Psychology Internship

Position Title: Psychology Intern
Department: Resident Services / Connections Department
Reports To: Connections Director
Duration: 8 weeks
Hours: Part time Fall internship
Type: Unpaid

Position Summary:

We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Psychology Intern to join our team at Juniper Village at Spearly Center, a skilled nursing facility dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults. The intern will gain supervised, hands-on experience working with senior residents, supporting their emotional and psychological well-being, and learning about geriatric mental health care in a residential setting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in conducting wellness check-ins under supervision.
• Observe and support individual and group activity sessions.
• Help develop and facilitate wellness and cognitive stimulation activities (e.g., memory games, reminiscence therapy).
• Provide companionship and active listening to residents to reduce feelings of isolation.
• Create activities to support mental wellness for the residents
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and case discussions.
• Maintain resident confidentiality and uphold ethical guidelines as outlined by APA and facility policy.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the psychological and emotional needs of the elderly population.
• Gain insight into geriatric depression, anxiety, dementia, grief, and end-of-life care.
• Learn the role of mental health professionals in a long-term care environment.
• Develop professional communication and documentation skills.
• Practice empathy, cultural sensitivity, and active listening in a clinical setting.

Qualifications:

• Current enrollment in a Bachelor's or Master’s program in Psychology, Gerontology, Social Work, or a related field.
• Strong interest in aging, mental health, and community-based care.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Must pass background checks and meet facility health requirements (e.g., TB test, vaccination status).

Benefits:

• Supervised clinical experience in a real-world setting.
• Opportunity to contribute to the well-being of seniors.
• Professional development and mentorship.
• Letter of recommendation upon successful completion.

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