Sheppard Pratt·Hagerstown, Maryland
Interns will assist with client assessments, treatment planning, and the facilitation of therapeutic psychoeducational groups for adults with serious mental illness. They will also participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and document client interactions according to agency standards.
The Washington County Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) offers a comprehensive internship experience for social work students interested in community mental health and psychiatric rehabilitation services. This placement provides opportunities to develop clinical and professional skills through participation in psychoeducational groups, individualized client support, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Interns will gain exposure to evidence-based practices while working with adults diagnosed with serious mental illness in a recovery-oriented setting. The experience is designed to enhance understanding of public behavioral health systems and the delivery of psychiatric rehabilitation services.
Role Description
Observe and assist with client assessments and contribute to individualized service planning under supervision.
Assist with the development, coordination, and facilitation of therapeutic and psychoeducational group activities.
Provide supportive client engagement in both group and individual settings under the guidance of assigned staff.
Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings, case consultations, and care coordination activities.
Complete weekly reflection, learning, and professional development assignments.
Attend scheduled individual and group supervision sessions.
Document observations, client interactions, and assigned interventions in accordance with agency policies and documentation standards.
Support program development and quality improvement initiatives designed to enhance client engagement and recovery outcomes.
Develop knowledge and application of evidence-based practices, recovery-oriented approaches, and trauma-informed care principles.
Observe and assist with crisis intervention, de-escalation, and behavioral support activities under direct supervision and within the scope of the internship experience.
Gain exposure to ethical, professional, and culturally responsive social work practice within a behavioral health setting.
Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate knowledge of psychiatric rehabilitation principles and the delivery of public behavioral health services.
Apply recovery-oriented, person-centered, and trauma-informed approaches when engaging with individuals experiencing serious mental illness.
Develop, co-facilitate, and evaluate psychoeducational and skill-building group interventions.
Demonstrate effective professional communication, documentation, and case management practices in a behavioral health setting.
Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary team members in treatment planning, care coordination, and service delivery.
Apply foundational skills in crisis intervention, client engagement, and substance use treatment services under appropriate supervision.
Demonstrate professional behaviors, including ethical decision-making, adaptability, self-directed learning, reflective practice, and responsiveness to feedback.
Integrate social work values, cultural humility, and recovery-focused principles into interactions with clients, families, and colleagues.
Identify personal strengths, areas for growth, and strategies for ongoing professional development in social work practice.
What you’ll get from us…
In-person training on Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles.
Access to Relias online learning modules and organizational in-service trainings.
Individual supervision and coaching from experienced program leaders.
Observation and participation in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings.
Hands-on experience facilitating both group and individual rehabilitation services.
Ongoing feedback and professional development opportunities designed to build clinical competence and confidence.
Eligibility and Requirements
Be enrolled in an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at one of our affiliated institutions
Pass all required background screenings, health clearances, and onboarding requirements established by Sheppard Pratt.
Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn through supervision and feedback.
Complete all required training related to confidentiality, HIPAA, safety, and organizational policies.
Be available to complete required internship hours and commit to the full placement period.
Candidates must be enrolled in an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program and pass all required background and health screenings. Professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to the full placement period are required.
Market context
Behavioral-health roles in Maryland are typically driven by ongoing demand in community programs, outpatient settings, and care teams supporting patients with complex needs. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for a high school diploma or GED, at least two years of related experience, and an active American Heart Association BLS certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit, then confirm your certification status and recent experience before applying.
