Practicum Placement Opportunities at Valley Connections Counselling
Valley Connections Counselling is pleased to offer practicum placement opportunities for Master’s-level students pursuing graduate studies in counselling, psychotherapy, or related disciplines. We are currently accepting applications for 2025 and 2026.
About Valley Connections Counselling
Established in 2016 by Founder and Executive Director Amanda Youssef, Valley Connections Counselling is a well-respected mental health clinic located in Burlington, Ontario. True to its name, Valley Connections was created on the principle that human connection lies at the core of healing and psychological well-being. This foundational belief informs every aspect of our work—from clinical practice to student training.
Our Commitment to Training Emerging Clinicians
Since 2017, Valley has proudly supported the development of future mental health professionals through our practicum placement program. To date, we have hosted over 30 practicum students from a range of post-secondary institutions across Ontario and beyond.
Our practicum program is thoughtfully designed to provide a robust, supportive, and clinically sound training experience. Students are immersed in the practical and theoretical elements of psychotherapy while being guided through key professional competencies, including:
- Clinical documentation and case conceptualization
- Risk assessment and duty to report
- Therapist self-care and professional boundaries
- Ethical decision-making in clinical practice
- Building therapeutic alliances across diverse populations
In addition, Valley provides access to a growing library and a selection of complimentary virtual training in evidence-based modalities such as Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and others.
Supervision and Mentorship
Valley’s practicum students benefit from a well-structured supervision model that includes weekly dyadic sessions, along with access to at least one group supervision meeting per month. This approach provides a rich learning experience and exposure to diverse clinical perspectives. Valley is committed to cultivating a supportive team environment, and the clinical team meets virtually each week for Rounds. Practicum students are encouraged to attend these meetings to foster professional relationships and engage in peer case consultation.
Amanda Youssef, RP, CCC
Amanda is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Canadian Certified Counsellor through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). With over 15 years of clinical experience and more than 15,000 hours of direct client contact, Amanda has been providing clinical supervision since 2016 to both emerging and experienced clinicians.
Kiara Panetta, RP
Kiara is a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO) and an EMDR Certified Therapist (EMDRIA) with over 8 years of clinical experience. Since 2021, Kiara has led the Intern Program at Valley, providing direct supervision and mentorship to practicum students in alignment with academic program requirements and professional standards.
Facilities and Placement Logistics
Valley Connections Counselling operates out of a professionally designed clinical space in Burlington, Ontario, featuring four fully furnished offices that accommodate onsite student placements. We collaborate closely with academic institutions to ensure students meet all practicum requirements for their graduate programs.
Apply Now for January 2026
We are currently welcoming applications. To apply, please submit the following documents:
- Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter outlining your interest in Valley and relevant experience
Please email your application to: kiara@valleyconnectionscounselling.ca
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected candidates will be contacted for interviews beginning in Fall 2025.