Phoenix House Fieldwork InternshipAt — Phoenix House

Fieldwork students and volunteers will spend time at the residential facility in Santa Ana providing support in several areas: client coordination, behavioral coaching, assisting operations staff, and supporting the intake/reception teams. Students and volunteers will have opportunities to observe treatment functions, such as group services, shadow counselors and therapists, and learn about programming and contractual obligations common to substance abuse and mental health treatment.

Students and volunteers will commit to 5-10 hours weekly at regular times, and maintain regular contact with a supervising staff.

Risk Management note:

The site has indicated that students may with individuals who have a criminal background or a history of physical violence. The site has provided the following mitigation details:

1. Staff to client ratios are maintained at all times. Security cameras monitor areas where the students will operate.
2. All staff are trained in deescalation strategies.
3. Students will be provided orientations on safety protocols. Students will be with staff at all times and may optionally participate in training for themselves.
4. No violence or threatening behavior by clients is tolerated in the community and is responded to rapidly should it occur. Clients who have a significant history of violent or other types of serious offense are not eligible for admission into the program.

Though many of our clients have a history of violent conduct, instances of violence by clients toward staff are extremely rare (less than 1 per 2 years).

Collaborating with admissions team on intakes. Observing and cofacilitating treatment groups. Assisting with daily operations of a treatment facility.

Training:

All students and volunteers will undergo a basic orientation, will be able to participate in regular staff training activities that occur bi-weekly, be able to collaborate with certified AOD counselors and graduate-level therapists, will shadow various staff in the facility, and will receive direct one-on-one and group supervision.

Learning Outcomes:

Identify fundamental concepts of substance abuse treatment.
Identify common challenges faced in the delivery of substance abuse and mental health treatment.
Interact effectively with clients in mental health and substance abuse settings.
Demonstrate understanding of the basic elements of many types of document necessary to behavioral health treatment.