Intern Community Counseling at Youth and Family Alternatives – Bartow, Florida

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.

• 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

Interns may gain experience in:

• Clinical assessments and treatment planning

• Individual and group 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

• Bachelor’s or Master’s level student currently enrolled in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or a related Human Services field, or a Registered Intern through the Board

• 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

For Master’s Level Interns:
Master’s level interns must hold an undergraduate degree in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or a related Human Services field in order to have unsupervised client contact.

• Interest in working with youth and families

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

• Willingness to learn, accept feedback, and participate in supervision

• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office)

• Ability to maintain professionalism and confidentiality