We Supervise Masters Level Student Interns!

The Nicole Docksteader Internship Program

June 15, 1990 - July 10, 2023

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Our internship program is dedicated to the loving memory of Nicole Docksteader, a remarkable individual whose life was dedicated to helping others. As the first ever associate at Brown Counselling, Nicole was a beacon of compassion and empathy, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those fortunate enough to have crossed her path.
 
Despite being a new graduate at the time, Nicole embodied the essence of empathy, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their innermost thoughts and emotions. She possessed an innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life on a profound level, demonstrating genuine care and understanding for each individual's unique journey.
 
Nicole's approach to psychotherapy was characterized by a rare combination of wisdom, warmth, and humility. She had a gift for active listening, making clients feel heard and validated. Compassion was Nicole's guiding principle, and clients often spoke of her as a source of strength during their darkest moments.
 
These qualities that Nicole possessed and demonstrated so well during her time with us are what we are looking for in our clinical interns. Her client-centered approach is what we aspire to instill in our students through the provision of knowledgeable and supportive supervision. It is our hope that through this internship program, we will continue to celebrate and honour Nicole's life through the training and development of other like-minded psychotherapists.

Meet Your Supervisor


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Jaime Sharma

I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and hold a Masters Degree in Counselling from the University of Ottawa.
 
I have a background in working with individuals experiencing a variety of issues in their lives such as anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, work-related issues and individuals experiencing crisis. I use an individualized approach to psychotherapy, drawing on various therapeutic models or approaches such as (but not limited to) CBT, ACT, EFT and Brainspotting.
 
In my work with students and interns, my goal is to provide constructive feedback, to foster a positive learning environment and promote ethical and evidence-based practices. I am dedicated to helping supervisees enhance their clinical skills and achieve their professional goals.
 
I look forwarding to supporting you in your learning and development!

Meet Your Peer Support Leader

Brianna Bruyere

I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.

With experience working with individuals and couples, I have supported clients facing a range of challenges, including anxiety, anger, substance use, relationship issues, complex trauma, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from an attachment-based framework and incorporating techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

As a supervisor, I strive to empower you with the guidance, tools, and support you need to succeed. I take a compassionate, empathetic approach to supervision, with a bit of humour thrown in, to create an environment where you can grow personally and professionally.

Using an attachment-based framework, I offer valuable insights into emotional and behavioural patterns that can enhance your understanding and approach. I aim to cultivate a safe, trusting space where you can explore these patterns, reflect on your experiences, and foster personal and professional growth throughout your internship.

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Brown Counselling and Therapy Services is happy to contribute to the development and training of future therapists. We offer student internship placements to students completing their Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology (or equivalent). The start dates for student practicums are January, May, and September. Please note, our student interns do see clients in-person at our office in Orleans. We are unfortunately not able to offer a virtual/ remote internship.

What we offer:

  • One hour per week of supervision with one of our Registered Psychotherapists that meets the supervision requirements for both your school placement, as well as the CRPO
  • 2-3 additional hours per month of peer intern support led by one of our associates
  • Two additional hours per month of group supervision led by a Registered Psychotherapist
  • The ability to utilize and learn the therapeutic modalities that you are interested in, while maintaining client-centred care
  • Office space for three shifts per week
  • A caseload of approximately 10-12 clients per week
  • Access to a secure, easy to use online booking and filing system
  • Administrative support
  • A collaborative team environment

Our ideal interns:

  • Love people, and are passionate about providing therapy
  • Are willing and able to provide more than the minimum requirements for their degree to contribute to the team and help support our busy practice
  • Will ask for help when they need it, and are passionate about learning
  • Are confident in their role as a helping professional
  • Have a thorough knowledge of, and abide by, all of the ethical standards and guidelines for providing therapy
  • Have strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Are able to see clients in-person at our office in Orleans, as well as virtually when needed
  • Are client-centred, and tailor their approaches to meet the needs of their clients

If you are a student seeking a practicum placement and think you would be a good fit for our team, please send your cover letter and resumé to [email protected], and indicate what start date you are looking for.