EWC’s Internship Program
Why We Started the EWC Internship Program
In January 2025, Exceptional Wellness Counseling proudly launched its Internship Program – a milestone that reflects our deep commitment to cultivating the next generation of mental health professionals. This initiative is more than a training opportunity; it’s a core part of our mission to elevate the quality of care in our community.
Our CEO and visionary leader, Lisa Hillman, MSW, LCSW, CP, has long been passionate about fostering professional growth and empowering emerging clinicians. For years, Lisa has envisioned a program that not only provides hands-on clinical experience but also immerses interns in a supportive, values-driven culture – one that encourages continual self-reflection, ethical practice, and compassionate care.
Through this internship program, EWC’s vision comes to life: creating a nurturing environment where interns develop both clinical expertise and the personal insight necessary to become outstanding therapists who truly transform lives.
Program Objectives
Our internship program is designed to:
- Provide Practical Experience – Apply classroom learning in real-world clinical settings, developing skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning.
- Enhance Professional Development – Build competencies in client engagement, ethical practice, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.
- Contribute to Practice Growth – Integrate into our team, offering fresh perspectives and helping expand our impact.
- Increase Access to Care – Through our internship program, we are able to offer free or reduced-cost sessions to individuals and families who have no insurance or are covered by Medicaid.
Program Structure
Duration & Schedule
- Practicum: 10 hours/week for 10–12 weeks (flexible to accommodate academic needs)
- Internship: 16-20 hours/week for 10–12 weeks (flexible to accommodate academic needs)
- Extensions possible by mutual agreement
Supervision & Training
- Weekly supervision by a licensed mental health professional certified in clinical supervision
- Ongoing opportunities for learning on ethical practice, advanced therapeutic techniques, and case management
Responsibilities
- Conduct intake assessments and client interviews
- Develop and implement treatment plans
- Participate in client sessions under supervision
- Attend team meetings and case conferences
- Assist with research and program development
Qualifications
Applicants should:
- Be enrolled in a graduate program in professional counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy
- Have completed foundational mental health counseling coursework
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Be able to work collaboratively in a team setting
- Commit to ethical practice and client confidentiality
Benefits for Interns
- Hands-On Experience – Work with diverse clinical cases and apply counseling theories in practice
- Professional Mentorship – Receive guidance from experienced mental health professionals
- Networking Opportunities – Connect with EWC staff and the wider professional community
- Community Impact – Provide affordable, high-quality counseling to those who might not otherwise have access to care
Benefits for EWC
- Enhanced Service Capacity – Serve more clients effectively
- Fresh Perspectives – Gain innovative ideas from emerging professionals
- Contribution to the Field – Help shape the next generation of therapists
Application Process
Please submit:
- A cover letter describing your interest in the internship and your career goals
- A current resume or CV
- Contact information for two academic or professional references
Evaluation & Feedback
Interns receive ongoing feedback plus formal evaluations at the midpoint and end of the program to support professional growth and skill development.
For more information or to apply:
Ashley Lobbato, LCSW
Executive Director, Exceptional Wellness Counseling
Email: alobbato@exceptionalwellnesscounseling.com