Bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application

The Clinical Practicum at OPC College is one of the cornerstones of our psychotherapy and counselling program, providing students with hands-on, real-world experience in a supervised clinical setting.

This essential component of our curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring our students are well-prepared for professional practice.

The Clinical Practicum at OPC College is designed to equip our students with the confidence, competence, and professional readiness required for successful careers in psychotherapy and counselling. Through this immersive and supportive experience, students are prepared to make a meaningful impact in the lives of their clients and the broader community.

For more information about our Clinical Practicum, please contact our Practicum Coordinator

Clinical Practicum

Key Features of the Clinical Practicum

Supervised Clinical Experience

  • Direct Client Interaction: Students engage with clients under the close supervision of experienced, licensed professionals, gaining valuable insights and skills.
  • Diverse Clientele: Exposure to a wide range of client issues and demographics helps students develop a comprehensive understanding of different therapeutic needs and approaches.

Professional Development

  • Mentorship and Support: Experienced clinicians provide mentorship, offering guidance, feedback, and support throughout the practicum experience.
  • Ethical Practice: Emphasis on ethical standards and professional conduct, preparing students to navigate complex clinical situations with integrity.

Skill Building

  • Practical Skills Application: Students apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, enhancing their clinical skills in assessment, treatment planning, and intervention.
  • Specialized Techniques: Training in various therapeutic modalities and techniques, tailored to meet the needs of diverse client populations.

Reflective Practice

  • Case Studies and Reviews: Regular case reviews and discussions foster critical thinking and reflective practice, encouraging students to evaluate and refine their clinical approaches.
  • Personal Growth: Opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth, helping students understand their own therapeutic style and areas for improvement.

Comprehensive Evaluation

  • Continuous Assessment: Ongoing evaluation of student performance through direct observation, feedback sessions, and written assessments.
  • Competency Development: Focus on developing core competencies essential for effective clinical practice, including empathy, communication, and cultural competence.

Integrated Learning

  • Collaborative Environment: Collaboration with peers, faculty, and supervisors creates a supportive learning community that encourages knowledge sharing and professional growth.
  • Academic Integration: Integration of practicum experiences with academic coursework, reinforcing the connection between theory and practice.

Flexible Placements

  • Setting: Practicum placements are through private practice setting.
  • Location Options: Opportunities for clinical practice in different regions throughout Ontario through both in-person and virtual sessions accommodating student preferences and needs.

Our Robust Referral Network

At the Ontario Psychotherapy and Counselling College (OPCC), we pride ourselves on our extensive referral network, which connects individuals with a diverse range of therapeutic options. This robust network significantly benefits our students during their clinical practicum, providing them with invaluable real-world experience and diverse client interactions.

Visit the Referral Website

Student Benefits

Diverse Clientele

  • Wide Range of Cases: Our referral network ensures that student therapists are exposed to a variety of cases, enhancing their learning experience and clinical skills.
  • Cultural Competence: Interaction with clients from diverse backgrounds helps students develop cultural competence and adaptability in their therapeutic approaches.

High-Quality Supervision

  • Experienced Practitioners: Student therapists work under the close supervision of seasoned professionals, receiving guidance and feedback that is crucial for their professional development.
  • Real-Time Support: Supervisors provide real-time support and mentorship, ensuring that students feel confident and supported in their clinical decisions.

Accessible Services

  • Affordable Care: Students offer high-quality, low-cost psychotherapy services, making mental health care accessible to a broader population while gaining practical experience.
  • Community Impact: By providing affordable services, students contribute positively to the community, making a tangible difference in the lives of those they serve.

Comprehensive Training

  • Specialized Skills: Through our referral network, students have the opportunity to work with clients needing various therapeutic interventions, enhancing their range of skills and techniques.
  • Professional Readiness: The diverse and intensive practicum experience prepares students for professional practice, equipping them with the confidence and competence needed for their future careers.

Clinical Practicum

Our network connects individuals with skilled psychotherapists across various regions, including:

  • Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area
  • Barrie, Northumberland
  • Peterborough
  • Ottawa
  • St. Catharines
  • Niagara
  • London
  • and beyond throughout Ontario

This widespread reach ensures that students have access to a broad spectrum of clinical environments and client needs, enriching their educational journey.

At OPCC, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible training through our robust referral network, ultimately fostering their growth into skilled, compassionate, and effective therapists.