At ASCEND, we are dedicated to fostering the next generation of mental wellness advocates and professionals. Our Mental Wellness Internship Program provides students and emerging professionals with hands-on experience in community-based mental health initiatives, advocacy, and direct support services.
Are you a student enrolled in an accredited mental health, psychology, or substance use counseling, or social work program?
Check out our internship opportunities here at ASCEND!
Non-Clinical Internships:
Supportive Residential Care Intern
- Provide Ongoing Resident Support – Check in with residents to offer guidance on maintaining stable housing, addressing concerns, and connecting them with necessary community resources.
- Engage in Outreach and Community Integration– Assist staff in connecting residents with employment, education, and social opportunities to enhance their stability and self-sufficiency.
- Observe and Support Crisis Intervention Efforts– Learn how staff address challenges related to mental health and substance use, gaining experience in de-escalation and problem-solving strategies.
Restorative Residential Care Intern
- Support Daily Living Skills Development – Assist residents with meal planning, budgeting, personal hygiene reminders, and household management to enhance their independence.
- Facilitate Recreational and Social Activities– Organize group activities, outings, and skill-building workshops to encourage social interaction and community engagement.
- Learn and Support Crisis Intervention Strategies – Observe and assist staff in de-escalation techniques and crisis response to gain hands-on experience in mental health support.
East Side Center & Support Services Intern
- Assist with Rehabilitation and Wellness Activities – Support individuals in social, recreational, and skill-building activities/groups at the East Side Center to promote personal growth and community engagement.
- Observe and Learn Person-Centered Approaches – Gain experience in individualized recovery planning by shadowing staff and contributing to support strategies tailored to each person’s goals.
- Engage in Employment Support and Job Coaching – Assist staff in training and coaching individuals in the Work Program, helping them develop job skills and confidence.
Horticulture & Wellness Garden Intern
- Assist with Gardening and Crop Maintenance – Help plant, water, weed, and harvest produce while learning about therapeutic gardening techniques.
- Engage with Members in Therapeutic Activities – Support individuals in hands-on gardening tasks, encouraging mindfulness, stress relief, and self-esteem building.
- Facilitate Educational Workshops – Assist in developing and leading sessions on sustainable gardening, nutrition, and the mental health benefits of horticulture.
Clinical Internships:
Caleo Counseling Services Intern
- Clinical interns must be 18 years or older, a second-year MSW student, an advanced MSW, or an MHC student.
- Hands-on training through supervised observation of experienced clinicians for a minimum of 2-3 weeks.
- Clinical Practicums typically consist of 16+ hours per week, based on school requirements
Apply for our clinical internships now!
All interns must have:
Valid NYS driver’s license acceptable to Agency insurance standards.
Must be of good character and background and display an affinity for working with people with mental illness and/or co-occurring disorders.
Must have the ability to work independently, have good problem-solving skills and can work as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
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Click Here to print out our Intern Application
You can return your intern application to our Human Resources Department via email at hr@ascendmw.org
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See what our interns have to say!
