Internship A

This is a field-based course that focuses on integrating mental health counseling theories with practical skills in P-12 school settings. Under the supervision of a licensed mental health counselor (or equivalent license per DCCA requirements) and a licensed school counselor, students will develop the knowledge and skills to support the mental health and emotional well-being of children and adolescents by recognizing, assessing, and intervening in challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and academic & behavioral concerns. Interns will refine their skills in individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and collaboration with educators, families, and community mental health resources while promoting resilience, fostering emotional regulation, and implementing preventative mental health programming. Through direct service delivery, participation in school activities, and contributions to comprehensive school counseling programs, students will gain hands-on experience that encourages professional growth through self-reflection, ethical decision-making, and cultural competence. Internship A requires approximately 300 hours (150 direct service hours and 150 administrative hours) across primary and secondary school settings and is part of a two-course sequence totaling 600 hours; any remaining hours will be completed during Internship B. Prerequisite: PSY 646S and successful completion of the PRAXIS II Exam-Content (School Counseling and Guidance).