Master's-Level Internship

High Plains Mental Health Center•Hays, KS

3d•Onsite

About The Position

High Plains Mental Health Center offers an unpaid, in-person, part-time internship or practicum for master’s-level students at any of its offices in Hays, Norton, Phillipsburg, Colby, Goodland, or Osborne, Kansas. The internship provides exposure to outpatient therapy, crisis intervention, care coordination, community-based services, integrated behavioral health care, and rural community mental health. Students work alongside experienced professionals, attend team meetings, participate in supervision, and gradually develop clinical skills under close guidance. This opportunity is intended for students who are not currently employed by HPMHC or current employees who do not wish to participate in the separate paid work-study/scholarship program. Interns may observe and participate in individual, family, and group therapy as appropriate and gradually take on psychotherapy and counseling responsibilities under direct supervision. They also assist with care coordination, complete clinical and administrative documentation, attend meetings and supervision, track internship hours, and complete orientation, training, and professional development. Applicants must submit a resume and letter of interest at least 60 days before the semester begins; selected candidates will be contacted about next steps and additional documentation.

Requirements

Be enrolled in an approved academic program and in good standing with the institution.
Have satisfactorily progressed through required coursework and prerequisites.
Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with individuals experiencing mental illness and functional impairment.
Demonstrate competency with computers, technology, and standard office software.
Maintain a valid driver’s license and a driving record consistent with agency insurability requirements.
Successfully complete applicable background checks.
Successfully complete a pre-employment drug screen.
Meet all TB testing and health screening requirements.
Be physically capable of responding appropriately in crisis situations and maintaining personal safety.

Responsibilities

Shadow licensed therapists and behavioral health professionals in clinical settings.
Observe and participate in individual, family, and group therapy services as appropriate.
Gradually assume increased responsibility for providing psychotherapy and counseling services under direct supervision.
Assist with care coordination and collaboration activities for assigned clients.
Complete clinical and administrative documentation according to agency policies and professional standards.
Attend staff meetings, case consultations, and supervisory sessions.
Track practicum or internship hours and maintain communication with HPMHC and university supervisors.
Complete required orientation, clinical training, and professional development activities.
Develop skills in clinical documentation, ethics, crisis response, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based behavioral health practices.
Gain exposure to multidisciplinary treatment teams and community mental health operations.