Counseling Intern

Counseling Intern (Master’s Level)

Inner Balance Counseling | Mesa & Tempe, AZ
Adult Outpatient Practice | In-Office Telehealth

Inner Balance Counseling is a trauma-informed outpatient practice serving adults (18+) in the East Valley. Our work includes general mental health, trauma, addictions, and specialized adult populations. The internship program is designed to provide real clinical experience with strong support, clear expectations, and room to learn.

This internship is a learning experience first. At the same time, it also allows us to get to know interns over time, and strong performance during the internship may lead to consideration for a therapist position after graduation.

Internship Experience

Interns provide individual counseling to adult clients via telehealth from our office. Caseloads are built gradually, with close supervision and support throughout the process. Interns gain experience with assessment, documentation, treatment planning, and ethical outpatient practice in a structured but flexible environment.

Responsibilities

Provide individual counseling services to adults under supervision

Complete intake assessments and required documentation, including:

Mental Status Exams

Biopsychosocial assessments

LOCUS, ASAM, SAFE-T Risk Assessment

PHQ-9, GAD-7, ORS, SRS, and other required measures

Develop and carry out treatment plans using evidence-based practices

Communicate with referral sources, psychiatrists, or primary care physicians every 30 days using coordination of care forms

Gradually build toward a caseload of 12–16 clients per week to meet school requirements

Co-facilitate a minimum of one group during the internship

Complete progress notes within 24 hours of the session

Maintain complete, accurate, and ethical client records

Complete discharge summaries as required

Attend weekly supervision, all required trainings, and present one taped session every 8 weeks

Complete assigned readings and learning activities

Follow all Inner Balance Counseling policies and procedures

Submit weekly hour logs by 8:00 a.m. Monday for the prior week

Maintain professional conduct in person and online

Exercise sound clinical judgment and follow AZBBHE rules and ethical standards

Schedule & Time Commitment

Internship begins with a slow, supported ramp-up

Once fully ramped, interns should have approximately 20 hours per week available

Monday–Thursday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

All client services are provided via telehealth from the office

Ability to begin two weeks prior to the academic semester for onboarding and training

Requirements

Currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program in professional counseling or a related field

Completion of pre-practicum in accordance with AZBBHE requirements

Understanding of professional ethics relevant to the field

Ability to dedicate time consistently during business hours

Desire to learn and grow clinically

Willingness to receive feedback and learn from mistakes

Ability to engage in critical thinking and professional judgment

Benefits

Extra trainings and learning opportunities

Supportive supervision and structured guidance

First consideration for Mental Health Therapist positions after graduation