Welcome
Our comprehensive internship program is designed for Master's-level students in Counseling, Social Work, and related fields. We are committed to developing skilled and compassionate professionals and typically host 6-12 interns. We proudly partner with various institutions, including the University of Maryland, Johns Hopkins, the University of Michigan, Bowie State University, The Chicago School (D.C. Campus), and Liberty University, among many others.
About Our Program and Clinical Experience
This internship integrates academic learning with hands-on clinical practice in our Outpatient Mental Health Clinic (OMHC) structure. Interns work with diverse clients (children to older adults) and various diagnoses.
Participants achieve greater independence, stronger self-confidence, improved functioning (school/work), enhanced emotional regulation, healthier relationships, and essential life skills for stability.
We strengthen crucial real-life abilities, including emotional regulation, social skills, time management, self-care, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Support for community integration through recreational/social activities, educational support, job readiness, volunteer exploration, and structured outings.
Our structured journey includes a comprehensive assessment, a personalized care plan, weekly skill-building sessions, regular progress monitoring, and collaborative care with other providers.
We offer person-centered, strength-based support from highly trained, compassionate staff. Our program is flexible, accessible, integrated with your wider care team, and provided in a safe, supportive, culturally responsive environment using evidence-based practices.
Services are delivered in-home, community-based, or via telehealth in Anne Arundel, Prince George's, Montgomery, and Washington counties, Maryland.
Direct Therapy: Provide individual, group, and family therapy.
Assessment & Diagnosis: Conduct mental health assessments/diagnoses (requiring DSM-5-TR knowledge).
Case Management: Develop treatment plans, monitor progress, and run independent client sessions.
Support Services: Handle crisis intervention and navigate community resources.
Services are provided at our clinic locations in Laurel and Hagerstown, as well as within Anne Arundel County Schools. This is a site-based internship, meaning we do not offer Telehealth placements.
Client interactions primarily take place in school or office settings. Our typical hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM, though the schedule may vary based on service needs.
For interns in the Laurel area, the goal is to provide a mix of experiences in both school and office settings. Interns in Hagerstown will primarily work in our office and community settings, in addition to Telehealth.
Interns are held to the same rigorous standards as staff, receiving the same thorough orientation and training.
Weekly Individual Supervision: One hour with a licensed mental health professional.
Group Supervision: Learning opportunities with staff and other interns.
Professional Development: Access to workshops and free CE seminars in partnership with The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Mentorship: Access to Lead Clinicians and staff for additional support.
Requirements:
Enrollment in the practicum or internship phase of a Master’s program in Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
Commitment to ethical, strong interpersonal, and professional skills.
Highly motivated, organized, and dedicated approach, with the independence required for experiential learning.
Demonstrates flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances, different supervisory approaches, and coordinating scheduling requirements.
Commitment Expectations:
Counseling Interns: Expected to commit to both practicum and internship experiences.
Social Work Interns: May complete first and second years in different settings (clinic vs. school), if desired and permitted by their institution.
Why Choose Innovative Therapeutic Services for Your Internship?
-
Gain significant clinical experience in a supportive environment.
-
Receive personalized mentorship from seasoned professionals.
-
Prepare comprehensively for licensure and a rewarding long-term career.
-
Make a meaningful contribution through valuable community work.
-
We offer dedicated support through the national licensing exam and state licensure process to ensure a successful transition to a licensed clinician.
-
We encourage interns to build a long-term relationship with ITS, offering post-graduation employment opportunities (full-time, part-time, or contractual).
Meet our Internship Program Coordinator
Jennifer Lowery LCPC
Jennifer Lowery, LCPC, serves as the Internship Program Coordinator at Innovative Therapeutic Services, where she leverages over two decades of experience in education and community-based mental health to mentor and guide emerging clinicians. Jennifer is dedicated to providing interns with a comprehensive and nurturing learning experience, helping them to develop strong, compassionate counseling skills. While her primary focus is on coordinating the internship program, she also maintains a small caseload, allowing her to stay connected to clinical practice and ensure her guidance is both practical and impactful. Jennifer’s strength-based, empowering approach to mentorship helps shape the next generation of mental health professionals.
