What are the responsibilities and job description for the Psychology Internship position at Juniper Communities?
Juniper Communities is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
Position Title: Psychology Intern
Department: Resident Services / Connections Department
Reports To: Connections Director
Duration: 8 weeks
Hours: Part time Fall internship
Type: Unpaid
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Psychology Intern to join our team at Juniper Village at Spearly Center, a skilled nursing facility dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults. The intern will gain supervised, hands-on experience working with senior residents, supporting their emotional and psychological well-being, and learning about geriatric mental health care in a residential setting.
Key Responsibilities
Position Title: Psychology Intern
Department: Resident Services / Connections Department
Reports To: Connections Director
Duration: 8 weeks
Hours: Part time Fall internship
Type: Unpaid
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Psychology Intern to join our team at Juniper Village at Spearly Center, a skilled nursing facility dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults. The intern will gain supervised, hands-on experience working with senior residents, supporting their emotional and psychological well-being, and learning about geriatric mental health care in a residential setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in conducting wellness check-ins under supervision.
- Observe and support individual and group activity sessions.
- Help develop and facilitate wellness and cognitive stimulation activities (e.g., memory games, reminiscence therapy).
- Provide companionship and active listening to residents to reduce feelings of isolation.
- Create activities to support mental wellness for the residents
- Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and case discussions.
- Maintain resident confidentiality and uphold ethical guidelines as outlined by APA and facility policy.
- Understand the psychological and emotional needs of the elderly population.
- Gain insight into geriatric depression, anxiety, dementia, grief, and end-of-life care.
- Learn the role of mental health professionals in a long-term care environment.
- Develop professional communication and documentation skills.
- Practice empathy, cultural sensitivity, and active listening in a clinical setting.
- Current enrollment in a Bachelor's or Master’s program in Psychology, Gerontology, Social Work, or a related field.
- Strong interest in aging, mental health, and community-based care.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Must pass background checks and meet facility health requirements (e.g., TB test, vaccination status).
- Supervised clinical experience in a real-world setting.
- Opportunity to contribute to the well-being of seniors.
- Professional development and mentorship.
- Letter of recommendation upon successful completion.
