INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Behavioral Health Clinical Internship

CompanyBoston Public Health Commission
LocationBoston
Work ModeOn Site
PostedSeptember 9, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will provide clinical assessments, crisis intervention, and referral services for homeless guests presenting with mental health needs. They will also collaborate with internal departments and external agencies to facilitate treatment plans and maintain accurate clinical records.
Internship Type
internship
Company Size
891
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Welcome! We’re Boston’s public health department. We work in partnership with communities to protect and promote the health and well-being of all Boston residents, especially those impacted by racism and systemic inequities. We envision a thriving Boston where all residents live healthy, fulfilling lives free of racism, poverty, violence, and other systems of oppression. Equity. Collaboration. Anti-Racism. People-Centered. Transparency. These values drive our public health work and shape how we support and empower our employees every day. Through our policies, programs, and services, we strive to eliminate health disparities based on race, ethnicity, income, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and neighborhood. We support residents and families with over 40 programs and services that meet community needs across our neighborhoods and lifespan, including accessible community-based health and social services; community engagement and advocacy; health-promoting policies and regulations; disease and injury prevention; emergency services; and health promotion and education services. We are equally committed to investing in our people by fostering an inclusive and empowering work environment where everyone can grow, contribute and make an impact. As the nation's oldest health department, with roots dating back to 1799, our work has evolved from the needs of then to the needs of now. We provide and support accessible, high-quality community-based health services and programming, education and resources to build a healthy Boston. We are a group of dedicated neighbors and community members ready to meet the moment and deliver a safer, healthier Boston for our residents. Join us and grow your career in a workplace that values innovation, equity, and professional development. Explore career opportunities at careers.bphc.org.
About the Role
  • Works as part of the Mental Health and Social Services team Provides clinical assessment, referral and placement services to homeless guests entering emergency shelter who report, or present with signs of, mental illness.
  • Completes Mental Health Triage assessments on new shelter guests to determine immediate level of need.
  • Identifies high-risk behaviors in new guests and provides direct crisis intervention and clinical support to the team.
  • Assertively moves guests on a quick path out of shelter by implementing a diversion plan or making a referral to housing department.
  • Works in collaboration with the Clinicians of the Social Work Department, to ensure that clients presenting with acute mental health symptoms are assessed for the most appropriate services and/or referral.
  • Assists guests with DMH eligibility applications and, in collaboration with the Social Work Department, coordinates DMH services for clients including outreach services from the Homeless Outreach Team of DMH.
  • Works in collaboration with the Recovery Services Bureau for placement into substance abuse and dual-diagnosis treatment if needed.
  • Collaborates with external social services agencies and acts as liaison to hospitals, mental health facilities and inpatient/outpatient programs.
  • Responsible for providing referrals to psychiatric care and providing follow-up on hospitalized guests to coordinate appropriate discharge plans.
  • Develops and maintains referral sources for homeless guests by establishing contacts and working in collaboration with area social services agencies.
  • Works closely with all internal departments in order to coordinate and facilitate services.
  • Maintains up to date and accurate progress notes and records for the department, including HMIS.
  • Assists in compiling records and statistical reports.
  • Attends assigned meetings and trainings.
  • Provides psycho-educational groups to guests and staff.
Qualifications
  • Enrollment in an accredited Master of Social Work of Master of Counseling Psychology degree program.
  • Foundational clinical skills and understanding of mental health and dual-diagnosis issues.
  • Experience working with diverse ethnic, racial and economic populations required. Prior experience with homelessness and substance abuse is helpful.
  • Familiarity w/ DMH eligibility determination and services helpful.
  • Knowledge of Boston area social services and mental health agencies helpful.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in interdisciplinary team environment.
  • Bi-Lingual Spanish speaking helpful.
  • CORI required.
Key Skills
Clinical assessmentCrisis interventionMental health triageSocial workCase managementReferral coordinationSubstance abuse counselingDual-diagnosis treatmentDocumentationInterdisciplinary collaborationPsycho-educational groupsCommunication skillsOrganizational skillsHMIS
Categories
Social ServicesHealthcare