We Supervise Masters Level Student Interns!

The Nicole Docksteader Internship Program

June 15, 1990 - July 10, 2023

Nicole Photo

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


Brown Counselling and Therapy Services

Elisabeth Beach

I am registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and hold a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Ottawa.

I have extensive training and experience working with individuals experiencing challenges related to depressed and/or anxious moods, grief and loss, childhood trauma, chronic pain and health issues, and with couples and families facing relationship challenges. I draw on varied approaches including collaborative, systemic, experiential, and cognitive oriented approaches to therapy.

In my role as a Clinical Supervisor, I rely on both the developmental and psychotherapy models of clinical supervision. In the developmental model, the focus of our supervisory work is on the learning needs of the supervisee at their specific point in development. The psychotherapy model invites the opportunity for us to work together to learn techniques and interventions based on a specific therapeutic model, such as (but not limited to) CBT, Narrative, or EFT therapy.

My work with students and clinical interns is a collaborative process. We can explore ways to build strong therapeutic relationships, ensure the well-being and safety of those we work with, and support meaningful change in the lives of others.

As a therapist and a passionate learner, I am excited to share in your journey of professional development!

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.