Community-Based Clinical Trainee (First Year)

Community-Based Clinical Trainee First Year

At A Better Way, Inc., we are committed to supporting children, youth, and families involved in—or at risk of entering—the foster care and child welfare systems. Our programs provide trauma-informed, community-based mental health services that promote resilience, stability, and long-term well-being.

Role Summary

Under the supervision of licensed clinicians (LCSWs and/or LMFTs), the Community-Based Clinical Trainee provides direct mental health services to children and youth (birth through age 21) and their families across multiple A Better Way programs. Trainees gain hands-on clinical experience, receive high-quality supervision, and develop professional competencies aligned with California BBS requirements, and best practices in community mental health including evidence-based practices (EBPs).

Services may be delivered in home, school, office, community, or telehealth settings, depending on program needs and client circumstances.

Key Responsibilities

• Support children, youth, and families through case management, linkage, and care coordination services in schools, homes, offices, community settings, and via telehealth, as appropriate to trainee level
• Learn and apply a "person-in-environment" framework to better understand how family dynamics, systems involvement, social determinants of health, culture, education, and community factors impact client well-being
• Participate as an integrated member of a multidisciplinary team that may include clinicians, case managers, primary care physicians, school personnel, child welfare workers, and community-based providers
• Support clients and families in accessing resources and navigating systems of care, including behavioral health, education, medical, social service, and community support systems
• Assist with care coordination activities and follow-up support to help ensure clients receive timely and appropriate services
• Learn and understand the Integrated Core Practice Model (ICPM) and observe how collaborative teaming supports children and families across systems
• Participate in Child and Family Team (CFT) meetings, school meetings, Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, and other multidisciplinary meetings as appropriate
• Develop foundational skills in professional communication, engagement, rapport building, documentation, and ethical practice within community behavioral health settings
• Meet regularly with assigned field supervisor and participate in weekly individual and group supervision in accordance with academic and practicum requirements
• Integrate classroom learning, theory, and social work concepts into field-based experiences and client support activities
• Maintain timely, accurate, and compliant documentation related to assigned support activities, case management tasks, and practicum responsibilities
• Participate in required training during onboarding and throughout the internship year to support professional development and program compliance
• Learn and adhere to mandated reporting laws, confidentiality requirements, HIPAA standards, professional ethics, agency policies, and community behavioral health regulations
• Participate in competency development and performance evaluations to support learning, growth, and professional readiness

Qualifications

· Must be currently enrolled in a bachelor's and or Master's level accredited school of counseling, social work, or psychology

· Strong clinical writing skills

· Understanding of basic theoretical and developmental principles of children's mental health and family systems

· Must have a car, good driving records, and valid car insurance

· Understand and desire to work with a strength-based mental health approach

· Knowledge, understanding, and willingness to work with interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships

· Strong desire to learn, take initiative, be curious and reflective, and be adaptable to change.

· Ability to work independently and as a member of the team.

· Proficient organizational, computer, and communication skills

· Some experience working with children or adolescents is required

· Strong ability to engage and connect with children and their caregivers

Work Environment

The Clinical Trainee works in a combination of office, telehealth, and community-based settings. In-person attendance is typically required for client sessions unless alternate arrangements are approved. In-person attendance is generally required 1 days per week for supervision, staff meetings, and other job-related responsibilities. Remote work privileges vary by role and are subject to supervisor approval.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. The trainee regularly uses hands and fingers to handle objects and operate equipment, and frequently stands, talks, and hears. The trainee may be required to sit on the floor with children and must be able to bend, reach, lift, and move items weighing up to 15 pounds.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a part-time role. Practicum Placement determines days. Trainees are required to be onsite or available for up to 24 hours per week.

Travel

Local travel to various worksites may be required. Travel outside of SF County may be required to accommodate client needs.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Internship placement is contingent upon passing a background check and obtaining TB and health clearances. When applicable, driving records are periodically reviewed in accordance with company policy. Interns must comply with organizational vaccination requirements.

A Better Way is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Inclusive environments for all employees and applicants are our priority. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, neurodiversity, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, genetic information, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. This document may be subject to periodic review and revision in compliance with California labor and employment regulations.