YMCA Youth & Family Services offers practicum placements for students and emerging professionals interested in building a rewarding career in the mental and behavioral health field.
In this program, you’ll apply your knowledge, creativity, and energy while gaining the supervised experience you need to meet your practicum requirements. These placements provide hands-on opportunities to work with a variety of mental health needs, guided by exceptional clinical supervision and training.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Commit 20–25 hours per week, depending on program and placement requirements.
- Participate in regular supervision and feedback sessions with experienced staff.
- Engage directly with participants through individual, family, or group support.
- Assist with assessments, planning, documentation, and participant coordination.
- Gain experience working with a variety of participant needs and life challenges.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is eligible to apply?
Master’s-level students in counseling, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or social work who are seeking practicum or internship hours as part of their degree program.
What does the application process involve?
Our process is simple and supportive:
- Reach Out: Fill out the form below to express interest.
- Apply: Complete a short pre-screen questionnaire and volunteer application.
- Schedule: Once we have your application, we’ll set up an interview with Program Directors and a Clinical Supervisor.
- Interview: Meet with our team (in person or on Zoom).
- Next Steps: You’ll receive either an offer letter or a follow-up email.
What kind of supervision is provided?
Students receive individual, triadic, and group supervision by licensed clinicians.
What kind of clients will I work with?
You may work with children, teens, adults, families, and groups facing a variety of presenting issues, including relationship challenges, life transitions, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, and more.
Is this a paid placement?
Placements are unpaid but provide extensive training, supervision, and experience that prepares students for future clinical roles.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?
Complete the form below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
