Master Level Counseling Internship/Practicum

Purpose: This internship provides students pursuing a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge, strengthen clinical competencies, and develop practical counseling skills in a multidisciplinary treatment environment. Interns will gain experience working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and complex psychosocial challenges. Through supervised clinical experiences, students will develop skills in assessment, treatment planning, therapeutic interventions, and clinical documentation while learning to apply evidence-based approaches to addiction treatment. Education Requirements: Currently enrolled in a CSWE Accredited Master's level counseling program. College or university must have an active affiliation agreement with Team Recovery or be willing to establish and execute an affiliation agreement prior to the start of the internship. The university must agree to Team Recovery's internship requirements, policies, and expectations for student field placements. Experience Requirements: Eligible to complete field placement or internship for academic program required. Previous exposure to biopsychosocial assessments, treatment planning, or clinical documentation preferred. Previous volunteer, employment, or educational experience working with individuals experiencing substance use disorders, mental health challenges, or other psychosocial needs preferred. License Requirements: Counselor Trainee (CT) license is required. Knowledge required at time of placement: Ability to pay for and successfully complete a background check in accordance with agency policies and applicable state and federal requirements. Ability to pay for and successfully complete a pre-placement drug screening in accordance with agency policies. Must meet the position's minimum age requirement of 21. Ability to participate in Team Recovery's onboarding and orientation process. Interest in pursuing a career in substance use disorder treatment or behavioral health social work. Foundational understanding of mental health diagnoses, substance use disorders, and co-occurring conditions. Familiarity with community resources, case management, or advocacy services. Strong communication, organization, time-management, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work collaboratively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. General knowledge of addictions and behavioral health complications. Knowledge of alcohol and other drugs that include alcohol and addictive drugs and their physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual impact on the individual and the family. Ability to determine if a medical emergency exists and to take appropriate action, when necessary. Knowledge of emergency procedures used in case of alcohol and/or drug overdose. Knowledge of the stages of alcohol and other drug withdrawals and ability to take appropriate action at each stage. Knowledge of Federal, State and Municipal laws and/or regulations that regulate the treatment of alcoholism and drug addiction, including: Confidentiality Patient Rights Professional Code of Ethics Discrimination Core Internship Responsibilities: Develop familiarity with diagnostic criteria, screening tools, and assessment procedures. Gain exposure to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Criteria and how assessments inform treatment recommendations and appropriate levels of care. Develop and initiate individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings and clinical recommendations. Observe and participate in individual counseling and group therapy services under appropriate supervision. Assist with planning, preparing, and facilitating psychoeducational and therapeutic group sessions. Support clients in connecting with community resources and recovery support services. Gain experience identifying barriers related to housing, transportation, employment, and other social determinants of health. Complete accurate, timely clinical documentation for all services provided. Identify safety concerns, conduct risk assessments, and assist with safety planning within the scope of practice. Respond to crises, support de-escalation, and coordinate with appropriate emergency personnel when necessary. Collaborate with clinical, medical, and administrative teams to facilitate admissions and continuity of care. Help maintain a safe, supportive, and professional environment for clients and staff. Participate in required training, departmental meetings, and company initiatives. Participate in a minimum of one hour of scheduled supervision per week with an agency approved supervisor. Perform other related duties as needed to support the treatment team.