Substance Use Disorder Internship
Our SUD Counselor Internship program is specifically for students enrolled in a Drug and Alcohol Studies Program through an accredited educational program. During their time in our programs, interns are able to observe the daily activities of a residential or outpatient SUD treatment program. Interns have an opportunity to shadow certified SUD Counselors and/or LPHAs during assessment, treatment planning, groups, classes, counseling sessions, and case management sessions. Interns will have an opportunity to attend treatment team meetings and learn about documentation requirements in an electronic health record system. Interns will also have opportunities to work with staff and support clients in their process towards recovery. All interns receive regular weekly supervision with a Certified/Licensed SUD Counselor in a Supervisory Role, Registered LPHA, or Clinical Supervisor in accordance with educational program requirements.
Requirements and Qualifications:
- Must be registered with an SUD Counselor Certifying Organization (CO) recognized by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) before internship start date
- Must be enrolled in an accredited educational program studying to become an SUD Counselor
- Comfort working with challenges around substance use, mental health symptoms, criminal histories, and other potential barriers to economic self sufficiency
- Awareness of cultural humility and able to work with a diverse population
- Professional, punctual, flexible and reliable
- Able to handle sensitive information in a confidential manner
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and internet applications
- Some locations may require a background check. Students who are on active parole or have a criminal record may not be eligible for placement with certain programs.
- All SUD Counselor Interns must present a TB clearance before the internship starts
Training and Supervision:
- On-boarding training will include self-paced online training through our agency learning management system as well as an in-person orientation at your placement location
- Shadow a certified SUD Counselor and/or LPHA
- Weekly supervision with a certified SUD Counselor, Registered LPHA, or Clinical Supervisor as applicable
- Attend Treatment Team Meetings
- Access to agency trainings on Evidence Based Best Practices
A NOTE ON EXPECTATIONS:
As an intern you will be not be working independently. Examples of some activities you will NOT be performing as an intern include the following activities: entering into our EHR system, leading groups, providing direct services to clients, carrying a caseload, conducting UA testing, handling medications, meeting with clients on a one to one basis.
Please use the links below to apply for an internship at your preferred location:
Including:
815 Duel Diagnosis Co-ed Adult Residential Program
890 Men’s Adult Residential Program
Women's HOPE Mother and Child Residential Program
AARS Outpatient Program: Co-ed and Women’s SUD Treatment and Mental Health Services
1563 Outpatient Program: Co-ed SUD Treatment and Mental Health Services
African American Healing Center: Co-ed SUD Treatment and Mental Health Services
FOTEP, Treasure Island: Women’s Residential Treatment for Parolees and their Children
Santa Clara County Adult and Adolescent Outpatient SUD Services in San Jose, CA
Pomona Adult Outpatient in Pomona, CA
Pomona Adult Residential in Pomona, CA
Oxnard Mother and Child Residential Program in Oxnard, CA
Contact Information