Internships and Practicums

Professional Training Programs

The Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS), along with Milwaukee County, is a catalyst for change, leading the way as an outstanding example of partnership, collaboration and inspiration.

A part of DHHS, we have been working closely with educational institutions in providing internships, practicums, and field placements for undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate trainees. Our training opportunities include an array of experiences throughout DHHS. As programs continue to expand, our focus is to ensure trainees are gaining the experience and knowledge to help clients and improve the health of our community. Furthermore, we aim to increase the quality and quantity of a highly trained workforce.

“What I found most beneficial about this practicum was being able to interact with the patients on the unit in a casual, natural way. Being able to approach patients while they were sitting in common areas while on the unit, introduce myself to them, and build rapport with them was really helpful. I also had at least one opportunity to talk with a patient in somewhat of a crisis situation after I had built rapport with her over the course of her hospitalization, this was a very meaningful experience for me (I believe for the patient, too).”

- Brooke Lewis (WSPP) Psychology Practicum

“My primary experience of working with the CARS intake team on assessments was as rewarding as expected, really helping to round out my practical assessment skill set. Getting connected with Criminal Justice System Diversion Liaison was surprisingly excellent in bringing ethical issues, critical analysis in regard to diagnosis, appropriate treatment based off contextual life factors, and options in the community. The assessments I conducted for the Liaison were meaningful and needed, and my participation in Mental Health court was invaluable for my learning.”

- Adam Haggerty (Alverno College) Professional Counseling

“Gaining practicum experience both on the Child/Adolescent inpatient unit and as a part of CMCT, even if the inpatient experience was brief. I would recommend that students who are interested in both experiences share their interest and advocate for some time with both practicum opportunities. Also, taking advantage of the suggestions that supervisors provide during your experience that will complement the practicum experience you anticipated. For example, presenting or attending Brown Bag presentations, going with clinicians to complete assessments/interviews with families, and taking cases in detention or going with clinicians for assessments/interviews.”

- Lissandra Lopez (WSPP) Psychology Practicum

“I found the most beneficial was processing home visits with Jill and Rebecca post home visits to improve my clinical reasoning and solidify knowledge of mental health setting, especially for legal and local Milwaukee County Resources. Some of the trainings on HealthStream with Dr. Thrasher were also helpful in explaining these concepts in different ways.”

- Sara Nesbit (UWM) Occupational Therapy