MSW Intern - Sharp House

About the role

Good Shepherd Services is seeking a dedicated and resilient MSW Intern to support youth in a juvenile detention setting. This internship provides hands-on experience working with adolescents involved in the justice system, with a focus on rehabilitation, mental health support, and successful reintegration into the community. Interns will work under the supervision of a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Assist with intake and assessment processes, including gathering new admission information, supporting mental health assessments, and entering data into the agency database
• Participate in regular engagement with youth, including increased contact during intake and before and after court appearances
• Support the provision of therapeutic individual and group services for youth, focusing on emotional regulation, coping skills, and behavioral support under LMSW supervision
• Absorb case management responsibilities, including coordinating family visitation and phone contact and supporting service planning
• Assist in preparing and providing court-ordered adjustment reports for youth, including gathering relevant behavioral, educational, and clinical information for court appearances under supervision
• Maintain communication with interdisciplinary team members, families, and external stakeholders as appropriate to support coordinated care
• Support family engagement efforts, including participation in family meetings and case conferences when appropriate
• Contribute to the development of treatment/service plans by assisting with recommendations, goal setting, and interventions based on assessment findings
• Complete documentation in accordance with DYFJ, OCFS, and GSS requirements, including case notes, assessments, and service plans under supervision
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and case planning discussions
• Observe and support crisis intervention and de-escalation, and assist with safety planning and behavioral interventions under supervision
• Meet with youth following incidents to support reflection and assist in completing conflict resolution documentation
• Participate in post-incident debriefings and assist with documentation and future safety planning
• Co-facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic groups, including topics such as anger management, life skills, and emotional regulation
• Support transition and reentry planning by assisting with discharge planning and connecting youth and families to community resources
• Learn and apply trauma-informed practices, including the Sanctuary Model and SELF (Safety, Emotional Management, Loss, Future) framework
• Participate in community meetings, team meetings, and other program structures that promote a safe and therapeutic environment
• Attend weekly supervision with LMSW and actively engage in professional development and reflective practice
• Attend required training, meetings, and workshops

Requirements

N/A

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an MSW program
• Passing score on the Praxis II exam (if required)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Experience with trauma-informed care and mental health support
• Knowledge of legal and administrative procedures related to juvenile justice

Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Benefits

N/A

Pay

Unpaid / Academic Credit

Schedule

Flexible schedule to accommodate the needs of the program and the youth served