Pre-Practicum Timeline

Ensure these tasks are completed at least 12 months before starting your practicum:

• Review all sections of the Practicum Hub: This includes the FAQ and Supervisor Information found in the Supervisor Section.

• Understand practicum requirements: Familiarize yourself with the necessary practicum components, such as eligible sites, required activities, and total hours needed. Additionally, review the qualifications your site supervisor must meet. If you have any questions, reach out to the Clinical Director.

• Research your provincial regulatory body or professional association: If one is not available, refer to the national association website to understand the regulations and requirements for completing your practicum as part of your MPS. Downloading the registration application for your provincial or national regulatory body may also be useful.

• Read the Practicum Manual for Students: This guide, available on the Practicum Hub, provides comprehensive details about the practicum process.

• Join a Professional Organization: Consider becoming a student member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). This membership provides access to conferences, newsletters, committees, and networking opportunities with students and professionals, which can be valuable when searching for a practicum site and for overall career development.

• Update your CV and Letter of Intent: When applying for counselling practicum placements, it’s important to update your CV and letter of intent to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and professional goals. Your CV should showcase your education, training, and any volunteer or work experience related to counseling. Your letter of intent should express your passion for the field, explain why you’re interested in the site, and demonstrate how your skills align with their services. A well-prepared application helps make a strong first impression and increases your chances of securing a great placement.

• Start Researching Practicum Sites:

  • Create a list of potential practicum sites in your area.

  • Begin reaching out to these sites to inquire about practicum opportunities and anticipated openings.

  • Identify agencies that require St. Stephen's College to apply on your behalf and note their application deadlines.

  • Customize a cover letter for each site and provide them with a copy of the Practicum Manual.

• Understand the Practicum Commitment:

  • Plan for approximately two -three days per week dedicated to practicum to fulfill your required hours.

  • Consider how this fits with your work and personal responsibilities.

  • Be prepared for PPSYC 5870/5878, which includes three 2-day online intensives, monthly meetings with your peers, and all course assignments.

• Engage with Practicum Sites:

• • Contact sites you are interested in and discuss their practicum placement process.

  • Understand the steps required to apply.

• Verify Site Supervisor Qualifications:

  • If you receive a practicum offer, confirm that the site supervisor meets St. Stephen's College's supervision requirements.

• Attend the Practicum Prep Seminar

• Review necessary documentation and submit secured placements to the Clinical Director

• Register in PPSYC 5870/5878 if you haven't already

• Confirm the date you will start at your practicum site(s)

• Submit all required paperwork to the Clinical Director