Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Lab Practicum

Currently not accepting applications

Project Step Up: A Brief Intervention to Reduce Alcohol Consumption in Youth Exposed to Alcohol Prenatally

Program description: Practicum trainees in the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Lab, which is part of the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the UCLA Medical
School and Semel Institute, will receive clinical intervention research experience through participation in Project Step Up, a CDC-funded study designed to reduce alcohol consumption in 13-18 year olds with a history of prenatal alcohol exposure. Practicum trainees will assist with recruitment efforts, eligibility screenings, administration of study measures, and may have the opportunity to assist in co-leading evidence-based intervention groups involving adolescents and/or parents.

Current position openings: We currently have one position available for a 3rd year or higher level graduate student with relevant training in psychology or education. Hours are flexible, depending on study phase and applicant needs.

Resource allocation: The practicum trainee will be housed in Dr. O’Connor’s laboratory located at 78-256 of the Semel/NPI building on UCLA campus. Appropriate office equipment, including desk, phone, computer, and office supplies, is provided. Lab space is ample, and the presence of the practicum trainee will not impact existing staff.

Supervision: The practicum trainee will report primarily to the Project Coordinator, a clinical psychology postdoctoral fellow, for day to day assignments. Dr. O’Connor, a licensed psychologist, will provide supervision at weekly lab meetings, will be available for informal supervision when necessary, and will be on-call for consultation if an urgent situation arises. The practicum trainee evaluations will be completed by Dr. O’Connor and/or the Project Coordinator, if required. The Project Coordinator will provide the practicum trainee with appropriate orientation and training with all essential materials, including psychological assessment instruments, that is consistent with established testing standards.