Clinical Mental Health Internship

Company Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better healthcare, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. At Northwestern Medicine, we pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, we take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job Description

Required: Current enrollment in a master’s degree program in counseling or social work.

*Please note this internship is unpaid.

Position Title: Clinical Mental Health Intern

Location: NM Ben Gordon Center, 12 Health Services Drive DeKalb, IL 60115

Duration:  Summer/Fall 2025 or Fall 2025 /Spring 2026

Availability: Candidates must be available three days per week, during a standard Monday-Friday work week, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Position Overview:

The Clinical Mental Health Internship provides a comprehensive opportunity for advanced master's-level students to gain practical, hands-on experience in a dynamic clinical setting. The intern will work closely with licensed mental health professionals, participating in a variety of clinical activities including intake assessments, crisis intervention, and community outreach. This position is ideal for candidates in their second or final internship, who are eager to develop their skills in mental health care delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Intake Assessments: Conduct thorough intake assessments with clients to gather relevant personal, social, and medical history information. Evaluate client needs and recommend appropriate services or treatment plans.
• Walk-in Crisis Situations: Provide immediate support and assessments for walk-in clients experiencing acute mental health crises. Implement crisis intervention strategies effectively and compassionately.
• Crisis Line Support: Respond to calls on the crisis line, offering emotional support, risk assessment, and referrals as needed. Maintain accurate documentation of all interactions.
• Mobile Crisis Response Team: Participate in a mobile crisis response team, collaborating with fellow professionals to provide on-site support during community crises.
• Requests for Services: Manage and respond to service requests, ensuring that clients are connected with appropriate resources in a timely manner.
• Collaboration and Documentation: Work collaboratively with clinical staff and other stakeholders to facilitate client care. Ensure all assessments, interventions, and referrals are documented accurately in accordance with confidentiality policies.
• Professional Development: Attend supervision sessions, trainings, and team meetings to enhance clinical skills and gain feedback on performance.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Current enrollment in a master’s degree program in counseling or social work.
• Completion of coursework necessary for the second and final internship placement.
• Previous experience in a clinical or counseling setting is preferred but not required.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and exercising ethical judgment.

Additional Information

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.