Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Program Internships
Brief description of program & Patients Served: DBT is a treatment designed specifically for individuals with self-harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts and actions and other behaviors that get in the way of having a life worth living. We serve clients with varied diagnoses including; borderline personality disorder, other axis II disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, addictions, PTSD and anxiety disorders. Clients are seen in weekly 1:1 therapy and weekly 2 hour DBT skills training for a period of one year. Clients come from varied backgrounds, socioeconomic status and life circumstances.
Internship Training Goals: Interns will learn and participate in the full scope of DBT practice including: assessments, treatment planning, individual therapy, group facilitation, coordination with other health care providers, phone coaching and DBT consultation team. Interns will participate in several DBT skills training groups, both adult and adolescent, weekly. Initially this will be in the observation role then will be co-facilitating mindfulness exercises, homework review and teaching of skills. Once interns have learned DBT therapy they will have several of their own individual clients. Interns will participate in DBT team consultation as a member weekly and will also have the opportunity to facilitate meetings. Interns will learn how to DBT phone coach and will practice coaching individuals on skills.
Length of internship and requirements:
- Length and weekly schedule requirements: DBT internships are 9 months, usually beginning in September and finishing in May. We require that DBT interns be present at their internship site for 20 hours/week.
- Attend weekly DBT staff case consultation meetings
- Attend weekly supervision session with assigned supervisor, who is a licensed clinical mental health professional
- Attend the monthly Internship Cohort Meeting from 12:00pm – 1:30pm on the third Tuesday of each month
- Attend three one-hour long video Continuing Education Units (CEU’s) each month at Nystrom & Associates, Ltd.
- Educational degree: students must be pursuing a master’s degree in either social work, marriage and family therapy or psychology at an accredited university
We are looking for individuals with prior experience in the mental health field, whether prior practicum, or life experience.
Locations of Internship: All Minnesota Locations accept interns in DBT
Application Process:
- We accept applications throughout the entire year on an ongoing basis, but it is recommended that interns apply 6 months in advance of when he/she would be looking to start his/her internship as internships are offered on a first come, first serve basis and based on location/supervisor availability.
- To apply: submit your cover letter and resume to: humanresources@nystromcounseling.com. Specify in your cover letter which internship program you are applying to, when you would like your internship to begin and which Nystrom & Associates, Ltd. locations you would be interested in conducting your internship. Also, send your school’s specific internship requirements.