PESA is thrilled to welcome a new cohort of MSW and BSW interns, marking yet another significant moment for the organization. This year, PESA has 22 Master of Social Work (MSW) interns and 3 Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) interns joining their ranks, coming from a diverse array of institutions including California State University of Northridge, California Baptist University, Pacific Oaks, Azusa Pacific University, California State University of Fullerton, Fordham University, Simmons University, California State University of Los Angeles, and the University of Massachusetts.
Interns are crucial to PESA's mission of advocacy and mentorship – as they receive valuable hands-on experiences of becoming advocates for their clients they are simultaneously mentored by our professional staff, including LCSWs and PhDs. As case managers, they monitor and help clients meet court-mandated diversion conditions, such as curfews, apology letters, community service, and counseling. This role extends to providing individual and family counseling and connecting the youth with other external resources that may be beneficial for them, such as after school sport programs and academic tutoring. In essence, PESA interns build rapport with clients to facilitate a successful journey through the juvenile justice system.
Michael Johnson, PESA's Director of Behavioral Health, expressed his enthusiasm about the new cohort: “I’m excited that this year’s interns are more locally based and able to meet in person. It makes a significant difference to have them here, actively engaged in our community and directly interacting with our clients. Their presence will undoubtedly enhance the support we can offer.”
This local focus marks a shift from the past two years, during which many interns participated remotely from out-of-state locations like New York, Colorado, and Texas. The in-person engagement of this year's interns will strengthen connections within the community, fostering a more hands-on approach to client care.
Gabrielle Montague, an MSW student from Simmons University said she chose to intern with PESA because, “It offers multiple opportunities such as case management, counseling, and just getting an idea of everything going on. I especially love that at PESA we look at the clients in a positive way. By viewing them as a whole and how their environment affects them we emphasize an opportunity for a second chance.”
The internship typically lasts between 8 and 15 months, with some extending up to 22 months. The participants come from various educational backgrounds related to social work, marriage and family therapy, and psychology, ensuring a rich and diverse pool of skills and perspectives.
Overall, PESA’s new cohort promises to bring fresh energy and local insight, enhancing the organization's ability to provide comprehensive support and build meaningful relationships with clients.
If you’d like to support PESA’s many social and educational initiatives, please contact us.
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