Mental health internship: How to make the most of your experience

An internship program is an exciting step in your journey toward becoming a mental health professional. You’re finally stepping out of the classroom and into the real world. It’s a time when you’ll see firsthand how medical specialists work with patients, manage cases, and navigate complex emotional landscapes.

But how do you make sure you’re getting the most out of this great opportunity? Let’s explore some practical tips to help you maximise your internship experience.

Jump into your duties right away

You’re likely excited to get your hands busy from day one. That’s a great mindset to have. Sure, it might feel overwhelming at first, but remember – you’re there to have experiences. So, ask questions, volunteer for tasks, and show initiative. Your preceptor will appreciate your enthusiasm, and you’ll learn so much more by being actively involved.

Also, try shadowing different professionals in your workplace. This could mean sitting in on therapy sessions (with client consent, of course), observing group activities, or even helping with administrative tasks. Each experience will give you valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of working in the wellness centre.

Build meaningful relationships

Mental health internships are the perfect time to start networking – you get to know the clinical residents, your supervisors, and other interns. These connections can be invaluable for future job opportunities, references, or simply as a support system as you navigate your career.

How to build a great relationship? It’s simple. Just take time to chat with people during lunch breaks or after work. Ask about their experiences in the industry, what they love about their job, and any advice they might have for someone like you who’s just starting out. You’ll be surprised at how willing most people are to share their knowledge and insights.

Seek out diverse experiences

Mental health is a vast industry with many different specialties and approaches. So, use your internship as a chance to explore as many of these as possible. If your placement allows it, try to rotate through different departments or work with various client groups.

Who knows? You might discover a passion for working with children that you never knew you had. Perhaps you’ll realise that crisis intervention is where your skills really shine. The more areas you get exposed to, the better equipped you’ll be to choose your future career path.

Develop your clinical skills

While book learning is important, there’s no substitute for hands-on experience when it comes to developing your clinical skills. During client interactions, pay close attention and put the techniques you’ve studied into practice.

Active listening, for instance, is a vital skill in mental health work. So, focus on what clients are saying and what they might be leaving unsaid. Practice reflecting on what you’ve heard and asking open-ended questions, too, to encourage them to explore their thoughts and feelings more thoroughly.

Empathy is another key ability to sharpen. Try to step into the patient’s shoes and see things from their perspective. At the same time, remember to keep professional boundaries in place. It’s a tricky balance, but mastering it can help you provide the best care while staying grounded yourself.

Embrace challenges

You’re bound to face some difficult situations during your internship. And that’s a fact. You may encounter a particularly challenging client or make mistakes in your work. These moments, while uncomfortable, are incredible learning opportunities.

When faced with challenges, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’re still learning. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your seniors or colleagues, too. They’ve likely faced similar situations and can provide valuable advice.

Remember, it’s okay to feel out of your depth sometimes. That’s how growth happens. Each challenge you overcome will help build your confidence and skills as a mental health professional.

Practice self-care

Working in mental health can be emotionally demanding, so building a good self-care routine early on goes a long way. Make time for activities that bring you joy outside of work. Exercise, spend time in nature, or practice mindfulness – whatever helps you recharge.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, reach out for support. Many internship programs provide mental health counselling or mentoring. So, take full advantage of those resources when needed. Keep in mind that prioritising your own health helps you better support others. More importantly, it’ll make you a stronger professional in the long run.

Keep learning

An internship is just the start of your adventure in the mental health industry. So, keep that curiosity alive and be open to new ideas. You can attend any training sessions or workshops and check out the latest research in areas that catch your interest.

Don’t hesitate to ask your supervisors for feedback, too. Their constructive criticism can help you spot areas for improvement and polish your skills. And remember, even the most seasoned mental health pros are always learning and growing.

Final thoughts

So, here you are, entering the field of mental health through an internship. Exciting, right? This opportunity is like a sneak peek into your future career, and it’s an adventure you won’t want to rush.

Take the insights and experiences you’ve gained and use them to fuel your passion. So, go forth with confidence, knowing that you’ve made the most of your mental health internship.

The editorial unit