Description
Responsibilities
The
Clinical Intern works under the supervision of licensed/certified healthcare professionals to develop clinical skills, apply academic knowledge to the workplace, and prepare to be independently work-ready clinical practitioner. The internship provides practical experience in assessment, case conceptualization, treatment planning, documentation, and professional practice within a behavioral healthcare setting, preparing the practitioner to be work-force ready.
Key Responsibilities
- Observe, then participate, and facilitate client evaluations and assessments.
- Assist with client care activities under supervision.
- Document patient interactions, treatment plans, and progress notes according to organizational policies.
- Maintain accurate and confidential patient records, meeting agency standards for client privacy and HIPAA rules and regulations.
- Communicate professionally with clients, families, and other team members.
- Attend clinical meetings, case conferences, and training sessions.
- Follow all safety, ethical, and regulatory guidelines.
- Participate in quality improvement and client education activities as assigned.
- Other opportunities may arise over the course of internship and will be discussed on a case-by-case basis. (Ex. Some interns would like to participate in the Teen Mental Health First Aid initiative each Fall)
Requirements
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited behavioral healthcare-related program
- Basic knowledge of clinical procedures
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Willingness to learn, a coachable spirit
- Pro-active and engaged approach related to clinical supervision
- Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and professionalism
- Proficiency with electronic health records (EHR) systems is a plus
- Current CPR/BLS certification may be required depending on the setting
Preferred Skills:
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities
- Attention to detail and accurate documentation skills according to standards and coaching provided by the program
- Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Ability to exercise compassion, empathy, and self-awareness when interacting with clients
Potential Work Environment(s):
- Dubuque Behavioral Health Services Center (DBHSC)
- Satellite Mental Health Center(s) (MHCs)
- A New Day Walk-in Clinic (AND)
- Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)
- Addictions Recovery Services (ARS)
Learning Objectives
- Develop clinical assessment and intervention skills
- Gain experience with client documentation and treatment planning
- Understand behavioral healthcare regulations and ethical standards
- Build professional communication and teamwork competencies
- Prepare for professional temporary licensure, certification, or future employment
- Determine which modalities require additional training and education to begin the post-graduate work developing an emerging practitioner's first area of expertise or niche in practice