Family Place Minneapolis Internship - Spring and Summer 2023

Agency Description

St. David’s Center has been serving families and children for over 60 years. Our mission is to build relationships that nurture the development of every child and family. We provide quality Early Childhood Education programs, Early Intervention and treatment programs, and Life Phase Services to the Western Suburbs and wider Hennepin County community. Family Place is an early intervention treatment program for young children (3.5-6) who may have experienced trauma, an early loss of or lack of consistent caregivers, and/or various forms of abuse or neglect. These children struggle to manage their emotions and behavior at home, within their childcare/school setting, and/or the larger community.

Learning Opportunities

• There are 2-3 internship opportunities within the Family Place program throughout the year.
• Interns are required to be present within the day treatment classroom a minimum of three days per week, for a minimum of a six month time frame. Preference will be given to those students willing to complete a school year (September through May).
• Summer block intern placements that are 40 hours/5 days per week are also considered.
• In the day treatment classroom, students will:
• Learn and utilize therapeutic intervention and developmental repair techniques based on current and relevant research.
• Learn and participate in play therapy techniques.
• Assist in planning and implementing therapeutic activities in the day treatment milieu.

In addition, students will have the opportunity to:

• Participate in diagnostic assessments in coordination with other staff.
• Participate in observing and co-facilitating center based, in-home or Telehealth Family Therapy sessions and Family Skills Sessions.

Supervision and Training

• Students will participate in weekly clinical staffing’s and receive one hour/week of individual reflective supervision.
• Students will work in a small supportive team environment and gain knowledge, guidance, and support from a diverse team of seasoned mental health professionals.
• Students will also have the opportunity to participate in program and agency trainings on a wide variety of relevant topics.
• Students are encouraged to bring in and integrate readings and assignments from their academic courses.

Qualifications

• Candidates should have a Master's Degree in Social Work.
• Candidates should be in their final year of Graduate School.
• Candidates should be enrolled in an accredited graduate program of study.
• Desired student qualities for effective work in this program include:
• Work or life experience with children.
• Ability to take direction and work as a team member.
• Strong communication and written skills.
• Ability to establish positive, respectful working relationships with a diverse population of adults and children.
• Flexibility, creativity, and the ability to think on their feet, problem solve well.