Wild Souls Ranch is proud to partner with California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) Humboldt to provide practicum placement opportunities for undergraduate social work students. These placements give future social workers the opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on experience while serving children, families, and individuals in a supportive, community-based environment.

During their practicum, students work alongside experienced professionals to develop the knowledge and skills essential to effective social work practice. They gain exposure to client-centered care, trauma-informed approaches, interdisciplinary collaboration, case management, community engagement, and ethical decision-making while learning how nonprofit organizations support individuals and families across multiple systems of care.

At Wild Souls Ranch, practicum students become an important part of our team. Depending on their learning goals and academic requirements, students may:

· Observe and participate in client sessions under supervision.

· Assist with social skills groups and community activities.

· Support care coordination and resource navigation for families.

· Collaborate with behavior analysts, social workers, therapists, occupational therapists, and other service providers.

· Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.

Our goal is to provide a rich educational experience that bridges classroom learning with real-world practice. Students are encouraged to build confidence, strengthen clinical and interpersonal skills, and develop a deeper understanding of serving individuals with diverse needs.

Wild Souls Ranch believes that investing in the next generation of helping professionals strengthens our community. By mentoring future social workers, we help prepare compassionate, knowledgeable professionals who are equipped to make a lasting difference in the lives of those they serve.