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INTERNSHIP OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES

The Outpatient Therapy Internship at Alternative Wellness Services (AWS) is a temporary, unpaid opportunity designed for master ’s-level students to bridge academic learning with practical experience in mental health services. This internship focuses on hands-on learning, offering students the chance to work closely with licensed professionals to deliver individual and group counseling, clinical documentation, and therapeutic interventions.

Interns will gain exposure to all aspects of outpatient therapy, including conducting diagnostic assessments, creating treatment plans, and engaging in crisis intervention. Through structured supervision and mentorship, the program supports the development of essential clinical skills, emphasizing professionalism, ethical standards, and cultural competency. Interns will participate in individual and group supervision, receive ongoing feedback, and have access to professional development opportunities aimed at preparing them for a successful career in behavioral health.

This role is meant to align with the intern’s academic calendar and educational goals and includes integration into a multidisciplinary team, exposure to community resources, and training in trauma-informed care. The internship is strictly educational, with no expectation of compensation or a paid position upon completion.

PRIMARY LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct Client Work:

• Carry a small caseload of Outpatient clients, providing individual and group counseling under the guidance of a licensed clinician.
• Participate in and/or co-facilitate therapeutic groups, developing skills in group dynamics and therapeutic engagement.
• Engage in individual counseling and family work both in person and through telehealth platforms.
• Conduct intake interviews and brief assessments, completing required documentation.

Clinical Documentation and Assessment:

• Complete session notes, biopsychosocial assessments, and diagnostic assessments under supervision.
• Gain proficiency in AWS’s Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, ensuring compliance with agency standards.

Training in Assessment and Treatment Planning:

• Develop and refine skills in psychosocial assessment, crisis planning, and treatment planning, including formulating measurable goals and culturally informed interventions.
• Practice crisis intervention and learn to identify and manage risk factors in mental health care.

Collaborative and Independent Practice:

• Independently handle non-urgent client care responsibilities while escalating urgent concerns to supervisors.
• Maintain strong communication and collaboration with supervisors and staff.
• Co-creation of learning objectives and/or goals to satisfy requirements of the Intern’s learning contract.

Professional Development and Supervision:

• Participate in weekly individual supervision sessions and monthly group supervision meetings to reflect on experiences, receive feedback, and set learning goals.
• Attend biweekly staff meetings.
• Explore training and resources that enhance cultural awareness, trauma-informed care, and professional communication skills.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

At Alternative Wellness Services, we are committed to fostering the growth of our interns by providing a supportive and educational environment. This internship offers a unique opportunity to develop practical skills, deepen professional knowledge, and gain firsthand experience in the field of mental health services. Interns will benefit from structured supervision, collaborative team engagement, and exposure to diverse client needs, all designed to prepare them for a successful career in behavioral health.

Key opportunities include:

• Direct Client Work Experience: Gain practical skills in individual and group therapy, clinical documentation, and crisis intervention.
• Professional Development: Become familiar with AWS’s EHR system and participate in supervised clinical assessments, diagnostics, and treatment planning.
• Team Integration: Join a dynamic multidisciplinary team of social service providers, gaining exposure to community resources in Southern Maine.
• Ongoing Support and Mentorship: Receive individual and group supervision from licensed clinicians, supporting your growth as a future clinician.
• Learning Opportunities: Develop advocacy skills, participate in treatment planning, and enhance knowledge of community resources statewide.

SCHEDULE AND DURATION

Master’s level Social Work Interns are expected to commit to a minimum of 6 months, with a weekly commitment of at least 16 hours during regular weekday business hours. Flexible scheduling is offered to accommodate academic commitments; however, hours are restricted to AWS’s standard business hours, with no availability for nights or weekends.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The Outpatient Therapy Intern role can involve office-based tasks, including extended periods of sitting, typing, and conversing with clients and team members. Interns may be required to use a computer for documentation and research, requiring fine motor skills and regular screen time. Additionally:

• Typing and desk work for extended periods with appropriate breaks.
• Lifting and carrying materials or equipment weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Walking upstairs and standing intermittently as required by in-office meetings and client interactions.
• Occasional local travel for community engagement or client support may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Academic Requirement: Enrollment in a Master’s program in Social Work, Counseling, or a related field. Coursework in biopsychosocial assessment, clinical documentation, and crisis intervention is preferred.

Ability to Successfully Pass a Background Check: All interns must pass a comprehensive background check prior to starting their placement.

Certifications: Provisional MHRT/C certification (or the ability to obtain it) is required for conducting admission assessments. AWS will provide support in the certification process.

Preferred Experience: Completion of a biopsychosocial class and previous experience in the behavioral health field.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Basic understanding of counseling theories, the DSM, and therapeutic models such as CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches.
• Strong commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical standards, including adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics.
• Proficiency in electronic documentation, Google Workspace, and a willingness to learn AWS’s Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
• Demonstrates cultural awareness, self-reflection, and a nonjudgmental, empowering approach to client care.
• Ability to maintain strong boundaries and work independently.
• Ability to establish rapport and maintain therapeutic relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally, both in person, via HIPPA compliant video chat, and by telephone.
• Capacity for self-awareness and adaptability in various professional situations.