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Practicum Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Clinical Training Director

Redding, CA · On-site

$79K - $108K/yr

Teach ongoing practicum classes for trainee management and career development 12. Speak in a few Jr. cohort courses including one in Term 1 to provide program expectations, consistency, and build ...

Pre Doctoral Trainee

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Must be enrolled in a practicum class through your respective University at the same time you are accruing trainee hours for graduation. * Friday mornings are required from 7-11 AM. Conditions of ...

Pre Doctoral Trainee

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$50K - $68K/yr

Must be enrolled in a practicum class through your respective University at the same time you are accruing trainee hours for graduation. * Friday mornings are required from 7-11 AM. Conditions of ...

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Practicum Trainee information

What's a practicum vs. internship?

A practicum is a supervised, hands-on training experience often required for academic programs, focusing on applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. An internship is a work placement that provides practical experience, typically for skill development and career exploration, and can be paid or unpaid. Both offer valuable industry exposure but differ in structure and purpose within a training program.

What do practicum students do?

Practicum students assist with real-world tasks related to their field of study, gaining hands-on experience under supervision. They may observe, support, and perform specific duties to develop skills, often working in environments like clinics, offices, or labs while adhering to safety and confidentiality standards.

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

To thrive as a Practicum Trainee, you typically need foundational knowledge in your specific field of study and active enrollment in a relevant academic program. Familiarity with standard office software, data entry tools, or specialized systems relevant to the industry may be required. Strong communication, adaptability, and eagerness to learn are crucial soft skills that help trainees make the most of experiential learning opportunities. These skills and qualifications are important because they enable trainees to effectively contribute, learn quickly, and transition smoothly into professional roles.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Practicum trainees and interns can be of any age, including 22, as internships are often designed for students or early-career individuals. Age is generally not a barrier; employers focus on skills, motivation, and relevant experience. Many organizations value diverse backgrounds and age groups in their internship programs.

What is the difference between Practicum Trainee vs Intern?

AspectPracticum TraineeIntern
Required CredentialsOften students or recent graduates, sometimes requiring specific courseworkTypically students or early career individuals, sometimes with minimal prerequisites
Work EnvironmentSupervised, educational setting within a company or organizationVaries from educational to professional settings, often part-time or temporary
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in healthcare, education, social services, and corporate trainingWidely used across industries including business, tech, healthcare, and non-profits

Both Practicum Trainee and Intern roles provide hands-on experience for students or early professionals. Practicum Trainees often focus on educational requirements and structured learning, while Interns may have more varied responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps candidates choose the right opportunity for their career development.

What are practicum trainees?

Practicum trainees are students or early-career professionals who participate in supervised, hands-on work experiences as part of their academic or professional training. These positions allow individuals to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, often within fields such as education, healthcare, psychology, or social work. Practicum trainees work under the guidance of experienced professionals, gain practical skills, and receive feedback to support their growth and future career success.

What kinds of support and mentorship can Practicum Trainees expect during their placement?

Practicum Trainees are typically paired with experienced supervisors or mentors who provide ongoing guidance, feedback, and support throughout the placement. Regular check-ins, observation opportunities, and structured evaluations help ensure that trainees are developing the necessary skills and competencies in a real-world setting. Additionally, trainees often participate in team meetings and collaborative projects, allowing them to learn from colleagues and build valuable professional relationships. This supportive environment is designed to help trainees gain confidence and transition smoothly into their chosen field.

Can I get paid for my practicum?

Practicum trainees are often unpaid, especially in educational or volunteer settings, but some programs offer stipends or hourly wages depending on the organization and location. Paid practicum opportunities are more common in certain industries or with specific funding, and they may require specific skills or certifications. It is important to check the specific practicum program's policies regarding compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Practicum jobs in California? The most popular types of Practicum jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Practicum Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Practicum Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Practicum Trainee job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Behavioral Health Clinical Trainee

Behavioral Health Clinical Trainee

A Better Way, Inc

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$1.0K/mo

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Internship
Description
Location: Fairfield
Reports To: Clinical Supervisor
Job Status: Internship
Work Model: Hybrid (Community-Based, In-Person, and Telehealth as required)
Date Revised: May 2025
Behavioral Health Clinical Trainee
At A Better Way, Inc., we are committed to supporting children, youth, and families involved in-or at risk of entering-the foster care and child welfare systems. Our programs provide trauma-informed, community-based mental health services that promote resilience, stability, and long-term well-being.
Role Summary:
Under the supervision of licensed clinicians (LCSWs and/or LMFTs), the Behavioral Health Clinical Trainee provides direct mental health services to children and youth (birth through age 21) and their families across multiple A Better Way programs. Trainees gain hands-on clinical experience, receive high-quality supervision, and develop professional competencies aligned with California BBS requirements, and best practices in community mental health including evidence-based practices (EBPs). Services may be delivered in home, school, office, community, or telehealth settings, depending on program needs and client circumstances.
Key Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of licensed clinicians (LCSWs and/or LMFTs), the Clinical Trainee provides direct mental health services to children, youth, and their families across A Better Way programs.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Provide direct clinical services in schools, homes, offices, community settings, and via telehealth to children (birth through age 21) and their families
  • Deliver psychotherapy, intensive care coordination, and crisis intervention through regularly scheduled sessions
  • Utilize a range of clinical modalities, including individual, dyadic, and family therapy
  • Understand and implement the Integrated Core Practice Model and collaborate with multidisciplinary partners, including schools, child welfare, and other service systems
  • Participate in Child and Family Team (CFT) meetings, IEP meetings, and other required collaborative forums
  • Complete required assessments (e.g., CANS, PSC-35, clinical assessments, Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale) to support diagnosis and treatment planning
  • Maintain timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation, including progress notes completed within required timelines.
  • Meet all contractual, programmatic, and agency documentation standards, including effective chart management
  • Attend all required meetings, including weekly individual and group supervision, in accordance with agency and practicum requirements
  • Adhere to all regulatory standards, ethical guidelines, mandated reporting laws, and agency policies
  • Participate in all required trainings during onboarding and throughout the internship year to maintain compliance and support professional development
  • Participate in competency and performance evaluations to support learning, growth, and role effectiveness
  • Meet all standards and expectations outlined in the practicum placement contract and the A Better Way personnel manual
  • Maintain all documentation required by the trainee's academic institution and the California Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS)
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled in an accredited Master's-level program in social work, counseling, or psychology
  • Strong clinical writing and documentation skills
  • Understanding of basic theoretical and developmental principles of children's mental health and family systems
  • Understand and desire to work with a strength-based mental health approach
  • Knowledge, understanding, and willingness to work with interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships
  • Strong desire to learn, take initiative, be curious and reflective, and be adaptable to change
  • Ability to work independently and as a member of the team
  • Strong organizational, communication, and computer skills
  • Some experience working with children or adolescents is required
  • Strong ability to engage and connect with children and their caregivers
  • Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, good driving record, and current auto insurance

Work Environment
The Clinical Trainee works in a combination of office, telehealth, and community-based settings. In-person attendance is typically required for client sessions unless alternate arrangements are approved. In-person attendance is generally required 2 days per week for supervision, staff meetings, and other job-related responsibilities. Remote work privileges vary by role and are subject to supervisor approval.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. The trainee regularly uses hands and fingers to handle objects and operate equipment, and frequently stands, talks, and hears. The trainee may be required to sit on the floor with children and must be able to bend, reach, lift, and move items weighing up to 15 pounds.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a part-time position. Practicum Placement determines days. Trainees are required to be onsite or available for 24 hours per week.
Travel
Travel is a routine part of the practicum within the agency's community-based model. During the work week, the intern may travel between service sites for sessions, meetings, and coordination of care.
Work Authorization/Security Clearance
Internship placement is contingent upon passing a background check and obtaining TB and health clearances. When applicable, driving records are periodically reviewed in accordance with company policy. Interns must comply with organizational vaccination requirements.
A Better Way is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Inclusive environments for all employees and applicants are our priority. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, neurodiversity, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, genetic information, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. This document may be subject to periodic review and revision in compliance with California labor and employment regulations.
Salary Description
$1,000 monthly stipend