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Practicum Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This practicum position is ideal for candidates who are committed to providing high-quality therapeutic care to a diverse population, including those presenting with moderate to severe clinical needs.

Clinical Trainee, Mental Health

Oakland, CA · On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

This practicum position is ideal for candidates who are committed to providing high-quality therapeutic care to a diverse population, including those presenting with moderate to severe clinical needs.

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Practicum information

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$21

$42

$75

How much do practicum jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for practicum in California is $42.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.22 and $47.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a practicum role, and why are they important?

To excel in a practicum position, candidates generally need foundational knowledge in their field of study, relevant coursework, and any prerequisite qualifications specified by their academic program. Familiarity with industry-standard tools, software, or laboratory equipment—depending on the discipline—is often required, along with adherence to any necessary safety or compliance certifications. Strong communication, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are crucial soft skills for building relationships and maximizing learning during the placement. These competencies are vital as they enable students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, gain practical experience, and prepare for professional careers.

What is the difference between Practicum vs Intern?

AspectPracticumIntern
CredentialsOften requires relevant coursework or trainingMay require coursework, but less formal
Work EnvironmentSupervised, educational setting, often part-timeVaries; can be part-time or full-time, in professional settings
PurposeTo gain practical experience and fulfill educational requirementsTo gain industry experience and explore career options
DurationTypically fixed, aligned with academic scheduleVaries; often seasonal or short-term

Practica are primarily educational experiences designed to complement coursework, often with academic supervision. Internships are more industry-focused, providing hands-on work experience, and may be paid or unpaid. Both roles help individuals develop skills, but practica are usually tied to academic programs, while internships are more directly industry-oriented.

What is a practicum?

A practicum is a structured, practical experience that allows students or trainees to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world professional setting. Practicums are common in fields such as education, social work, healthcare, and psychology, and are often a required part of academic programs. During a practicum, participants work under supervision, complete specific tasks or projects, and gain hands-on experience that prepares them for their future careers. The experience is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and professional practice.

What's a practicum vs. internship?

A practicum is a supervised, hands-on learning experience often required for academic programs, focusing on applying theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. An internship is a work placement that provides practical experience, typically for skill development and career exploration, and can be paid or unpaid. Both offer valuable industry exposure but differ in structure and purpose.

Can I get paid for my practicum?

Whether a practicum is paid depends on the organization and the specific program; some offer stipends or hourly wages, while others are unpaid internships. Paid practicum opportunities often require relevant skills and may include additional responsibilities or certifications. It is important to review the specific practicum's terms before applying.

What is a practicum job?

A practicum job is a supervised, hands-on training position often part of an educational program, allowing students or trainees to gain practical experience in their field. These roles typically involve applying classroom knowledge in real work environments and may require specific skills or certifications depending on the industry.

What types of projects or assignments can I expect to work on during a practicum, and how will these experiences prepare me for a full-time role in the field?

During a practicum, you can expect to work on hands-on projects or assignments that are directly related to your field of study, such as assisting with research, supporting client projects, or managing specific tasks under supervision. These experiences are designed to bridge academic learning with real-world application, allowing you to develop practical skills, gain industry insights, and build professional relationships. You'll often collaborate with team members and receive feedback from supervisors, which helps prepare you for the responsibilities and expectations of a full-time role after graduation.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Practicum internships are typically designed for students or early-career individuals, but age is not a strict barrier. Many employers value skills and motivation over age, and internships can be suitable for those seeking career change or additional experience regardless of being in their early twenties.
What are the most commonly searched types of Practicum jobs in California? The most popular types of Practicum jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Practicum jobs in California? For Practicum jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Practicum jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Practicum jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Practicum jobs? Cities in California with the most Practicum job openings:
Infographic showing various Practicum job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,386 per year, or $43 per hour.
Therapist Trainee - Internship/Practicum Student Opportunity (Unpaid)

Therapist Trainee - Internship/Practicum Student Opportunity (Unpaid)

First Steps Recovery

Shingle Springs, CA

$50K - $68K/yr

Other

Posted 19 hours ago


Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY 

Therapist Interns or Practicum Students are responsible for coordinating and providing individual, group therapy and biopsychosocial assessment services to clients as well as group, individual and family counseling for clients within the treatment facility. The intern or practicum student works with the treatment team to plan and coordinate the client's progress through the continuum of care. 

Reasonable Accommodations Statement 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Essential Functions: 

  • Uphold and enforce First Steps Recovery standards, policies and procedures, client rights, and professional code of ethics and conduct. 
  • Ability to utilize agency comprehensive assessment tools in KIPU (biopsychosocial, initial treatment plan, individual therapy notes, suicide risk assessment, PHQ9, GAD7, BAM, or other outcome measurements used. 
  • Identify and prioritize individual needs and problems of the client. 
  • Prepare comprehensive interpretive clinical summaries. 
  • Develop person-centered care plans, including prioritized problem lists, client-reported goals, measurable and achievable objectives, and interventions. 
  • Provide individual, group, and family therapy sessions utilizing evidence-based practices. 
  • Document client progress toward treatment plan goals and objectives weekly. 
  • Prepare effective care level step-down transition notes. 
  • Prepare clinical documentation accurately and within agency time frames. 
  • Intervene during crisis intervention situations. 
  • Cooperate with health insurance clinical utilization reviews by providing detailed clinical notes to assist with UR's. 
  • Participate in weekly clinical treatment team meetings. 
  • Participate in the agency's orientation training, staff meetings, and in-service training. 
  • Provide accurate assessment and referral when appropriate 
  • Provide appropriate treatment interventions relative to the specific needs of each client. 
  • Adhere to code of ethics, legal aspects of clinical practice, professional standards, duty to warn, abuse and neglect reporting policies and procedures, and exercise professionalism at all times. 
  • Exercise awareness in cultural competency, client satisfaction, quality of services, client needs, and overall health and safety staff and clients. 
  • Other duties and responsibilities as assigned. 
Requirements

Competencies: 

  • Ability to perform duties as a therapist with respect to screening, assessment, individualized treatment planning, crisis intervention, group and individual counseling, referral, discharge summaries, clinical documentation, and professional ethics. 
  • Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with fellow staff, supervisors, managed health care clinicians, medical and mental health professionals. 
  • Ability to positively interact and develop rapport with clients and their families. 

Requirements

Qualifications:

  •  Working toward Master's Degree in counseling or psychology from an accredited graduate school.


Experience:

  •  Preparing for or looking for practicum placement while in graduate school.


Skills:

  •  Documentation Skills
  •  Analyzing Information
  •  Decision Making
  •  Research Skills
  •  Verbal Communication
  •  Written Communication
  •  People Skills
  •  Resolving Conflict
  •  People Management
  •  Integrity


Certificates & Licenses:

  •  Valid Driver's License
  •  CPR/First AID


Other Requirements:

  •  Negative TB test results within past year
  •  Medical Clearance to work within past year
  •  Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug screenings


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Frequently: Occupation requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5 - 5.5+ hrs/day)

  •  Standing Walking
  •  Sitting
  •  Transverse Stairs
  •  Handling / Using Fingers

Occasionally: Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 - 2.5+ hrs./day)

  •  Reach Outward Reach Above Shoulder
  •  Squat or Kneel
  •  Bend or Twist 


Other Physical Demands:

  •  Ability to lift/carry 20-50 lbs., Ability to push/pull 20-50 lbs.
  •  Moderate frequency of computer keyboarding,
  •  Moderate frequency of viewing a computer monitor
  •  Daily cleaning including but not limited to: wiping, sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, scrubbing, washing dishes
  •  Assisting in meal preparation, installing water containers for consumption, and shopping as necessary including pushing of carts and carrying grocery boxes/bags.
  •  Conducting garbage disposal, recycling, and collection.
  •  Occasional walks, hikes, and sports outings with clients for physical activities.
  •  Frequent support of clients in gym environment


WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed during day and night shifts at the outpatient facility. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet in office settings and moderate in other situations.


BLOOD/FLUID EXPOSURE RISK:

Some job tasks involve exposure to blood, body fluids and/or tissue. Staff must wear gloves and follow infectious control procedures when interacting with clients in conditions in which exposure is possible such as handling onsite urinary analysis, conducting first aid, and conducting search of client's belonging and person. Staff may be exposed to infectious disease, needles, and illicit substances during searches.


Work Schedule:

The employee shall work a flexible schedule under the supervision of the clinical director.