Connect Intern in Somerville, Massachusetts at Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services Incorporated

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Connect Intern will support the behavioral health team by assisting with client engagement, community resource coordination, behavioral health outreach activities, administrative projects, and educational programming. This internship provides students or recent graduates with hands-on exposure to social work, psychology, behavioral health supports, services for older adults, and community-based care.

Under the supervision of a licensed Social Worker and after completing the required training and onboarding, the intern will carry a caseload of older adults requesting behavioral health support. In addition to utilizing therapeutic practices, the intern will participate in resource development, program coordination, and documentation practices while adhering to all agency policies, confidentiality requirements, and professional standards.

This unpaid internship offers an opportunity to learn about integrated care services, behavioral health outreach, community resource networks, and person-centered approaches to supporting older adults and other vulnerable populations.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Work directly with older adults who are experiencing emotional and/or behavioral health challenges:
• Assess their needs
• Support stabilization
• Link with short and long-term services
• Provide psychotherapy

• Access crisis intervention services as needed
• Become knowledgeable of local resources and programs, both mental health-related and otherwise and make referrals as needed
• Assist Clinical Services staff with outreach and engagement activities for clients and community partners.
• Research and compile information regarding community resources, behavioral health programs, housing services, and other support services available to clients.
• Help develop educational materials, flyers, presentations, and resource guides for clients and caregivers
• Participate in team meetings, case consultations, staff trainings, and professional development opportunities
• Support quality improvement and special projects within the Clinical Integration Department
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of assigned internship activities.
• Adhere to HIPAA regulations and agency confidentiality standards at all times.
• Perform other duties and learning assignments as directed by the supervisor.

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AND CONDUCT

Collaborative and Responsive

• Demonstrates a willingness to learn and work collaboratively with staff, clients, and community partners.
• Responds professionally to feedback and supervision.
• Maintains organization and effectively manages assigned projects and deadlines.

Communication

• Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Communicates respectfully with diverse populations and professional stakeholders.
• Maintains professionalism in all interactions.

Analytical

• Demonstrates curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Assists with gathering and analyzing information to support programs and services.
• Attendance and Punctuality
• Maintains a reliable internship schedule.
• Attends required meetings, training sessions, and supervision meetings.
• Notifies supervisor promptly regarding absences or scheduling concerns.
• Commitment
• Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, accountability, and respect.
• Supports the agency's mission, values, and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and community service.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Current enrollment in or recent completion of a Bachelor's, Master's or PsyD degree program in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Public Health, Counseling, Gerontology, or a related field.
• Interest in behavioral health, social services, aging services, or community-based care.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment.
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook preferred.
• Experience with data entry, research, or community engagement activities preferred.
• Fluency in a second language is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

• Physical surroundings are comfortable with minimal exposure to injury or hazards.
• Work may be performed in an office, community setting, or hybrid environment depending on program needs.

SOCIAL/PSYCHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS

• Occasional stress due to periodic workload demands, project deadlines, and competing priorities.
• Regular interaction with clients, staff, caregivers, and community partners.

PHYSICAL EFFORT

• Frequently sits, stands, walks, bends, reaches, and stoops throughout the day.
• Frequently uses a computer, telephone, and other office equipment.
• Occasionally lifts, carries, pushes, or pulls materials weighing up to 20 lbs.
• Periodic eye strain associated with computer work.

Note: This is an unpaid educational internship intended to provide practical experience and professional development opportunities. Academic credit may be available through participating educational institutions, subject to school requirements and approval.

Reasonable accommodation may be considered for qualified individuals consistent with applicable law.