Social Work Internship (Fall 2026)

Selfhelp; New York (NY); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Full time

Job summary

Selfhelp is looking for a Master of Social Work Intern to support older adult clients in New York under the guidance of a certified Social Worker. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, advocating for clients, and assisting with applications for benefits.

The intern will engage in home visits, maintain case notes, and participate in group activities. This role offers valuable experience in social work across multiple programs aimed at supporting aging populations.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to advocate on behalf of clients.
• Understanding of social work principles and practices.

Responsibilities

• Complete home visits and assist clients during office visits.
• Conduct intakes and provide referrals.
• Advocate and arrange for provision of services.

Job description

Position Summary

Under the supervision of a Seminar in Field Instruction (SIFI)-certified Social Worker, the Master of Social Work Intern is responsible for providing support and assistance to older adult clients in New York.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Complete home visits, assist clients during office visits, and over the phone.
2. Conduct intakes, provide accurate information, and referrals.
3. Screen and assist clients with applications and re-certifications for entitlements and benefits.
4. Assess clients in their home, hospital, or other institutional settings, as appropriate.
5. Advocate on behalf of clients and arrange for provision of services; develop, implement, and follow-up on care plans.
6. Provide supportive counseling to clients as needed.
7. Maintain ongoing communication with client, family members, and other collaterals, as appropriate.
8. Complete accurate case notes utilizing the program’s data system; prepare required documentation in case file within organizational time frames.
9. Report on statistics according to Selfhelp standards, as well as NYC Department for the Aging, utilizing the program’s data system and other forms of record keeping, as needed.
10. Actively participate in supervision and staff meetings and share any emergent issues with supervisor in a timely manner.
11. Attend trainings and participate in meetings with other community agencies.
12. Facilitate and assist at social, recreational, and other group activities and events.

The above responsibilities reflect the general responsibilities and principal functions of the internship as identified and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all work requirements. The responsibilities will vary according to the department to which the intern is placed: Case Management, Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORC), Community Guardian Program (CGP), Older Adult Centers (OAC), Selfhelp Active Services for Aging Model (SHASAM), Holocaust Survivor Program (HSP), and Virtual Senior Center (VSC).