Doctoral Intern FAQs
Q. What sets K-State apart from other internship sites?
K-State interns have the opportunity to participate in a rotation with our student health center for behavioral health, co-lead interpersonal process groups, and participate in a social justice project. The internship at K-State is multifaceted, and is excellent preparation to become a generalist at a University Counseling Center. Additionally, the culture of the center toward interns is to create a collegial experience so you can be capable and confident as you step into a post-doctoral professional role.
Q. Which characteristics would contribute to being a successful intern at our site?
Because the internship experience can be both challenging and rewarding, characteristics that increase the likelihood of success include: effective time management (balance of duties/requirements and self-care); willingness to work cooperatively with all staff; flexibility; insightfulness, willingness to take risks, vulnerability and ability to acknowledge growth areas; openness to receive feedback in a non-defensive manner; and the ability to explore personal characteristics in the interest of promoting multicultural competence
Q. How does your site focus on diversity?
Keeping in mind that multicultural awareness is an ongoing process, we continue to endeavor to increase our competence in working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Interns have the opportunity to work with multicultural groups across campus via their social justice project. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and social justice here.
Q. What does a typical week look like for an intern?
A typical work week for an intern includes provision of individual and group therapy; three hours of counselor on duty (triage) coverage; participation in seminars, supervision, teaching and outreach presentations; and clinical prep/note writing time.
Q. How are clients assigned to interns?
Randomly, for the most part. CAPS's goal is to make our interns' caseloads a priority when assigning clients because of the need for hours. However, there are restrictions at times. Interns are required to record their sessions, and if clients do not consent to the recording, they cannot meet with an intern. Additionally, if an intern has a specific clinical issue or population they would like to work with, we consider that when scheduling or referring within the agency.
Q. How are supervisors assigned?
Interns are asked to rank their choices of supervisors from the available licensed, permanent staff and provide a brief explanation as to why a particular supervisor would be a good fit. Interns will make selections twice a year; once during orientation in the fall semester and again at the start of the spring semester. Ideally, you will have two supervisors for your case load. You will work with one supervisor for the entire training year, and you will change a supervisor at the start of the spring semester.
Q. What types of assessments and training are offered?
While we provide opportunities for assessment training, including an assessment consultation, we do not often conduct formal assessment batteries. If you're seeking a training site that will sharply hone your assessment skills, we may not be the best fit. We have the opportunity to use multiple assessments, including objective assessmemts. Interns are encouraged to have their clients use symptom inventories, self-exploratory assessments, and personality assessments when clinically indicated. Interns participate in the assessment consultation to learn which assessments are available at the site, when and how those assessments may be helpful, and how to consider cultural factors in considering using evaluations.
Q. What is the dress code for interns?
The dress code for interns, as with the rest of the staff, is typically business casual, and we encourage attire that celebrates gender congruence and cultural values. Casual attire (e.g., casual Friday or on game days to show support for the athletic teams) is welcomed as long as it does not have holes, is dirty, or exposes too much skin.