Describes three organizational models for staffing--rational, political, and standards--typically seen in mental health programs. Examines who is hired and why in terms of the characteristics of each model. Provides a summary of decision guidelines for staffing and suggestions for formulating a staffing strategy. (Author/ABB)

A staffing model for client assignment to graduate-level counselor trainees in the Counseling Practicum Clinic of the Department of Counseling Psychology at Ball State University is presented. Staffing and assignment procedures for this clinic which serves approximately 300 non-student clients and 50-60 counselor trainees each quarter, are…