At Grigore Counselling & Associates, we know that taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming—especially when trying to find the right therapist. That’s why we offer clients the opportunity to work with Master’s-level practicum students who are completing the final stage of their graduate training in counselling psychology or social work.
While some people may hesitate at the idea of seeing a student therapist, research and experience show that this can be a deeply valuable—and even preferable—option for many clients.
What Is a Master’s-Level Practicum Student?
A practicum student is in the final stages of a rigorous graduate program in counselling, clinical psychology, or social work. These students have completed substantial academic coursework and are now applying their knowledge in real–world clinical settings under direct supervision from seasoned, licensed therapists—including EMDRIA-Certified and Approved EMDR Consultants here at Grigore Counselling.
They receive ongoing supervision, case consultations, and clinical feedback—meaning every session is approached with a high level of care, review, and thoughtfulness. It’s almost like having two therapists for half the price of one.
Meet Our Practicum Therapists
🌿 Ryan Farnsworth
Ryan brings over 17 years of experience alongside first responders—including nurses and police officers—as they battle through trauma, substance use, and high–stress situations. He has also volunteered with the Crisis Centre for three years, offering compassionate support to individuals in acute crisis.
Now completing his practicum at Grigore Counselling & Associates in both the Langley and Richmond offices, and online across most of Canada, Ryan works with teens, adults, and couples to quiet the inner critic, reduce anxiety, and navigate life transitions with clarity and calm. His approach is warm, client-centered, and rooted in evidence-based modalities like ACT, CBT, trauma-focused therapy, and mindfulness. Ryan offers both in-person and virtual sessions and is supported by the clinical supervision of Founder and Clinical Director, Robert Grigore, MCP, RCC—ensuring thoughtful and layered care every step of the way.
🙃 Fun fact: Ryan spent most of his youth skiing on a small hill in the interior of BC where most of the runs are named after Beatles songs.
🌼 Tomilola Fadeyi
Tomi is a medical doctor (residency candidate) and final-year Master’s student in Counselling Psychology, offering a holistic, trauma–informed approach to healing. With over six years of experience in both clinical and community mental health settings—including leadership roles and hospital-based observerships—Tomi supports teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and cultural identity challenges.
Her work is rooted in empathy, evidence–based practices, and a deep understanding of how culture, community, and lived experience shape our mental health. She draws from ACT, CBT, person-centered therapy, family systems, and Christian Counselling to help clients reconnect with themselves and move forward with confidence. Tomi offers online therapy across seven provinces and territories, and in-person sessions at our Langley office, under the supervision of Robert Grigore, MCP, RCC.
🙃 Fun fact: Don’t let her height fool you—at just 5’1″ Tomi competed in basketball tournaments growing up!
The Top Benefits of Working with a Student Therapist
1. Evidence-Based, Fresh Perspectives
Master’s-level students are trained in the latest research-backed modalities and bring fresh insight, creativity, and attentiveness to every session.
2. Affordability Without Sacrificing Quality
Our practicum students offer reduced-fee sessions while receiving support from a licensed clinical supervisor—so you benefit from two minds for one cost.
“The reduced fee made it possible for me to finally start therapy. I felt truly listened to, and I could tell my therapist genuinely cared about my growth and healing.”
— Client testimonial
3. More Time and Attention
Student therapists often have smaller caseloads, giving them the time to prepare deeply and support you with greater attentiveness.
4. Supervision Enhances Clinical Quality
All practicum students at Grigore Counselling are supervised by EMDRIA-Approved Consultants and trauma specialists, ensuring ethical, high-quality care.
5. Strong Client Outcomes
📚 A 2012 study in the Journal of Counseling Psychology found that the therapeutic relationship was the strongest predictor of client success—regardless of therapist experience level.
(Wampold & Imel, 2015, The Great Psychotherapy Debate)
When Is Working With a Student Therapist a Great Fit?
Seeing a practicum student may be ideal if you:
✅ Are exploring therapy for the first time
✅ Want to work on anxiety, stress, depression, or trauma
✅ Are seeking a more affordable way to access consistent therapy
✅ Value warmth, empathy, and collaboration
✅ Want the benefit of two clinicians—student and supervisor
Stories from Clients Who Chose a Student Therapist
“I was surprised by how deeply my student therapist understood my trauma. They never rushed me and created a safe space that I hadn’t found in other therapy settings.”
— Former client, 2024
“The fact that my therapist was being supervised made me feel even more confident in the care I was receiving.”
— Client, 2023
Ready to Begin?
Our practicum therapists—like Ryan and Tomilola—are compassionate, capable, and ready to walk with you through your healing journey. If you’ve been thinking about therapy, this may be the most accessible and supportive place to start.
👉 Book your free 20-minute consultation today and let’s explore if working with one of our practicum students is right for you.
Your healing begins with one step—and we’re here to take it with you.
