Job Title: Graduate School Intern (Social Work Track)
Location: Alaska
Reports to: Clinical Director/Supervising Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Job Type: Internship
Practice Type: Private Counseling Practice
Position Overview:
The Graduate School Intern (Social Work Track) will gain supervised, hands-on experience in providing counseling and case management services to clients in a private practice setting. This internship is designed for students pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) and working toward licensure as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the intern will have the opportunity to apply social work theories, develop clinical skills, and work directly with clients in individual, group, and family therapy settings. This role offers a valuable opportunity to gain practical experience while fulfilling the internship requirements of a graduate social work program.
Key Responsibilities:
Clinical Practice:
- Provide individual, group, and family counseling to clients under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or other licensed supervisor, addressing a range of mental health and social issues.
- Conduct biopsychosocial assessments to evaluate client needs, strengths, and challenges, and help develop treatment plans tailored to their goals.
- Apply evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care.
- Assist clients in developing coping strategies, accessing social services, and navigating personal challenges.
- Participate in regular supervision sessions with a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to discuss client cases, receive feedback, and refine clinical skills.
Case Management & Client Advocacy:
- Collaborate with clients to develop care plans and connect them with relevant community resources, such as housing, healthcare, employment support, and financial assistance.
- Provide case management services, ensuring clients have access to the resources and services needed to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
- Advocate for clients' rights and needs within the healthcare and social service systems, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support.
- Support clients in crisis intervention situations, helping them to stabilize and access immediate resources.
Documentation & Record-Keeping:
- Maintain accurate and confidential clinical documentation, including assessments, progress notes, and treatment plans, in compliance with HIPAA and practice standards.
- Ensure all records are up to date, thorough, and in compliance with the standards required by the counseling practice and your graduate program.
Client Support & Engagement:
- Build strong therapeutic relationships with clients, creating a supportive and safe environment for them to explore and address their challenges.
- Educate clients and their families about mental health conditions, available resources, and strategies to foster recovery and resilience.
- Assist clients in addressing social, emotional, and practical challenges that may arise during their treatment.
Collaboration & Learning:
- Collaborate with therapists, case managers, and other clinical staff to provide integrated care and ensure the holistic well-being of clients.
- Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and peer supervision to gain insights from experienced clinicians and apply those insights to your own practice.
- Attend workshops and training sessions offered by the practice to enhance your knowledge of clinical social work and professional development.
Professional Development & Ethics:
- Adhere to the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics and other legal and professional standards for social work practice.
- Demonstrate commitment to the values of social justice, equity, and client empowerment.
- Engage in self-reflection and actively seek feedback from supervisors and colleagues to improve clinical skills.
- Stay informed of trends and best practices in the field of social work through continuing education and research.
Qualifications:
- Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.
- Completion of core graduate-level coursework in social work 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 with clients and work collaboratively with the clinical team.
- Demonstrated commitment to client-centered care and advocacy for individuals facing mental health and social challenges.
Desired Skills:
- Previous experience in social services, mental health, or case management (preferred but not required).
- Familiarity with therapeutic techniques such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care.
- Ability to navigate sensitive situations with professionalism, empathy, and confidentiality.
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to balance clinical responsibilities and academic obligations.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Unpaid/paid internship depending on the arrangement with the graduate program (specify).
- Supervision provided by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) to meet graduate program and licensure requirements.
- Opportunities for professional development and attendance at clinical workshops and training sessions.
- 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 social work student to gain hands-on experience in a private counseling practice under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. 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 licensure as an LCSW.