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Counselor Internship Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Internship

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Substance Use Disorder Counseling provides Substance Use Disorder Services to clientele, including ... Interns will gain experience in case consultations, agency-wide trainings, and additional learning ...

Internship

Sioux City, IA

$14.75 - $19/hr

Substance Use Disorder Counseling provides Substance Use Disorder Services to clientele, including ... Interns will gain experience in case consultations, agency-wide trainings, and additional learning ...

Internship

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Substance Use Disorder Counseling provides Substance Use Disorder Services to clientele, including ... Interns will gain experience in case consultations, agency-wide trainings, and additional learning ...

Provides hands-on counsel to staff and management. Responsible for identifying and analyzing legal ... Mentors law clerks and interns. * Manages legal department staff responsible for charge off loan ...

New

Explore career opportunities in behavioral health, social work, counseling, and related fields. Job Duties - Responsibilities for this internship include: * Shadow residential recovery staff and ...

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Counselor Internship information

What is a counselor internship?

A counselor internship is typically a training position for students studying mental health, clinical psychology, or substance abuse therapy, or recent graduates of such programs. Graduate students who are preparing to enter into practice often need to complete an internship or fellowship as part of their educational requirements. As a counselor intern, your responsibilities include observing licensed practitioners during counseling sessions, learning diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to different mental health issues, and performing administrative duties, such as taking patient histories and completing insurance reimbursement and billing paperwork.

What is a counselor internship?

A counselor internship is a supervised practical experience for students or recent graduates pursuing a career in counseling. It allows interns to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, develop essential counseling skills, and gain exposure to various client populations. Typically, counselor internships are required as part of graduate programs in counseling and are necessary for licensure. Interns work under the supervision of licensed professionals who provide guidance and feedback throughout the process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a counselor intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Counselor Intern, you typically need foundational knowledge in psychology or counseling, often gained through enrollment in a relevant graduate program. Familiarity with documentation software, intake assessment tools, and adherence to ethical guidelines is important, and some programs may require progress toward state licensure. Strong active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective support and learning from supervised clinical experiences.

What types of supervision and mentorship can I expect during a counselor internship?

During a Counselor Internship, you will typically work under the close supervision of a licensed counselor or mental health professional. Supervision usually involves regular one-on-one meetings to review your cases, receive feedback, and discuss counseling techniques. Many organizations also offer group supervision or peer discussion sessions to encourage learning from different perspectives. This supportive structure helps interns build confidence, refine their skills, and ensure they are providing ethical and effective care to clients.

What is the difference between Counselor Internship vs Counseling Assistant?

AspectCounselor InternshipCounseling Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in psychology, social work, or related fieldOften holds a relevant degree or is in training, may require certification
Work EnvironmentInternships are usually in clinics, schools, or community centers, supervised by licensed counselorsAssist in administrative and client support tasks within counseling settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as training experience for future counselors, common in mental health and educational sectorsSupport role within counseling agencies, often part of staff training or volunteer programs

In summary, a Counselor Internship is a training position for individuals gaining practical experience in counseling, often with supervision, while a Counseling Assistant typically supports licensed professionals with administrative or client-related tasks. Both roles are essential in the counseling field but differ mainly in responsibilities and experience level.

How hard is it to get a counselor internship?

Securing a counselor internship typically requires relevant coursework, some experience in helping roles, and strong interpersonal skills. Competition can vary depending on the organization and location, but having certifications such as CPR or mental health training can improve chances. Internships often have specific application processes and may require interviews or references.

What do you do in a counselor internship?

A counselor internship involves assisting licensed counselors or mental health professionals by observing client sessions, supporting clients under supervision, and gaining practical experience in counseling techniques. Interns often participate in case discussions, develop communication skills, and may complete required training or certifications during the internship period.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Counselor Internship jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Counselor Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Counselor Internship job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 36% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 63% Remote job distribution.

$46K/yr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY: 

The City View Internship Coordinator is dedicated to supporting City View High School students through real-world, assets-based career exposure and community-connected learning. Operating with the unwavering belief that all students can achieve when given the right opportunities and support, this role bridges the gap between City View High School, local businesses, and community organizations. By combining student engagement, behavioral/attendance intervention, and hands-on work-based learning supervision, the Coordinator helps students build self-agency, explore career pathways, and graduate with a clear post-secondary plan.

COMPENSATION:

  • $46,000.00 annual entry salary
  • IPERS eligibility
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options
  • Illness leave and paid holidays 

ORGANIZATIONAL AND REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS: 

The Internship Coordinator will report directly to the Head of School with support from the Career and Technical Education Curriculum Lead and will have a working relationship with building staff, families, and community partners.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The essential functions as shown below represent the key areas of responsibility that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job.

  • Strategic Community Partnerships & Employer Outreach
    • Build and maintain a network of business, government, and non-profit partners to secure internships and job shadows.
    • Onboard and guide employer partners on host-site expectations and student support strategies.
    • Serve as the single point of contact for all off-campus placement logistics and partner communications.
  • Internal Staff Collaboration & Communication
    • Co-plan and align work-based experiences with classroom teachers, school counselor, and Career and Technical Education Curriculum lead to ensure integration with educational standards.
    • Establish clear, consistent communication channels with City View staff to track student performance, troubleshoot workplace challenges, and celebrate successes.
    • Participate as an active member of the City View High School team in regular staff planning, support meetings, and student intervention efforts.
  • Student Safety, Compliance & Site Audits
    • Enforce safety protocols, conduct pre-placement site audits, and ensure adherence to State of Iowa youth employment laws and OSHA standards.
    • Manage student liability forms, parent/guardian permissions, emergency contact protocols, and orientation prior to off-campus placements.
    • Conduct routine site visits for progress reporting from host.
  • Student Placement, Matching & Support
    • Collaborate with instructors and counselors to match students with internships aligned with their strengths and post-secondary goals.
    • Provide ongoing de-escalation, conflict resolution, and workplace etiquette coaching for students.
    • Coordinate with district staff to address transportation logistics for equitable student access.
  • Program Marketing & Employer Retention
    • Market new internship and work-based learning opportunities directly to City View students.
    • Promote student achievements and business partners through social media, news channels, and school marketing materials.
    • Maintain accurate tracking databases for employer records, student placements, and completion metrics.
  • Labor Market Alignment & Resource Development
    • Analyze local high-demand, high-wage (H3) labor market trends to align placements with regional career pathways.

Knowledge, Skills & Qualifications

  • Education & Licensure:
    • Bachelor's degree in human services, education, business, communication, marketing, social work, or a related field.
    • Valid Iowa Driver's License (clean driving record).
    • State of Iowa Work-Based Learning Supervisor Authorization (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
  • Experience:
    • Minimum 2 years in work-based learning, business outreach, youth development, education, or community engagement.
    • Preferred: Direct experience coordinating student internships/job shadows and collaborating directly with high school instructional teams.

OTHER DUTIES:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the team member for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.