Student Therapy Practicum
Sex Offender Treatment Program
Open to Graduate Students
Location: Minnesota Correctional Facility - Lino Lakes
MCF-Lino Lakes is a medium custody facility for adult males. Incarcerated persons are typically transferred from the state's higher-security facilities. MCF-LL is also an admission facility for supervised release violators. MCF-LL also operates minimum-security and work release units that are located outside the secure perimeter. The Sex Offender Treatment Program (SOTP) serves 270 program participants, many of whom have co-morbid disorders including chemical dependency, traumatic brain injury, mental illness, developmental disabilities, etc. In conjunction with sex offender specific treatment, SOTP offers chemical dependency programming for incarcerated persons with dual needs and specialized release planning services for participants preparing to return to the community.
Internship Description: There are two primary internship options for Master's level students. One option is for the student to function primarily as a program therapist. The student would co-facilitate therapy groups and psych-educational classes for clients in SOTP, provide individual counseling and family therapy as assigned, and document pertinent case notes, treatment plans, and summaries. A second option for a student is to function primarily as a release planner. The student would provide transitional and release planning services for clients in SOTP preparing to be released into the community. At times SOTP has also offered doctorate level internships as well.
Supervision: Interns will be assigned to a Licensed Psychologist, Senior Therapist or Program Supervisor.
Requirements: Interns must be currently enrolled in an accredited college or university seeking a Master's degree or higher. All interns must pass a criminal background check, provide verification of mantoux test, and complete the two week DOC orientation at central office in St. Paul held in August.
Length of Internship: Academic school year (fall to spring). Students are expected to be on site a minimum of 20 hours per week and a minimum total of 600 hours, usually for the duration of the academic year; September through May. Program hours are from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday. Selected students arrange days and hours within the program hours with their primary clinical supervisor.
Application priority deadline date: For academic year beginning in Fall Terms and for all Summer Terms, the application process will open January 1st and end March 15th. Applications received by February 15th will be given first consideration. All other applications will be considered after the March 15th deadline. Interviews will be scheduled after February 15th. Selection decisions will be completed by April 15th. For internships beginning with Winter/Spring terms, the application process will open October 1st and end November 1st. Interviews will be scheduled in November. Selection decisions will be completed by December 1st.
Note: This internship is unpaid
How to Apply:
Behavioral Health Internship and Practicum Application (smartsheet.com)
Please direct questions to Internships.DOC@state.mn.us
