Clinical Internship Program
For Graduate Students
Training Future Identity-Affirming Therapists
Are you a graduate student seeking a dynamic and supportive clinical internship? At Divergent Minds Collective, we are committed to providing an exceptional training experience focused on building competency in identity-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, and gender-affirming care. We invite you to join our mission to create a new generation of skilled, ethical, and compassionate therapists ready to serve diverse and often underserved communities.
Our program is more than just a place to get your hours; it's a foundation for your professional identity.
Rooted in a developmental, systemic, and relational framework, we adapt our supervision to meet you where you are. Our AAMFT-Approved supervisor, Dr. Rachel Hughes, is dedicated to helping you integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills. You'll learn to move beyond just "what happened" in a session to a deeper understanding of "how and why it happened" through a reflective and supportive process.
Our Internship Philosophy
"Let's build your unique therapy voice together."
- Dr. Rachel Hughes
Why Choose Our Program?
AAMFT-Approved Supervision
Identity-affirming care focus
Developmental approach to supervision
Support for diverse theoretical orientations
Emphasis on reflective practice
Work with diverse, underserved populations
What You'll Learn: Core Competencies & Skills
Our curriculum is designed to help you build a cohesive theory of change and a strong professional identity
Identity-Affirming Care
Offering validating and culturally humble care to individuals and families from a broad range of backgrounds and identities
Assessment & Treatment Planning
Using the latest DSM to conduct assessments and create effective, client-centered treatment plans that align with your theoretical framework
Intervention Skills
Developing a diverse set of therapeutic skills that you can confidently apply with a varied caseload
Ethical & Legal Practices
Navigating ethical dilemmas and understanding the legal requirements of providing mental health care in Washington State
Crisis Management
Addressing crisis situations with a supportive supervisor in a way that lines up with your theory of change
Professional Development
Building your professional identity and developing your unique therapeutic voice and approach
Internship Requirements
To ensure a productive and safe learning environment for everyone, we require that all interns:
1. Current Enrollment
Must be currently enrolled in a master's or doctoral program in a mental health field
2. Time Commitment
Can commit to at least a 6-month internship, with 9- and 12-month placements being most common
3. Professional Liability Insurance
Must maintain your own professional liability insurance throughout the duration of the internship
4. HIPAA & Confidentiality
Adhere to our strict HIPAA and confidentiality protocols, including the exclusive use of our secure EHR system, SimplePractice
Ready to Apply?
Join us in creating the next generation of identity-affirming, skilled, and compassionate therapists.
Have questions? Reach out to discuss the internship program and application process.