Supervising the School Psychology Practicum: A Guide for Field and University Supervisors

"Kelly & Davis have written an authoritative and practical guide for university and field based practicum supervisors. I wish that I had such a guide when I was assigned to organize and supervise my first school psychology practicum. Written with the field supervisor in mind, it addresses the joys and challenges of supervising novice practicum trainees in the field."

--Mark E. Swerdlik, PhD, APBB, Coordinator, Graduate Programs in School Psychology, Illinois State University

Field and university-based practicum supervisors required to mentor school psychology students often lack the training and resources to fulfill this role with expertise and confidence. This is the firstever guide for supervisors who are overseeing school psychology students throughout the course of their practicum. Brimming with practical information, the book explains how to develop, implement, document, and supervise a range of field experiences. It offers resources to support student growth over the course of the practicum experience, including step-by-step information about supervision models, evaluation systems, site-based activities, and ways to address common graduate student difficulties.

The book is organized around the chronological experience of the trainee, beginning with orientation to the site through transition to internship. Each chapter focuses on three key supervisory roles: candidate skill development, supervision, and advancement and evaluation. The guide also addresses how university and field-based supervisors can communicate and collaborate with each other to enhance training. Content aligns with the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) training standards. Useful tools to document and support candidates, including forms, checklists, and other resources for supervisors and trainers, are included in an easy-to-reproduce format as well as electronic downloads.

KEY FEATURES:

Kristy K. Kelly, PhD, is an associate professor and director of field training in the School Psychology Program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP). She has supervised and trained more than 400 students, ranging from first-year candidates to interns. She is a licensed clinical and school psychologist in the State of Illinois and holds the National Certification in School Psychology (NCSP). She was employed for a number of years with the Northern Suburban Special Education District (NSSED) in Illinois, where she worked with children with exceptional social and emotional needs. Dr. Kelly teaches courses in behavioral assessment, consultation, practicum, and internship. Dr. Kelly's research focuses on supervision and training in school psychology, consultation, and family engagement.

Shanna D. Davis, PhD, is an assistant professor at Eastern Washington University (EWU). She was a practicing school psychologist and administrator in the Minneapolis public schools for 9 years. She has taught at the university level at the University of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, and Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Dr. Davis supervises practicum at EWU and teaches courses in consultation, behavioral assessment, professional school psychology, and assessment. Her research focuses on early childhood classroom consultation and supervision.