The Doctoral Internship Training Program at Bridges of the Mind Psychological Services, Inc. is a one-year, full-time, 2,000-hour APPIC-accredited internship that provides a comprehensive training experience in clinical psychology. Our goal is to prepare psychologists to serve diverse populations, including children, adolescents, adults, and families, many of whom are neurodiverse and present with co-occurring psychological conditions. We work with clients from all socioeconomic backgrounds in both our clinic and school settings, equipping interns with the skills needed for ethical, entry-level practice.
Our training philosophy emphasizes advocating for neurodiverse clients and delivering comprehensive psychological services. Interns work in educational and community settings, ensuring that all clients receive high-quality, personalized care, which aligns with our mission of bridging gaps in mental health care for underserved populations.
The program offers a supervised learning environment where interns engage in neurodevelopmental assessments, therapeutic interventions, and diagnostic evaluations. This broad exposure allows interns to develop strong competencies in both assessment and therapy, preparing them for independent practice in various settings, including private practice, hospitals, and community mental health centers.
We train interns in the clinical scientist model, encouraging them to base their clinical decisions on empirical data and evidence-based practices. Interns are also trained to deliver interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) while learning to administer and interpret assessments to understand clients' cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning.
Proficiency in psychological assessment is a key focus of the program. Interns are trained to select, administer, and interpret assessment tools and apply the findings in comprehensive treatment plans. Supervisors ensure interns integrate best practices into their work.
Ethical decision-making is another crucial component. Interns follow APA ethical guidelines, handling complex dilemmas, maintaining confidentiality, and obtaining informed consent. Supervision sessions provide a space for reflection, helping interns understand how personal biases might affect their clinical work.
Interns are also taught to create actionable, client-centered treatment plans based on assessment findings and to communicate these clearly in reports and feedback sessions. Effective communication, both verbal and written, is emphasized, ensuring interns can collaborate with other professionals and clearly explain treatment options to clients.
The structured weekly schedule balances clinical practice, supervision, and didactic learning, providing ample time for skill refinement, feedback, and application of knowledge in real-world settings.
Interns engage in a range of services, including assessments and therapeutic interventions for clients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurodevelopmental concerns. They also participate in community outreach through workshops, psychoeducation, and collaboration with community partners, fostering social responsibility.
Supervision is a cornerstone of the program, with individual supervision sessions and group discussions that offer case feedback, peer consultation, and professional development. Weekly didactic seminars cover topics like neurodevelopmental disorders, ethics, diversity, and therapeutic techniques.
Interns may also have the opporutnity to supervise practicum students, gaining valuable leadership experience in providing feedback and support to less experienced clinicians and preparing them for future supervisory roles.
Our facilities are designed to support training and therapy, with private offices, observation rooms, and wellness spaces. We also offer access to workshops, conferences, and online resources to ensure interns have the tools they need for success.
By the end of the program, interns will be proficient in psychological assessment, capable of integrating findings into treatment plans, and skilled in delivering evidence-based interventions. They will be prepared to make ethical decisions, communicate effectively, and collaborate with other professionals. Ultimately, this program equips interns to become independent, ethical, and culturally competent psychologists, ready to positively impact their communities.