Clinical Internship FAQ

Who is eligible to apply?

Graduate-level students from accredited counseling and clinical social work programs are welcome to apply. Counseling programs may refer to this experience as a practicum and/or internship. On occasion, doctoral-level counseling students may also be considered.

How long is the internship?

The internship typically lasts 9–12 months, depending on your academic program. Most students complete between 600–900 total hours.

How many hours per week will I be on site?

Most interns are on site approximately 21 hours per week, usually spread across three days.

Are evening or weekend hours required?

Interns are expected to commit to two evening shifts per week, as most clients seek services during evening hours. Saturday opportunities may be available based on program and client needs; however, Saturday hours are not required. Most supervision and training support is available during weekday evenings.

Is this an in-person or remote internship?

This is an in-person internship, as assessments and most clinical services are provided on site. Limited remote opportunities may be considered after three months, based on supervisor discretion and program needs.

What types of clients will I work with?

This is a generalist internship. Interns work with children, adolescents, adults, and families, presenting with a wide range of concerns, with supervision to support clinical skill development.

How many clients will I carry?

Interns build their caseload gradually and typically carry up to ten clients by the end of the internship.

Will I receive individual supervision?

Yes. Each intern is assigned an individual clinical supervisor and participates in weekly one-on-one supervision.

Is group supervision required?

Yes. Interns participate in two hours of group supervision each week, including one hour of administrative group supervision and one hour of clinical group supervision. Group supervision is currently offered virtually on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Will I receive additional training beyond supervision?

Yes. Interns have access to weekly consultation groups on topics such as working with children and adolescents, multicultural factors in therapy, and substance use. Interns are also encouraged to attend monthly virtual continuing education programs.

How will I build my caseload?

Interns are trained to complete biopsychosocial assessments using the IM+CANS assessment tool. Clients often request ongoing therapy with the intern who completes their assessment, making this the primary pathway to caseload growth.

What are direct and indirect hours?

The internship supports CACREP and CSWE hour requirements. Direct hours may include therapy, assessments, live phone coverage, and group participation. Indirect hours include supervision, consultation, documentation, trainings, staff meetings, and treatment planning. Supervisors work closely with interns to help meet program-specific requirements.

What is live phone coverage?

Interns provide scheduled live phone coverage, responding to individuals seeking services. This includes screening, engagement, providing information, and facilitating referrals. These calls often lead to assessment and therapy opportunities.

Will I be trained and supported in crisis situations?

Yes. Interns are trained in crisis prevention, risk assessment, and safety planning and are never expected to manage crises alone. Supervisors and clinical leadership are available in real time to provide support.

Will I be supported with mandated reporting and DCFS calls?

Absolutely. Interns consult with supervisors regarding mandated reporting and DCFS decisions, including determining when a report is needed, how to make a report, and how to document and follow up appropriately.

What onboarding is required before starting?

Before orientation, interns complete required onboarding items such as IM+CANS certification, mandated reporter training, OIG checks, TB testing, and other compliance requirements. All interns undergo a criminal background check.

Is there a stipend for the internship?

Not at this time. However, Josselyn’s mission advancement team continues to seek opportunities to provide stipends for interns. Because availability may change, applicants are encouraged to ask about stipend opportunities during the interview process.

Do interns get hired at Josselyn?

Yes. All interns are encouraged to apply for Therapist I positions after completing their internship. Interns interested in continued employment are especially encouraged to consider positions at the Waukegan or Grayslake locations. Interns hired at these sites are currently eligible for the Schreiber Scholarship, which provides tuition reimbursement.

Why choose Josselyn for my internship?

Josselyn provides exceptional supervision, meaningful clinical experience, real-time support, and a collaborative learning environment. Interns are supported as emerging professionals while developing confidence, clinical competence, and strong ethical practice. Most importantly, you will not be alone in the process. You will learn alongside a cohort of peers from leading graduate programs, creating a supportive and enriching training experience.

Apply Now

Graduate students interested in a practicum or internship experience at Josselyn are encouraged to apply. The clinical internship program offers structured supervision, meaningful client experience, and a supportive learning environment for emerging counseling and clinical social work professionals.

Applicants should review program requirements carefully and be prepared to discuss availability, academic expectations, and training goals during the interview process.
To apply, please complete the Clinical Internship Inquiry form.

Apply Here