Field experiences are an essential part of preparing for careers in counseling, leadership, and related fields. During practicum and internship placements, students apply what they’ve learned in the classroom while gaining real-world professional experience under supervision.

Field experiences are required for students in the following programs:

Students in these programs complete practicum and internship placements that align with the expectations and schedules of their assigned school, agency, or site. 

For students in other non-teacher education programs who take optional field experience courses — or who are interested in pursuing field experiences or internships — we encourage you to work closely with your advisor, program director, and/or the Office of Field Experiences. Together, they can help you explore available pathways, options, and eligibility requirements.

Criminal Background Check

All students participating in education and counseling field experiences must complete a Criminal Background Check (CBC).

Reports are valid for six months.

Students must ensure their CBC is current before beginning any placement.

Support and Contact Information

For specific questions about counseling and therapy internships or practicums, please contact your program field experience coordinator:

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Field Experiences

Practicum and internship requirements for Clinical Mental Health Counseling align with CACREP standards.

The CMHC Clinical Field Experiences Manual contains detailed requirements, forms, and policies. Students must complete a permission to register form and an App State internship contract (electronic, completed with your advisor) before registering for CED 5902 or CED 6902.

Practicum in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CED 5902)
  • Hours: 100 total (40 direct, 60 indirect), 10–15 hrs/week at one site
  • Supervision:
    • 1 hr/week individual or triadic with site supervisor
    • 1.5–3 hrs/week group supervision with faculty
    • 1 hr/week individual or triadic with university supervisor
  • Requirements:
    • Audio/video recording of sessions
    • Midterm and final evaluations
    • 10 group facilitation hours (may be completed here or in internship)
    • Professional behavior and ACA ethics compliance

See full details in the CMHC Clinical Field Experiences Manual.

Internship in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CED 6902)
  • Hours: 600 total (240 direct, 360 indirect), 20–22 hrs/week at one or two sites
  • Supervision:
    • 1 hr/week individual or triadic with site supervisor
    • 1.5–3 hrs/week group supervision with faculty
    • Additional university supervision as needed
  • Requirements:
    • Audio/video recording of sessions
    • Midterm and final evaluations
    • Group facilitation hours if not completed in practicum
    • Professional behavior and ACA ethics compliance

See full details in the CMHC Clinical Field Experiences Manual.

Supervisor Qualifications

On-site supervisors must have:

  • A master’s degree in counseling or a related field
  • Relevant licensure/certification
  • At least 2 years of professional experience in the specialty area
  • Training in counseling supervision

See a thorough explanation of site supervisor responsibilities in the CMHC Clinical Field Experiences Manual. Additional resources for site supervisors can be found in our Site Supervision Resources Confluence space/Drive folder.

Licensure Information

Requirements and application instructions for licensure can be found on the North Carolina Board of Licensed Professional Counselors (NCBLPC) website.

Additional resources to guide you through the application process can be found in our LCMHCA Application Information Confluence space/Drive folder.

Students’ Rights in Field Placements

Field Placements

Field placements are designed to help you grow as a professional, teacher, and colleague. While professionalism and collegiality are expected, your safety and well-being are our top priority.

  • Field experience candidates remain students of Appalachian State University and are entitled to the same rights and protections as on campus.
  • No student should ever feel threatened or unsafe in their placement.
  • The Office of Field Experiences is committed to creating the best possible professional environments, though we acknowledge that challenges may arise.

If You Need Assistance with a Field Replacement Concern

If you encounter concerns in your field placement, we encourage you to first address them in a professional and collegial manner. If additional support is needed, please reach out to:

Our Commitment

The Reich College of Education stands firmly committed to the safety, dignity, and success of every student. This commitment extends to all field placements and applies regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion.