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Social Work Internship Jobs in McLean, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Social Work Internship information

See McLean, VA salary details

$5

$16

$25

How much do social work internship jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for social work internship in McLean, VA is $16.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Social Work Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Social Work Intern, you need foundational knowledge of social work principles, case management, and community resources, typically gained through enrollment in an accredited social work program. Familiarity with documentation software, client management systems, and basic counseling techniques is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and active listening help interns build trust with clients and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These skills and qualities are crucial to providing compassionate, ethical, and effective support to individuals and communities in need.

What types of supervision and support can I expect during a Social Work Internship?

During a Social Work Internship, you can typically expect regular supervision from a licensed social worker who will guide your case management, clinical practice, and ethical decision-making. Weekly supervision meetings are common, providing opportunities for feedback, questions, and professional development. Additionally, you'll often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including case managers, counselors, and healthcare professionals, allowing you to observe different approaches and expand your network. This supportive environment is designed to help you develop practical skills, build confidence, and prepare for a professional social work career.

What is a social work internship?

A social work internship is a supervised, practical learning experience for students pursuing a degree in social work. Interns work in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, or community organizations, to apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations. The internship helps students develop essential skills, understand professional ethics, and gain exposure to different populations and issues. It is typically a requirement for earning a social work degree and prepares students for a career in the field.

What is the difference between Social Work Internship vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Work InternshipSocial Worker
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of social work programs; may require student statusLicensed or certified with relevant state licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship settings such as clinics, community centers, or hospitals, supervised by licensed professionalsFull professional roles in similar settings, with independent responsibilities
Employer & IndustryNon-profit organizations, government agencies, healthcare facilitiesSame as internships, but with full responsibilities and autonomy

In summary, a Social Work Internship is a supervised training position for students or recent graduates, focusing on gaining practical experience. A Social Worker is a licensed professional providing ongoing client services and case management. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed social worker.

What cities near McLean, VA are hiring for Social Work Internship jobs? Cities near McLean, VA with the most Social Work Internship job openings:
Internship 2026-2027 Bachelors Social Work Fieldwork

Internship 2026-2027 Bachelors Social Work Fieldwork

Sheppard Pratt

Lanham, MD • On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago


Sheppard Pratt rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

628th of 864 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Opportunity Summary:

Location: School Based Services- Prince Georges County

BSW students will support supervising social workers meeting the material and emotional needs of clients. Students will learn how to conduct a social needs assessment, assist in developing a service plan, and support clients in finding the resources they need in the community. Students will acquire individual and group counseling skills and learn how to address mental health and socio-economic crises.

Opportunity timeframe:

Interns generally work 15-20 hours per week. Each supervisor will work with interns on their schedule and meeting their fieldwork requirements specified by their universities.

Eligibility requirements:

The student must be enrolled in an approved BSW program. We may consider other Bachelor's Level Human Services programs with a clinical internship requirement.

Learning Model:

Sheppard Pratt offers a variety of formal lectures in its world famous continuing education program and program level trainings. Interns will also receive individual and group supervision to support their professional development.

Student Expectations:

Students will be prepared to be bachelor's level social workers and be trained in managing a variety of client needs using best practices.

Student Tasks:

Students will learn primarily case work and case management techniques, but they will also learn basic counseling skills and to recognize different childhood and adolescent mental health conditions.


What Sheppard Pratt employees say

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About Sheppard Pratt

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sheppard Pratt is the nation's largest private, nonprofit provider of mental health, substance use, special education, developmental disability, and social services. We serve over 70,000 people every year and have over 160 programs in 16 counties throughout the State of Maryland. Our mission is to improve the quality of life of individuals and families by compassionately serving their mental health, addiction, special education, and community support needs. U.S. News & World Report has ranked Sheppard Pratt as one of the top psychiatric hospitals in the nation for the past thirty years. ! Sheppard Pratt is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and diverse environment for employees and patients, and recently earned the "LGBTQ Health Care Equality Top Performer" designation from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Sheppard Pratt currently has 5,000 employees, and we are always looking to add compassionate and caring members to our team. If you are someone who is interested in behavioral health, psychology, education, nursing, or social work, Sheppard Pratt is the right fit for you."

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Baltimore, MD, US

Year founded

1853