PURPOSE AND SCOPE:  The Social Work Intern supports OnPurpose’s mission to restore hope, healing, and purpose to youth and families in underserved communities. This internship provides hands-on experience in a high-need school in the Aldine ISD area of Houston, working directly with youth who have experienced trauma. Under the supervision of a Licensed Social Worker, the intern will gain practical experience in school-based mental health services, trauma-informed care, and family support systems. This role is ideal for BSW or MSW students seeking field hours and exposure to culturally responsive, faith-affirming, community-driven work. Interns will be paid a small stipend.

DUTIES / ACTIVITIES:  An integral part of the intern experience is fostering professional identity and competence in social work practice with youth and families. Interns will have opportunities to apply theory to practice through meaningful, supervised clinical and community engagement.

CLIENT SUPPORT AND INTERVENTION RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

• Conducting psychosocial assessments with students and/or families
• Supporting families with resource navigation and referral coordination
• Co-facilitating DBT-informed group sessions for youth
• Assisting with the development and delivery of parent psychoeducation workshops
• Observing and participating in therapeutic interventions under supervision
• Documenting services in accordance with ethical and clinical guidelines

CUSTOMER SERVICE & ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE:

• Embody the values of faith, purpose, service, and cultural humility in all interactions
• Build rapport and maintain effective communication with students, families, staff, and supervisors
• Participate in team meetings, training sessions, and reflective supervision
• Represent OnPurpose’s mission within the school and broader community

EDUCATION:

• Current enrollment in a Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work, or human services program
• Completion of foundational coursework in human behavior, ethics, and direct practice preferred

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Passion for working with youth who have experienced trauma
• Cultural responsiveness and humility when working with diverse populations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

SUPERVISION:

All activities are conducted under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Interns will receive regular supervision aligned with university requirements and field education plans.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Internship takes place in a school setting with some virtual and community-based activities
• Must be able to travel to the assigned school site in the Houston area