Overall Competencies & Learning Outcomes

By the end of successful completion of the program, graduates will be expected to have integrated the theory and practice required for entry to practice as a psychotherapist and counselor. The learning outcomes and objectives of OPC are leveled throughout the program using a variety of learning modalities and strategies to develop those competencies.

Skills for learning, reading, researching, studying, critical thinking, writing and ongoing professional development

To develop learning and study skills related to the professional practice of psychotherapy and counseling including reading, researching, studying, critical thinking, writing and creating and engaging in ongoing professional development plans.

Communication, counseling and interpersonal skills for establishing and maintaining professional and therapeutic communications, processes and relationships

To develop and integrate the theory, skills and application of professional and therapeutic communications and interpersonal skills related to establishing and maintaining effective relationships with individuals, families, groups and other professionals.

Collegial and collaborative relationship competencies

To build and maintain effective collegial relationships in the learning community and in the wider interprofessional community.

Self-care skills and competencies

To be aware of self-care needs and strategies to maintain self-care in relation to professional role and be able to implement self-care approaches in your own life.

Professional ethics and competencies

To develop and integrate professional ethics, frameworks and skills into professional practice and ethical decision making and to comply with legal and organizational requirements.

Cultural sensitivity and cultural competence to deal respectfully with diverse clients and issues

To be able to demonstrate and apply knowledge, theories, practices and skills of cultural sensitivity, inclusion and cultural competence and be aware of your own values, beliefs and biases.

Skills and competencies in specific theories, modalities frameworks and approaches to inform practice

To be able to understand several therapeutic modalities, frameworks and strategies that can be used in psychotherapy and counseling and be able to apply several effectively in practice.

Skills and competencies in evaluation and research

To develop an understanding of research and evaluation to be able to review, evaluate, critique and apply research in the areas of psychotherapy and counseling practice.

Skills and competencies in establishing and maintaining a clinical practice.

To develop and integrate clinical practice skills by being able to establish and maintain an effective and ethical psychotherapy and counseling practice and to manage client relationships, risk assessment, process, and records.

NOTE: OPC competencies are designed to align with the competencies required for registration as a psychotherapist. Students will be required to be aware of working towards complying with all the competencies set forth by the CRPO and Professional Associations.

The OPC program is divided into 5 main Subject Areas, with 5 Learning Modules attached to each area that typically take place over 5 years of study. They provide complementary learning for each other.