Student Placements at The Gatehouse

At The Gatehouse, we value the opportunity to work with student placements, providing a supportive and enriching environment where future professionals can grow and contribute to our mission. Our organization is a leader in supporting individuals affected by childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and focuses on creating safe spaces for healing, education, and empowerment. All student practicums are unpaid. All successful applicants must submit a vulnerable sector check. 

Why Choose The Gatehouse for Your Placement?

  1. Hands-On Experience:
    Students engage in meaningful work, supporting our programs, intake processes, and community outreach initiatives. This includes assisting with client support, tracking program outcomes, and ensuring smooth program delivery.
  2. Learning Opportunities:
    Placements at The Gatehouse allow students to develop skills in trauma-informed care, group facilitation, and administrative functions within a nonprofit setting. Students are mentored by experienced professionals, including psychotherapists and program coordinators, and gain valuable insights into the complex needs of CSA survivors.
  3. Building Professional Networks:
    The Gatehouse is well-connected within the nonprofit and mental health communities. Students have opportunities to collaborate with experienced staff, volunteers, and other community organizations.
  4. Personal Growth:
    Supporting CSA survivors in their healing journey is a deeply meaningful experience that fosters empathy, resilience, and a greater understanding of the power of community-based care.

Placement Opportunities

We welcome students from various disciplines, including:

  • Social Work
  • Psychology
  • Counselling
  • Community Services/Social Service Work
  • Criminal Justice/Justice Studies
  • Fundraising/Event Planning
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Other related fields

Responsibilities of Student Placements

  • Program Assistance: Helping with intakes, group session preparation, and supporting facilitators.
  • Client Support: Acting as a liaison for clients, providing information, and ensuring their needs are addressed.
  • Administrative Duties: Maintaining accurate program statistics, assisting with reports, and supporting communication efforts.
  • Creative Contributions: Helping with fundraising campaigns, social media content, and community engagement initiatives.
 

Required Skills

  • Strong communication (oral and written).
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, social media platforms, and video editing.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Organizational and time management skills.

Our Commitment to Students

At The Gatehouse, we ensure that students receive ongoing supervision, clear expectations, and constructive feedback throughout their placement. We aim to create an environment that encourages learning, innovation, and a sense of purpose in addressing the needs of CSA survivors.

How to Apply

If you’re interested in a placement at The Gatehouse, please email Jasmine Lem, Program Coordinator, and submit your cover letter and resume. Please indicate in your cover letter your school program name, the total number of placement hours required to complete, and number of semesters required. 

Placements are typically arranged in collaboration with academic institutions and require a formal agreement.

Counselling/Psychotherapy Graduate Student PracticumsYou will require a CRPO qualified external supervisor to complete the practicum at the Gatehouse. There may be additional costs associated with this process. The Gatehouse does not cover these costs. 

By choosing The Gatehouse for your placement, you’ll not only advance your career but also make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Join us in our mission to inspire hope and foster healing.

"It was an amazing experience to be at a place that encourages your professional as well as personal growth."