Nashville-based provider, university create practicum opportunity for counseling students

Interns from Nashville, Tenn.-based Lipscomb University will have an opportunity to be exposed to a range of treatment settings operated by the Cumberland Heights addiction treatment facility, under a partnership agreement announced this week.

Students pursuing a master of science degree in the clinical mental health counseling track at the university will be able to choose from Cumberland Heights residential and intensive outpatient programs serving adults, young adults and adolescents for their practicum work.

“This program can provide Cumberland Heights and the larger field in general with qualified addictions counselors during a time when that specialized workforce is facing a critical shortage,” Nashville-based Cumberland Heights chief clinical officer Cinde Freeman said in a news release.

Added Melanie Morris, an assistant professor in graduate counseling at Lipscomb, “While pursuing this degree, students will learn about treating addiction through an addictions lens and a mental health lens, creating a unique perspective and marketable skills. This degree will also complete the academic requirements to allow students to pursue two licenses in Tennessee: licensed professional counselor with mental health service provider designation and licensed alcohol and drug abuse counselor.”