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The FAQs section provides quick answers to common questions about the program, practicum, and other related topics. It’s a helpful resource to address any uncertainties you may have and guide you through the key aspects of the process.
Can I have more than one practicum site?
Yes, absolutely. Having more than one placement site can be a great advantage—it exposes you to a variety of clients, therapeutic approaches, and supervisory styles. This helps you develop a broader skill set and grow as a generalist.
For example, if you're seeing individual clients in a private practice, you might consider a second placement where you can co-facilitate group therapy or work with a different population.
Do I need to complete any trainings or workshops before starting my practicum?
No, additional trainings or workshops are not required before your practicum begins. However, you are encouraged to pursue learning opportunities that can enhance your knowledge and skill set.
These experiences can also help strengthen your CV and make you more competitive when applying for placements. Consider options like ASIST or Mental Health First Aid, or even free resources like one-hour webinars from PESI or NICABM. Every bit of learning counts—there’s no need to invest in expensive programs to make a meaningful impact.
How do I know if a practicum site is a "good fit"?
A good practicum site should align with your learning goals, offer appropriate supervision, and provide opportunities to develop core clinical competencies. Consider the types of clients serves, the therapeutic approaches used, and the structure of supervision and support.
It's also helpful to speak with current or former practicum students, if possible, and to trust your instincts during the interview process. If something doesn't feel right, it's okay to keep exploring other options.
The course starts in July but most practicum placements start in September. Do I have to start at my practicum placement in July?
No. The course will start in July but placements may begin in September. Please discuss any concerns about start dates with the Clinical Director.
Does the clinical supervision have to be provided by a supervisor working at the practicum site?
Does the clinical supervision have to be provided by a supervisor working at the practicum site?
No. Occasionally, especially in situations in which there is not a qualified supervisor available, practicum students may retain and, in some cases, pay for supervision from a qualified supervisor who is not involved in service delivery at the site (i.e. an Offsite/External Supervisor).
Can I count my current place of employment as contact hours?
Can I count my current place of employment as contact hours?
No. Issues related to dual relationships and boundaries render this not possible.
How do I count the supervision hours from practicum classes?
How do I count the supervision hours from practicum classes?
You do not log these hours in your monthly logs. Practicum classes provide 25 hours of group supervision. St. Stephen’s College will provide you with documentation stating you have completed the hours once you have successfully passed the practicum course.
Can I start seeing clients before the course starts?
Can I start seeing clients before the course starts?
No.
Can I start seeing clients before the first intensive of the practicum course?
Can I start seeing clients before the first intensive of the practicum course?
No.
Do I have to have ALL of my pre-practicum paperwork completed before I start seeing clients?
Do I have to have ALL of my pre-practicum paperwork completed before I start seeing clients?
Yes, you MUST have all paperwork completed prior to seeing clients.
Can I log time spent completing practicum course assignments or completing mandatory readings as indirect hours?
Can I log time spent completing practicum course assignments or completing mandatory readings as indirect hours?
No. These are an expectation for you to successfully complete the practicum course.
Can I change supervisors during my placement?
Can I change supervisors during my placement?
Yes, however, you are encouraged to have a conversation with the Clinical Director prior to you instigating a change of supervisors.
Will I be paid for my work during my practicum?
Will I be paid for my work during my practicum?
No. The student is not expected to be paid by their practicum site.
Can I do my practicum with my personal therapist if I discontinue seeing them?
Can I do my practicum with my personal therapist if I discontinue seeing them?
No. Students must not contract with their personal therapist for a practicum site or clinical supervision as there are dual role issues.
Can I see my Clinical Supervisor as my personal therapist?
Can I see my Clinical Supervisor as my personal therapist?
No. Students must not contract with their clinical supervisor for personal therapy as there are dual role issues.
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