Pathway Caring for Children is seeking Bachelor’s-level interns for a supervised, for-credit internship supporting children and families through community-based and mental health services. This learning-focused internship mirrors core case management functions while emphasizing observation, skill development, documentation exposure, and professional growth under close supervision.
Interns will work alongside experienced case managers, counselors, and supervisors in a mission-driven nonprofit environment that prioritizes learning, reflection, and ethical practice.
Learning Objectives & Experience
Interns will gain exposure to:
Case management principles within child- and family-serving systems
Trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches
Documentation standards, intake processes, and service coordination
School-based, community-based, and family-centered services
Multidisciplinary teamwork and professional communication
Ethical practice, boundaries, and confidentiality
Reflective supervision and professional development
Responsibilities (Under Supervision)
All intern duties must be completed under supervision. Interns may not carry an independent caseload or provide unsupervised services.
Interns may:
Shadow staff during client interactions, meetings, and program activities
Assist with intake paperwork, documentation preparation, and file organization
Observe service planning, goal development, and care coordination
Participate in group activities, workshops, and program events
Support school-based or community initiatives as appropriate
Attend team meetings, trainings, and weekly supervision
Complete university learning contract requirements
What You’ll Gain
Real-world exposure to child welfare and community mental health
Case management–adjacent experience appropriate for bachelor-level learners
Weekly supervision and professional mentoring
Skill development to support graduate school or entry-level roles
Insight into nonprofit operations and multidisciplinary collaboration
ODJFS Compliance & Supervision Requirements
This internship position is intended as a supervised learning experience and does not replace paid staff positions.
The intern will not be used to replace paid staff and will not be counted toward staffing requirements.
The intern will not have sole responsibility for the daily care or supervision of children and will perform all duties under the direct supervision of designated agency staff.
A written internship agreement / learning contract between the placing school and Pathway Caring for Children must be completed prior to the start of the internship.
The intern must successfully complete all required background checks prior to placement, in accordance with applicable ODJFS rules and agency policy.
The intern must follow all agency policies related to confidentiality (HIPAA as applicable), professional boundaries, mandated reporting, and ethical conduct.
Enrolled in a bachelor’s or associate degree program in Social Work, Psychology, Human Development, Counseling, or related field
Internship must be for academic credit
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Professional, reliable, and eager to learn
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
Background check required prior to placement
