Today’s article was written by Felice C. Pope, MA, MS a career counselor that has a passion for helping others find that perfect internship or employment opportunity. By the way, for those of you wondering, yes she is related she is my mother.
- Network, Network, Network.
Starting with your graduate advisor and faculty in your program, let people know that you are looking for a paid internship in counseling. Network at meetings, conferences, and workshops with guest speakers. Another great place to start is with professional organizations such as CAMFT, NASW or CALPCC
- Research companies, organizations and agencies online.
Gather information about local therapists and organization, such as types of clients, their specialties or general therapy counseling. Think about what type of experience you want. Look for a placement that will provide you with a good experience.
- Update your resume.
In your objective, include supervision in a specialty or in general therapy. Make sure you also add any trainings that you have attended during the last couple of years.
- Write a cover letter.
Address the letter to a specific person. Give the name who referred you and why you are writing. Summarize your related education and experience. Refer him or her to your resume for more information. Be sure to tell them what skills you will bring to the job. Attributes such as taking ownership of your work, being professional, team player, willing to learn and take on new challenges and willing to write blogs or update social media; all of these a potential employer will appreciate. Conclude with your contact telephone number and email.
- Conduct informational interviews.
To get opinions from, attitudes of and a “feel” for the staff and the organization, arrange to talk with a therapist or other staff, preferably at their office. It is also an opportunity to network.
- Plan your interview attire.
With your business attire, wear minimal accessories, especially gaudy or distracting jewelry. On the day of the interview, do not apply after-shave or perfume since some people are allergic. This should go without saying for professionals but no Pj’s. True story; just say no to them.
- Gather documents to support your qualifications.
Make photocopies of your resume and any correspondence to bring with you at the interview. If you have letters of recommendation include them.
- Prepare answers to commonly asked interview questions.
Review your cover letter and resume and be able to briefly summarize your education and experience. Be prepared also to ask questions about the practice, the staff, and supervision. Read the company’s website and know the clients they see. Read the reviews if there are any the more you know what the company and its people the better.
- Network, Network, Network Squared.
Continue contacting people who know people who can help you. Collect business cards with names, titles and contact information and the same information for the referred person. Make sure you correctly spell names and other information. Write on the back where you met them and day or event reference that in your letter if you are sending one.
- After the Interview, send a Thank You.
Within 24 hours, send a brief, handwritten note or a typed letter.
If you would like more information on this topic a short, Informative Guide: Success and Career Counseling Services can be obtained on this Therapistbox.com. Look under products, it’s free for the taking.
A Guide for Success to Interviewing is now available. For further assistance, in the area of interviewing, job prep or career counseling, you may make an online person appointment with Felice Pope, M.A, M.S. @ 951-778-0230
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