Intern Community Counseling- SPRING 2027

Position Summary

The Counseling Intern will gain hands-on experience working with youth and families in a community-based counseling program. Interns will observe and assist with counseling services, case management, and truancy intervention efforts while developing clinical and professional skills in a trauma-informed environment.

Interns work under the supervision of the Program Director and a licensed clinician and participate in supervision, training, and team collaboration to support youth in improving school engagement and developing positive life skills.

This is an unpaid Internship and works in programs in a specific County or geographic area.  Our programs serve the following Counties:  Citrus, Sumter, Hernando, Pasco, Polk, Highlands and Hardee. 

This is NOT a virtual role; field work is required. 

Internship Responsibilities

• Assist with client intakes, assessments, and treatment planning

• Observe and support individual, group, and family counseling sessions

• Assist with case management activities including referrals and resource coordination

• Help monitor school attendance and support truancy intervention efforts

• Participate in youth skill-building groups and counseling activities

• Support client follow-ups and communication with families and community partners

• Learn documentation practices including contact notes, intake forms, and service records

• Observe or assist with truancy arbitration and court-related procedures when appropriate

• Attend supervision sessions, staff meetings, and program trainings

• Support program activities that promote youth engagement, education, and pro-social behaviors

• Maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards

• Apply trauma-informed practices when working with youth and families

Learning Opportunities

Interns may gain experience in:

• Assessments and treatment planning

• Individual, group, and family counseling techniques

• Case management and community resource coordination

• Truancy intervention and family engagement

• Collaboration with schools, courts, and community partners

• Clinical documentation and professional ethics

• Trauma-informed care practices

Internship Requirements

• Enrolled in a Master Level program in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or a related Human Services field OR be registered with the state board as a registered intern

• Interns must hold an undergraduate degree in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or a related Human Services field

• Must be at least 21 years of age

• Must have reliable transportation and active auto insurance

• Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards

• Proof of liability coverage through your school or professional liability insurance

To be considered for the role after submitting your application please email the following to CommunityCounseling@yfainc.org

• Personal Statement- 1-2 pages answering the following

  • Why are you interested in working with youth and families?
  • Why are you interested in a community-based counseling program?
  • Describe an experience that challenged you professionally or personally and what you learned from it.
  • What do you believe is your role as a social work intern when working with a family whose values or decisions differ from your own?

• Copy of unofficial transcripts