Psychology internships vary in level and purpose, and should be chosen based on appropriateness for training level, career goals, and individual resources. Evaluation of individual programs is important, and interviews should be seen as a two-way street. Resources such as books and licensing organizations can provide helpful tips.
A psychology internship refers to various types of preparatory work environments suitable for some, but not all levels of preparation. Before graduate school, some people complete internships of varying lengths and locations. They can be useful for students who want to create more competitive graduate applications. Other internships are divided into predoctoral or postdoctoral studies, and they can offer a variety of different approaches that help people determine the best ones. Considerations that people may want to have in all of this are: appropriateness of training level, degree of match with career goals, and individual resources such as compensation, supervision, and support.
Appropriateness for training level is important when evaluating a psychology internship. People need to identify programs they are qualified for and should not waste time applying to programs they are under- or over-prepared for. An internship can have multiple purposes, and where this can be most important is when people are trying to complete the hours required for licensure. Generally, this is for postdoctoral students only, and students should verify that any internship they consider provides the necessary levels of supervision and is approved by their region’s psychology licensing board.
Regardless of educational level, it is naturally prudent to try to choose internship programs that suit your career or study interests. Undergraduate students may have more flexibility because they can pursue an internship to determine what their interests are. Predoctoral students taking time off before writing a dissertation may want to gain experience primarily in the area in which they plan to write dissertations, and internships can inform further research. Those at the doctoral level should probably choose work conditions where they can practice what they’ll be doing once they’re licensed. Those interested in counseling would like to advise people as much as possible on an internship.
Psychology internship programs should also be evaluated individually. Factors such as scholarship, location, and hours should be considered when selecting a psychology internship.
Any interview for a psychology internship should also be seen as a two-way street. During the interview, try to verify that the team is running a program that will be beneficial, and not glorified secretarial work. Figuring out this question can be difficult, and it can be helpful to get a list of people who have completed internships in the past and talk to them about their experiences. All people look for the most supportive environments where they can learn and use these skills to do their work later, and therefore it is vital that any team be supportive in this endeavor.
There are some books on how to get a psychology internship that might be helpful. Licensing organizations also have tips. This can suggest what internships to look for and advise on how to succeed in intern hiring.
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