A counselling practicum is a supervised, hands-on training experience where counselling students apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings. It is a crucial part of their education, allowing them to develop clinical skills, build confidence, and gain direct experience working with clients.

During their practicum, students work under the supervision of experienced professionals, providing counseling services while receiving guidance and feedback. This placement helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that students are well-prepared for professional roles in mental health, school, or community settings.

Completing a practicum is essential for students to meet program requirements, fulfill licensure or certification criteria, and gain practical skills necessary for a successful career in counselling.

Every student in the MPS program must successfully complete the practicum course (PPSYC 5870 or PPSYC 5878). This course is a requirement for program completion and graduation.

The course combines intensive online two-day seminars, supervised clinical practicum placements (in diverse placement sites), and monthly online groups over a one-year period. The Clinical Director and an instructor who is a Registered Canadian Art Therapist (RCAT) facilitate these groups.

Students complete a variety of assignments designed to integrate theory with practice and foster professional growth. These assignments help bridge classroom learning with real-world clinical experience, providing a structured pathway for students to develop their professional identity as clinicians.

Please check the St. Stephen's College Academic Calendar for information on PPSYC 5870/5878.

Attending the Practicum Prep Seminar and reviewing the Practicum Manual will also provide you with more in-depth information on the course and it's learning outcomes.

Students must complete the following pre-requisites to be eligible to register for the practicum course:

MPS

• Seminar: Practicum Prep

• PPSYC 581: Introduction to Psychotherapy and Spirituality

• PPSYC 583: Professional Ethics for Psychotherapy and Spiritual Care

• PPSYC 584: Theories of Counselling and Psychotherapy

• PPSYC 585: Basic Psychotherapy Skills 

MPS-AT

• Seminar: Practicum Prep

• PPSYC 581: Introduction to Psychotherapy and Spirituality

• PPSYC 583: Professional Ethics for Psychotherapy and Spiritual Care

• PPSYC 5841: Introduction to Art Therapy: Theories of Counselling and Historical Foundations

• PPSYC 585: Basic Psychotherapy Skills

Students are expected to complete 660 total hours during their practicum. The breakdown is below:

300 Direct Client Hours

300 Indirect Hours

60 Supervision Hours

• Note that students will receive 25 hours of supervision upon the successful completion of the course

• Students will need to acquire a minimum of 35 hours of supervision through their Clinical Supervisor(s)

  • AT students need to ensure that 5 hours (out of the above mention 35 hours) are completed under the supervision of a Registered Canadian Art Therapist

This timeline offers a step-by-step guide to the process you should follow as you prepare for your Practicum. By following these steps, you ensure the best possible outcome in securing your Practicum site and performing successfully during your placement.

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Selecting a practicum site requires thoughtful consideration. The process of securing a practicum can be competitive, as many qualified students from other counselling programs are also seeking placements. You may not always receive your first choice.

Ultimately, your placement will depend on various factors, including your clinical, academic, career, and volunteer experience, as well as your life experiences. How you present yourself and demonstrate enthusiasm to potential sites also plays a role. A practicum is a valuable learning opportunity that can significantly impact your career. Therefore, it's essential to choose your site carefully and with intention.

As you begin exploring your practicum options consider the following questions:

• What client populations are you interested in working with?

• In what areas would you like to strengthen your counselling skills?

• What do you want to learn?

• Are there constraints due to time and location?

• Is there a particular professional you want supervision from?

The following tips are provided to help you locate potential sites:

• Take the time to research different service providers in your area and identify which ones align with your clinical interests. Consider where the population you want to work with typically seeks counselling services. 

• Reach out to agencies well before your planned practicum start date to gather information about the services they offer. 

• Utilize the resources around you by consulting faculty, classmates, friends, and colleagues for tips and suggestions on where to apply. You may be surprised by what is available in your community. Stay persistent and keep asking!

• Start networking with professionals in your community. Inquire about the services they offer, their needs, and how you could contribute. Request an informational meeting with a supervisor or staff member. 

• Make sure that any practicum you consider meets the criteria of the registration body you'll apply to. 

•  Think creatively and explore unconventional options when searching for a practicum. 

• Don’t hesitate to ask for help and reach out to others. 

• Keep your expectations realistic and take practical factors into account. 

• Most importantly, stay positive and proactive in your search—you will find a practicum site!

Frequently Asked Questions from students preparing for their practicum.

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