Abstract
Experiences with an ongoing clinical practicum in mental health and aging that has operated for the last eight years are used to develop a training curriculum for mental health counseling in gerontology. The practicum model accommodates both master's‐level gerontology students and doctoral students in clinical psychology. It includes (1) academic preparation and clinical values, (2) assessment skills, (3) beginning counseling techniques, (4) advanced counseling skills, and (5) administrative competence. Supervision, the placement process, and procedural issues surrounding practica are also presented.