1. (The Feeling Confident Stage)
The Competence Stage
(The Feeling Confident Stage)

2. Characteristics
Redefining Supervisory Relationships * easier to work with * open communication * less worry and anxiety * professional and personal insight * being able to discuss differences of opinion * mentoring relationship

3. Characteristics
Redefining Your Identity * practicum student to professional * becoming part of the staff * increased self-awareness (strengths and limitations) * good enough to excellence (not perfection) * sense of personal integrity (actions congruent with values)

4. Challenges During the Competence Stage
Avoiding challenges (too much focusing on the good feelings, “I shouldn’t have problems at this stage.”)
Not feeling successful even though others feel you are (the emotional experience of success or fulfillment) * doing worthwhile work (productive and responsible) * responsible relationships (genuine cooperative and mutually satisfying) * self-defined success

5. Transition Issues Leveling-off effect (a plateau)
Balancing life with practicum
Crisis management of time and workload (crunch time) * take time for self * prioritize and schedule

6. Developing Professional Awareness
Giving back to the practicum site
Developing an appreciation for what’s beyond textbook knowledge (intelligence and wisdom)
Developing professional behavior (clients, colleagues, community, advocating for profession i.e. professional memberships) * NAADAC * NOHS