Master of Social Work Internship Program

Program Overview:

The Mitigation Unit supports the Public Defender’s mission by providing inclusive services to clients both in and out of custody. We strive to shine a light on our client’s inherent dignity within the eyes of the legal system. Social workers contribute to legal defense by providing alternatives to incarceration, linkage to community services, and documenting a client’s life story.

Training:

  • Social work interns will maintain a caseload
  • Receive individual supervision
  • Evaluate and recommend potential alternatives to incarceration
  • Gathers and analyzes records
  • Evaluates social, physical, and mental functioning of clients through interviews and evidence-based practices.
  • Interviews clients and collateral sources
  • Establishes and maintains connections with community- based programs

Program details:

  • Weekly 1 hour individual supervision provided
  • 9 month commitment, depending on the training requirements of the student’s university
  • Minimum of 16 hours per week of availability, depending on the training requirements of the student’s university

To apply for an MSW internship position please send an email to: 

Michelle Wilson – michellee.wilson@ventura.org

Natalie Aguilera – natalie.aguilera@ventura.org

Suggested Application Times:

  • Academic year 2024-2025-applications closed
  • Academic year 2025-2026-accepting applications from January through March of 2025