OTH 622: Fieldwork Seminar and Professional Identity

The fieldwork seminar and professional identify exploration course is a foundational course that is designed to assist students in the development of their professional identify in preparation for their fieldwork experiences and future careers. This seminar-style course will introduce students to the fieldwork process and student expectations. Throughout the course, students will engage in group processes to facilitate personal growth, to develop and apply effective communication skills, and facilitate professional development. Through discussion and a series of active learning activities students are encouraged to become reflective practitioners who are more personally aware of themselves, the roles they are expected to play, and how their values and communication patterns may facilitate or interfere with the therapeutic process. Topics include: professional behaviors; values as determinants of behavior; personal and professional ethics; effective communication; group leadership and dynamics; teaching tools and strategies; advocacy and professional development.