What are the responsibilities and job description for the Outpatient Therapy Internship - Biddeford & Portland position at Alternative Wellness Services Inc?
Job Description
Job Description
Description :
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 :
Training in Assessment and Treatment Planning :
Collaborative and Independent Practice :
Professional Development and Supervision :
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 :
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 :
Requirements : 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 :