About Our University Internship Program
Promise of Hope Counseling offers counseling internship opportunities to graduate students from local universities and other educational institutions pursuing careers in counseling, psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, and other behavioral health fields. Our goal is to help emerging clinicians build real-world skills through supervised, hands-on experience in a setting grounded in compassion, professionalism, and evidence-based care.
A Training Experience Built Around Real Client Work
At Promise of Hope, interns are welcomed as part of the clinical team. Under the guidance of licensed and certified supervisors, students gain exposure to a wide range of client needs, including mental health concerns, co-occurring disorders, substance use recovery, and family systems work. We believe strong clinicians are built through structured support, with plenty of opportunities to gain real experience along the way.
Key learning areas may include:
- Mental health counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions
- Substance abuse counseling in outpatient and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) settings
- Group facilitation and psychoeducational curriculum delivery
- Intake, assessment, treatment planning, and clinical documentation
- Family and couples counseling approaches
- Professional ethics, boundaries, and multicultural competence
- Relapse prevention, coping skills, and recovery-oriented care
Internship Opportunities for University Students
We welcome applications from students enrolled in graduate programs aligned with behavioral health and human services, including:
- Counselor Education (Clinical Mental Health Counseling)
- Psychology (Clinical, Counseling, or related tracks)
- Social Work (BSW/MSW)
- Marriage & Family Therapy tracks
- Other graduate programs requiring supervised clinical internship hours
If you’re unsure whether your program qualifies, we’re happy to connect and discuss fit.
What You’ll Experience Here
Interns at Promise of Hope receive a structured, supportive training environment designed to meet academic requirements while helping students grow into confident professionals.
Internship experience includes:
- Regular individual and group supervision with licensed clinicians
- Direct client contact appropriate to training level and program requirements
- Opportunities to observe and co-facilitate sessions before leading independently
- Exposure to both mental health and substance use treatment models
- Feedback focused on skill-building, clinical judgment, and professional identity
- A team culture that values learning, humility, and client dignity
We strive to create a space where interns feel encouraged, equipped, and respected — because taking care of clients starts with taking care of the people learning to serve them.
About Promise of Hope Counseling
Promise of Hope Counseling is a JCAHO-accredited outpatient treatment provider based in Longwood, Florida, serving the greater Orlando area. Our program supports individuals and families through mental health therapy, substance abuse treatment, and court-ordered evaluations. Interns benefit from learning in a setting that integrates structure, compassion, and whole-person care.
Interested in an Internship With Us?
University students interested in completing their internship at Promise of Hope Counseling should begin by speaking with their academic advisor or internship coordinator, then reach out to our office to learn about current openings and placement timelines.
To inquire about internship availability:
- Call our office or submit a contact request
- Include your program, anticipated start date, and required hours
- Our team will follow up about next steps and interview scheduling
Internship FAQ
Do interns work with clients directly?
Yes, interns gradually take on direct client work under supervision, consistent with their academic program’s guidelines and the student’s readiness.
Are hours flexible around classes?
We do our best to accommodate class schedules and required hour blocks, including some evening options.
Is this a paid internship?
Most internships are unpaid and intended to meet academic clinical hour requirements. If stipend opportunities are available, they will be discussed during the interview process.