Practicum Clinical Training Program
Gain the knowledge and tools to provide culturally competent, queer-affirming therapy to the LGBTQIA+ community
Queer LifeSpace’s goal is to create an environment that is inclusive, welcoming, and supportive of everyone in our community, so they can heal from the wounds of discrimination and learn to thrive. We are in the business of building resilience, and this begins with training the next generation of queer-affirming therapists. This lies at the heart of everything we do.
Our practicum training program begins in September, in line with the academic school year, and runs for 12 months. It requires a commitment of 16-20 clinical hours per week. The program gives students the knowledge and tools to provide culturally affirming psychotherapy to diverse members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Training also emphasizes developing an understanding of the therapist’s role in eliminating bias and discrimination within the queer community, as well as understanding the effects of discrimination and oppression in broader society.
“I felt very held in my training process and it was super helpful on a professional level.”
Our training program includes a weekly 2-hour didactic session, a weekly 2-hour group supervision, and weekly individual supervision. We provide experience in individual, couples, and group counseling. We also offer the opportunity to engage in community outreach and clinical research studies.
We want the experience of a group of people from different worlds and world-views coming together to create a conversation that is the beginning of a path to culturally sensitive and affirming awareness of the diverse needs of our community. To that end, we believe that peer-to-peer networking among therapists is an important part of the training experience and hold events that enable this.
We accept resumes in January and February of each year. Applicants can send a cover letter and resume to Chris Holleran, MFT, at cholleran@queerlifespace.org or call 415-358-2000 ext. 312.
“Being one of the first therapy Interns at Queer LifeSpace was a life-changing experience for me, no exaggeration. I got to be part of this dream team that was ready to grow and transform queer mental healthcare in San Francisco. Thank you so much! “”
“QLS offered a rich training experience. You get so many hours, which is super important. It’s a great site as a trainee. The didactics are focused and clear.”