but is not required for admission.
Graduate students must go through and interview process with the counseling program, to be
admitted to the program.

Degree Requirements
Program Courses

The following are the courses all students in the mental health counseling programs are required
to complete. These courses are recommended by Council for Accreditation of Educational
Programs, and the National Board of Certified Counselors. Students must complete core and
specialization courses specific areas of professional practice. The program also requires the
student to complete three terms of practice or fieldwork in an approved setting related to the
career goal chosen

CMHC Program Plan - Year 1

Code Title Units
Fall I
COUN 502 Professional Orientation, Law and Ethics in Counseling 3
COUN 520 Counseling Theories and Practice 3
COUN 541 Advanced Counseling: Diagnosis And Treatment Planning 3
COUN 564 Counseling Skills 3
Intersession I
COUN 505 Human Development 3
Spring I
COUN 526 Group Counseling 3
COUN 530 Assessment Techniques in Counseling 3
COUN 547 Risk Assessment and Trauma Intervention in Clinical Mental Health 3
Counseling
COUN 555 Evidence Based Counseling Theory and Techniques 3
Summer I
COUN 510 Career Development Across the Lifespan 3
COUN 515 Multicultural Counseling 3

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Code Title Units
COUN 598P Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum 3
Total Units 36
CMHC Program Plan - Year 2
Code Title Units
Fall II
COUN 533 Seminar in Field Based Research: Proposal Development 1.5
COUN 542 Addictions Counseling 3
COUN 544 Intro Family Counseling 3
COUN 598P Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum 3
Intersession II
COUN 562 Positive Psychology: Theory and Applications 3
Spring II
COUN 534 Seminar in Field Based Research: Analysis and Reporting of 1.5
Research
COUN 549 Psychopharmacology 3
COUN 550 Couples and Sexuality 3
COUN 598P Clinical Mental Health Counseling Practicum 3
Total Units 24
Clinical Contact Hours are required. There is a minimum of 700 hours of supervised clinical
hours over three semesters. There is a requirement of at least 240 direct service hours during the
three semesters of practice. The first semester has a requirement of 100 hours, and 40 hours of
direct service as well as a minimum of 120 direct hours leading groups.

Capstone Research Project

The Counseling Program at USD has required a capstone research project defense as part of the
assessment of student abilities to complete the program. The Research project defense requires
that All students must complete a  research project in consultation with their advisor. In addition
to the Capstone presentation, every student is required to turn in a formal written ‘Research
Brief’ project report. This capstone project is usually done during the final semester of
coursework.

Practicum
This is very appealing to me because the CMHC practicum (COUN 587, 597 and 598)
experiences represent a major component in master's level clinical training. It shows the courses
taken the last three terms of the CMHC program and it is the supervised clinical experience
providing direct service to clients. This tells me that the University takes great pride in
graduating Master’s candidates that are well rounded and capable of being knowledgeable and
experienced in their field. I like that the fact the CMHC program, are oriented towards providing
clinical counseling in settings that provide mental health services, which is an area I am seriously
considering entering. Competence of high caliber is required. I like that. One must know what
they are doing in the field of Mental Health, and/or any other Psychology field. People’s lives
depend on their therapist. The CMHC courses have a multilayer approach to supervision of

34
students. Student trainees have onsite individual and group supervision. The trainees also have
a weekly group and bi-weekly individual supervision from the USD Psychology faculty.

USD Practicum sites where training is utilized

 Center for Community Solutions (CCS)
 Alvarado Parkway Institute (API)
 North County Lifeline
 Veteran’s Village of San Diego (VVSD)
 Community Research Foundation – START (Short Term Acute Residential
Treatment) Programs
 Southern California American Indian Resource Center (SCAIR)
 San Diego County Office of Education Juvenile Court and Community Schools
 Community Research Foundation – Wellness and Recovery Centers - Maria
Sardiñas, Douglas Young, South Bay, Wellness and Recovery Centers
 Neighborhood House Association – Project Enable
 San Diego City College Mental Health Counseling Center
 The Monarch School

Every Master’s Degree student will be able to do the following upon graduation from USD.

Demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and level of professional identity as a counselor; as they
pertain to professional history and philosophy, roles and responsibilities, advocacy and
interagency collaboration, standards and credentials, certification and licensure, ethical and legal
standards, and professional membership and service.
Integrate knowledge pertaining to research, theories, and practice strategies to advocate for and
serve socially and culturally diverse clients in a multi-cultural society.
Utilize theories, models, research evidence, and practice strategies related to human growth and
development; including social, cultural and societal influences on the life stages.
Utilize theories, models, research evidence and practice relating to career development at all
stages of the lifespan.
Utilize theories, models, research evidence and practice strategies to build helping relationships
with diverse clients.
Integrate knowledge about group dynamics, group development and process theories, group
leadership styles, and group counseling methods as they ethically and professionally practice
group leadership skills.
Incorporate ethical guidelines of the profession and research evidence when selecting,
administering, and interpreting developmentally and culturally appropriate assessments for their
socially and culturally diverse clients.

35
Evaluate and incorporate ethically and culturally relevant research findings when selecting
strategies for interventions, treatments, and program evaluations.
Apply effective principles and practices for diagnosis, treatment, referral, and prevention when
initiating, maintaining, and terminating counseling services for socially and culturally diverse
clients.
Demonstrate preparedness for participation and leadership in the design, delivery, management
and accountability of school counseling programs; while considering developmental and
functioning levels of students, available school/family/community resources, and research-based
prevention/intervention/crisis management practices.
***copied from the USD website.

Master of Arts Programs Costs at USD

 MA in Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Application Enrollment 2020-2021 Health

Fee Deposit Fee Tuition Services
$45  $200  Rate per Unit: $1,509 $170
 Number of Units: 60 
One-time, non-refundable Non-refundable and applied to tuition  Estimated Total Tuition: $90,540  Per semester

Other Costs
High estimates for:
Books and Housing in Personal Expenses/
Supplies San Diego Miscellaneous
$1,080 $22,166 $5,052

Parking Fees*:
Student Parking $375
West Parking Structure $225
Perimeter Parking $125
Motorcycle Parking $60
Hourly Parking $2.25

36
Scholarships and Grants available

USD scholarship and grant programs are designed to make graduate school more accessible .
There is an entire team at SOLES helping students navigate the options available.

There are a wide range of scholarships available, including diversity-based, merit-based, and
others. Below you can explore your options, and if you're an applicant from the U.S., be sure to
file a FAFSA before applying for additional funding.

University of San Diego In house Scholarships

Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund Created, funded and directed by USD alumni, the USD
Alumni Endowed Scholarship Fund was launched in 2006 to provide much-needed scholarships
for all USD students (graduate and undergraduate). This scholarship is open to current USD
students with financial need, strong academic merit and a desire to give back to USD or the local
community. Typical awards are $2,000. Applications are accepted December through February
and awarded the next academic year.

Outside Scholarships
The guide offers a variety of scholarships for graduate students, describes the federal aid
available to them, and provides five tips to help students get more financial aid. This is an
outside resource that is not affiliated with the University of San Diego.

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