Finding a clinical placement is, beyond question, a challenge. There are some tips you can use to
make the process a bit easier.
1. Mental Preparation
Before you do anything else, you need to prep yourself mentally. There are three equally important
parts to this mental preparation.
A. Keep in mind that it takes the average MFT student at NCU approximately 15 weeks to find a
placement site/supervisor.
• Start networking early and often
• Ask for leads
• Prepare
B. Know what you have to offer. Highlight your:
• Top-quality training at NCU
• Experiences
• Natural abilities
• The uniqueness and quality of MFTs
C. Expect to get turned down. It happens.
• Learn from the experience
• Don't take it personally (It might just not be a good fit)
• Stay optimistic
• Remember it does not matter how many times you hear "No," as long as yo eventually hear "Yes."
2. Searching for a Site and Supervisor
There are a number of ways to approach your search for a practicum site and supervisor. Ideally, the
site you find will have a qualified local systemic clinical supervisor (an AAMFT-approved supervisor
or equivalent), so it makes sense to start with searching for sites that will be able to provide both the
client contact and the supervision required for practicum and internship. However, in certain locales,
it might be necessary to search for a supervisor and then find a site.
TIPS SHEET
FINDING A CLINICAL PLACEMENT
