Internship Structure and Core Requirements
The internship program is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation for your professional journey. It spans one full academic semester and requires a minimum of 600 total hours to ensure a deep immersion in clinical practice. Within these hours, you will dedicate at least 240 hours to direct client contact, allowing you to build meaningful therapeutic relationships.
You will have the opportunity to work with a highly diverse client base. Our interns service individuals from various backgrounds, including different ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religions, and socio-economic statuses. This exposure is vital for developing cultural competency and a nuanced understanding of the human experience.
Clinical Experience and Professional Growth
Our program emphasizes hands-on learning through a variety of clinical activities. You will gain experience in direct client counseling by providing both individual and group therapy sessions under expert supervision. Additionally, you will lead the way in assessment and treatment planning, where you will learn to use evidence-based tools to inform client care.
Beyond direct therapy, you will engage in:
- Crisis Intervention: Learning strategies to handle acute client issues effectively and safely.
- Research and Advocacy: Participating in research projects and outreach programs that promote social justice and community well-being.
- Case Management: Coordinating with other professionals and agencies to provide holistic support.
- Professional Workshops: Attending sessions on ethical considerations, new methodologies, and counseling technologies.
Supervision, Evaluation, and Admission
To ensure your success, we provide a robust support system focused on your personal and professional development. You will participate in weekly individual or triadic supervision with qualified professionals, as well as group supervision sessions led by our clinical staff. This collaborative environment fosters continuous learning and case consultation.
Your progress is monitored through mid-term and final evaluations based on CACREP competencies, including your counseling skills and professional disposition. To join this program, applicants must be currently enrolled in a CACREP accredited program and have completed their foundational coursework. The selection process involves a thorough review of your academic records, recommendation letters, and a personal statement, followed by a comprehensive interview.
A Note for Applicants: This internship is more than a requirement for graduation. It is a transformative space where you transition from a student to a skilled practitioner, backed by a team dedicated to your growth.