Job Title: Graduate School Intern (Licensed Professional Counselor Track)
Location: Alaska
Reports to: Clinical Director/Supervising Licensed Professional Counselor
Job Type: Internship
Practice Type: Private Counseling Practice
Position Overview:
The Graduate School Intern (Licensed Professional Counselor Track) will gain supervised, hands-on experience in providing counseling services to clients in a private practice setting. This internship is designed for students pursuing a Master’s degree in Counseling and working toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the intern will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge, develop clinical skills, and work directly with clients in individual, group, and family therapy settings. This is an excellent opportunity for an aspiring counselor to gain valuable real-world experience while working toward their professional licensure.
Key Responsibilities:
Clinical Practice:
- Provide individual, group, and family counseling to clients under the supervision of a licensed counselor, addressing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and mental health issues.
- Conduct intake assessments, including biopsychosocial evaluations, to determine client needs and treatment goals.
- Develop and implement treatment plans in collaboration with clients, adjusting as necessary based on progress and feedback.
- Utilize evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, to support client growth and healing.
- Participate in regular supervision sessions with a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to discuss client cases, receive feedback, and enhance clinical skills.
Documentation & Record-Keeping:
- Maintain accurate and confidential clinical documentation, including intake forms, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries, in compliance with HIPAA and practice standards.
- Ensure that all clinical documentation is completed in a timely manner and meets the requirements of the counseling practice and the graduate program.
Client Support & Engagement:
- Build rapport with clients and provide a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment for them to express themselves and work toward their goals.
- Educate clients and their families on mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping strategies to promote positive outcomes.
- Assist clients with crisis intervention and offer immediate support, when necessary, under supervision.
Collaboration & Learning:
- Collaborate with the clinical team, including therapists, counselors, and administrative staff, to ensure clients receive comprehensive care.
- Participate in case consultations, clinical team meetings, and peer supervision to gain insights from experienced clinicians and improve your own counseling techniques.
- Attend professional development opportunities, workshops, and trainings as part of the practice’s commitment to continuous learning.
- Apply feedback from supervision and team consultations to enhance clinical practice and professional growth.
Professional Development & Ethics:
- Adhere to all ethical guidelines and legal standards for professional counseling, including confidentiality, informed consent, and professional boundaries.
- Demonstrate a commitment to the core values of the counseling profession, including empathy, respect, and advocacy for client well-being.
- Stay informed of current trends, research, and best practices in counseling through participation in continuing education opportunities as required by your graduate program.
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field, with the intention of pursuing licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
- Completion of core graduate-level coursework in counseling theories, techniques, and ethics.
- Eligibility for a supervised clinical internship as part of your graduate program’s requirements.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and trust with clients.
- Commitment to working under supervision and a willingness to accept constructive feedback to enhance clinical skills.
Desired Skills:
- Previous experience in mental health, social work, or a related field (preferred but not required).
- Familiarity with therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, or trauma-informed care.
- Ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism, confidentiality, and compassion.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to balance clinical responsibilities and academic requirements.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Unpaid/paid internship depending on the arrangement with the graduate program (specify).
- Supervision provided by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to meet graduate program and licensure requirements.
- Opportunities for professional development and attendance at clinical workshops and trainings.
- Flexible work schedule to accommodate academic commitments.
- Potential for future employment opportunities within the practice upon graduation and licensure.
This internship offers an exciting opportunity for a motivated counseling student to gain hands-on experience in a private counseling practice under the supervision of a Licensed Professional Counselor. The intern will develop practical clinical skills, engage in meaningful client work, and make a positive impact on the lives of clients while working toward graduation and licensure.