Program Information Our agency offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary learning environment that prepares social work practicum students for professional practice in integrated behavioral health and recovery services. Located in rural Redding, our clinic serves Native Americans and the Medi-Cal population through a client-centered model of care. Students will have the opportunity to learn within a collaborative tribal health system, specifically in the recovery clinic which includes Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) providers, licensed clinical therapists, substance use disorder counselors, case management services, Recovery support groups, harm reduction programming, and traditional Native American health and cultural practices. Our program also operates an all-day syringe services program, providing students with direct exposure to evidence-based harm reduction approaches and community outreach services.
Students who are most successful in our agency are adaptable, compassionate, self-aware, and eager to learn in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment. Because our clinic serves individuals in active addiction, recovery, crisis, and complex social circumstances, students should be comfortable working in settings that can at times feel unpredictable or emotionally intense. Additionally students should have flexibility and comfort with both structured and unstructured days and the ability to remain calm, professional, and nonjudgmental in chaotic or high-acuity situations.
Students placed within our agency may encounter situations common to community behavioral health, substance use treatment, and harm reduction settings. Students should be prepared for exposure to complex clinical and social situations. Potential considerations and risks may include: Interactions with clients experiencing active substance use, intoxication, withdrawal symptoms, or behavioral health crises. Occasional exposure to loud, emotionally escalated, or verbally aggressive behavior. Exposure to individuals experiencing suicidal ideation, severe mental health symptoms, trauma responses, or crisis situations. Exposure to high-risk behaviors associated with substance use and homelessness. Presence of used syringes or other biohazard materials within harm reduction and syringe services settings.