1 answer
Kylaiah
Student
Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
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What would be the best course of action for looking for Psychology Internships/Part-time Job?
I want to be a Child Psychologist or Marriage/Family Therapist and I want to find a way to implement myself into the field to build connections and gain experience.
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1 answer
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1401
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Kylaiah,
You’re thinking about this at exactly the right time, and more importantly, in the right way. Right now, the goal is to intentionally place yourself in settings where you may gain experience, skills, and contacts rather than merely "get a psychology internship."
First, it's important to realise that there tend to be few genuine "psychology internships," particularly clinical ones, available at the undergraduate level. Targeting adjacent roles that nonetheless provide you with relevant exposure is, therefore, the best course of action. Start with settings that prioritise people, particularly those that involve families or children. For instance:
- Daycares, after-school programs, or youth centers
- Summer camps or mentoring programs
- Community organizations focused on family support
- Behavioral therapy centers (some hire aides or assistants)
These positions may not be classified as "psychology," but they develop the same abilities you'll require: patience, emotional awareness, communication, and observation.
Next, make use of Penn State's academic resources. Check the following:
- Your career services portal for internships and part-time roles
- Psychology department boards or emails
- Professors or advisors (some may have research or field opportunities)
You might also look into jobs as a research assistant. They improve your profile for graduate school and aid in your scientific understanding of behaviour, even if they are not clinical.
Intentional networking is an additional effective step. Contact (even through LinkedIn or email):
- School counselors
- Child psychologists
- Marriage and family therapists
Ask simple questions like, “What advice would you give someone trying to enter this field?” These conversations often lead to opportunities you won’t find posted online.
If you want a clear action plan:
- Apply for 2–3 relevant part-time or volunteer roles (youth-focused if possible)
- Check campus opportunities weekly
- Reach out to at least one professional or professor per week
- Build consistency; stay in one role long enough to actually learn
One important mentality change is to stop waiting for the "ideal" psychology job title. Concentrate on gaining meaningful experience with people, particularly in environments that match your interest in families and children. You’re not behind; you’re building your entry point. And if you stay consistent with this approach, you’ll stand out strongly when it’s time for grad school or more specialized roles.
Best wishes!
You’re thinking about this at exactly the right time, and more importantly, in the right way. Right now, the goal is to intentionally place yourself in settings where you may gain experience, skills, and contacts rather than merely "get a psychology internship."
First, it's important to realise that there tend to be few genuine "psychology internships," particularly clinical ones, available at the undergraduate level. Targeting adjacent roles that nonetheless provide you with relevant exposure is, therefore, the best course of action. Start with settings that prioritise people, particularly those that involve families or children. For instance:
- Daycares, after-school programs, or youth centers
- Summer camps or mentoring programs
- Community organizations focused on family support
- Behavioral therapy centers (some hire aides or assistants)
These positions may not be classified as "psychology," but they develop the same abilities you'll require: patience, emotional awareness, communication, and observation.
Next, make use of Penn State's academic resources. Check the following:
- Your career services portal for internships and part-time roles
- Psychology department boards or emails
- Professors or advisors (some may have research or field opportunities)
You might also look into jobs as a research assistant. They improve your profile for graduate school and aid in your scientific understanding of behaviour, even if they are not clinical.
Intentional networking is an additional effective step. Contact (even through LinkedIn or email):
- School counselors
- Child psychologists
- Marriage and family therapists
Ask simple questions like, “What advice would you give someone trying to enter this field?” These conversations often lead to opportunities you won’t find posted online.
If you want a clear action plan:
- Apply for 2–3 relevant part-time or volunteer roles (youth-focused if possible)
- Check campus opportunities weekly
- Reach out to at least one professional or professor per week
- Build consistency; stay in one role long enough to actually learn
One important mentality change is to stop waiting for the "ideal" psychology job title. Concentrate on gaining meaningful experience with people, particularly in environments that match your interest in families and children. You’re not behind; you’re building your entry point. And if you stay consistent with this approach, you’ll stand out strongly when it’s time for grad school or more specialized roles.
Best wishes!