Counselor Intern (Unpaid)

Overview Description Counselor Intern (Unpaid) — Residential Program Commitment: Part-time volunteer internship; minimum 3–6 months commitment preferred; one Saturday per month required for family program. Compensation : This is an unpaid volunteer internship; academic credit, supervision toward certification, letters of recommendation, and a written evaluation are available where applicable. Role summary Serve as a frontline counseling intern in a small, faith-based residential program serving up to 12 women in recovery. Under supervision, you will deliver individual and group counseling, support treatment planning, and teach recovery-focused classes that integrate spiritual, emotional, and practical skill development in accordance with Good News Home program standards and New Jersey rehabilitation mandates. Key duties and responsibilities Complete initial intake assessments and maintain ongoing assessments and progress evaluations for assigned clients. Enter and update client data in NJSAMS and the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Facilitate group therapy and teach addiction-focused classes addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual recovery. Schedule, document, and conduct individual counseling sessions in the EHR. Modify treatment plans based on observation and clinical supervision. Provide crisis intervention and appropriate short-term clinical support. Perform case-management tasks, including biosocial/legal coordination and referrals to community services. Read and integrate daily logs and shift notes into clinical interactions. Support clients’ development of life skills (e.g., personal budgeting, shopping) as part of rehabilitation work. Attend staff meetings, trainings, and supervision; submit certificates for training attendance. Participate in the monthly family program on one Saturday each month. Learning opportunities and non-monetary benefits Supervised, hands-on clinical experience toward CADC/MSW credentialing requirements. Experience with NJSAMS and EHR documentation practices used in New Jersey residential treatment. Mentorship from licensed clinicians and program leaders. Letter of recommendation and formal evaluation upon satisfactory completion; support for academic credit if requested. Requirements Currently pursuing or actively completing CADC credentialing or MSW program; documentation of enrollment required. Prior experience in residential, group-home, or addiction recovery settings strongly preferred. Understanding of addiction dynamics, co-occurring issues, and the role of spiritual practice in recovery. Strong assessment, documentation, and communication skills. Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Ability to maintain professional boundaries, confidentiality, and trauma-informed practice. Self-motivated, punctual, and able to work both independently and as part of a small team. Background check and references required. #J-18808-Ljbffr