If you're passionate about storytelling, nonprofit branding, and event experiences that drive real impact—this internship is for you. As a Behavioral Health Intern at A Safe Place, you'll gain behind-the-scenes access to planning, marketing, and executing high-impact fundraising events and campaigns that sustain our mission.

Internship Overview:

We are seeking a passionate and proactive Clinical Behavioral Health Intern to join our dynamic team serving local domestic violence (DV) survivors. This internship provides hands-on experience in individual and group therapy, utilizing a person-centered, trauma-informed care approach. Interns support essential services that empower and transform lives, all while developing their professional skills in a fast-paced nonprofit environment. Weekly individual supervision and bi-monthly clinical consultation provided by licensed clinical staff.

What You’ll Do:

• Complete client intake, assessment, treatment planning, and service coordination
• Conduct individual and group mental health programming for DV survivors
• Connect clients with internal and community-based support services (education, life skills, legal aid, etc.)
• Participate in outreach efforts and awareness campaigns in the community
• Attend staff meetings, multidisciplinary consultations, and training opportunities
• Complete documentation and learn how to maintain Medicaid compliance and grant funding requirements
• Contribute to a culture of compassion, dignity, and professionalism

Compensation: Unpaid; course credit available if approved by your institution

Schedule: Flexible, minimum of 10–15 hours per week, including evening hours.

• Pursuing a Master's degree in Social Work (Advanced Standing Year or Secondary Internship); a Master's degree in Psychology/ Counseling, or a related field.
• Passionate about mental health, domestic violence prevention, and community advocacy
• Strong emotional intelligence and sensitivity to trauma
• Organized, proactive, and ready to contribute in fast-paced environments
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Teams, and digital documentation tools
• Strong communicator with a heart for social justice and survivor-centered care
• Able to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards
• Reliable transportation, a valid driver's license and registration, and active vehicle insurance

Training Requirement
Please note That Completion of the 40-hour Domestic Violence and Crisis Intervention Training is required for all interns. If you have not already completed this certification, A Safe Place offers the training at a discounted rate of $150. Training dates and payment instructions will be provided upon acceptance into the internship program.

What You’ll Gain:

• Real-world experience supporting trauma-informed services
• Exposure to the systems and strategies behind behavioral health casework
• Opportunities to build professional relationships with clinicians, advocates, and community leaders
• A meaningful, resume-building experience rooted in advocacy, service, and impact
• Training in the Illinois Model for Comprehensive Assessment of Needs and Strengths (IM+CANS) and Domestic Violence Protocols

Application Instructions:

Please submit the following materials to be considered for this internship:

• Your resume
• A brief letter of interest outlining your availability and why this opportunity resonates with your goals
• One (1) letter of recommendation

Letter of Recommendation

The letter should be written by a faculty member or professional reference who can attest to your character, work ethic, or readiness for an internship experience. Letters from family members or personal friends will not be accepted.

Rolling Interviews—Apply Early! 

Internship Duration: Mid-January to Mid-August 2026 

Flexible start and end dates; perfect for Spring and Summer semester placements.

Join us in creating safer futures and sustainable healing.
This is more than an internship—it’s a chance to make a difference.