Internship (Housing Initiative Program) 2026-2027 Social Work/Counseling Fieldwork

Opportunity Summary: 

The Housing Initiative Program (HIP) supports chronically mentally ill residents of Montgomery County sustain their housing, or find housing, in order to prevent homelessness. The HIP Program Intern would learn how to offer case management and social support services to adult clients under the supervision of a veteran social worker. The skills that could be potentially acquired would include supportive counseling, homeless outreach, resource location, care coordination, and housing placement.

Opportunity Time Frame:

The HIP Intern would serve through the academic year 2026-2027 for 16-20 hours per week. Days and times can be negotiated with the program director.

Eligibility Requirements: 

Students will be considered who are enrolled in the internship phase of their BSW program or the first year of their MSW program.

Learning Models: 

HIP Interns will be fully engaged in social work tasks and responsibilities under the mentorship of a veteran social worker. Interns will also be able to participate in formal trainings through Sheppard Pratt and will receive both individual and group supervision.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Understanding the principles and practices of social work case management. 2. Learning the challenges of chronic mental illness and the risks of homelessness. 3. Understanding the approaches to preventing homelessness and locating viable housing.

Student Tasks: 

1. Assisting their supervising social worker with case management tasks. 2. Offering supportive counseling and guidance on housing to clients. 3. Completing documentation to monitor client wellbeing and receipt of needed services.