Founded in 1809, The Village is a large, private, non-profit, multi-service agency with a strengths-based, community-centered philosophy. The agency mission is "to build a community of strong, healthy families who protect and nurture children." Interns work in the Enhanced Care Clinic (an outpatient mental health facility) where they provide a range of therapeutic services. Interns also gain experience in completing interview-based intake assessments, mid-level developmental evaluations for children ages 0-6 years old, and professional development. Interns also complete ADHD evaluations. Supervision, advanced seminars, and team meetings are integral aspects of the training. The internship program, along with the agency as a whole, is fully committed to the ongoing pursuit of cultural humility. Village clients are diverse in terms of racial and cultural identity. Many have histories of significant trauma, as well as complex life circumstances. Interns are therefore trained in evidence-based practices for the treatment of childhood trauma. The work is both challenging and rewarding. Interns who are a good match with us are generally those who have strong assessment and intervention skills and who also possess and demonstrate energy, flexibility, a sense of humor, and the willingness to continue learning.
As recommended by the American Psychological Association we have adopted the required Program-Wide Competencies as listed in the Standards of Accreditation for Health Service Psychology, which are as follows:
1. Research 2. Ethical and Legal Standards 3. Individual and Cultural Diversity 4. Professional Values and Attitudes 5. Communication and Interpersonal Skills 6. Assessment 7. Intervention 8. Supervision 9. Consultation and interprofessional/interdisciplinary skills
In addition, we have added a Program-Specific Competency of Self-Care as recommended in Miller’s 2022 article in Training and Education in Health Service Psychology.
Candidates should have a minimum of 1200 practicum hours, with 500 hours being direct client intervention and assessment(combined).