Counselling Psychology Intern

We provide holistic support through integrated treatment, professional training, and leadership coaching — bringing together prevention, care, and capacity building to serve individuals, families, institutions, and communities. By integrating traditional psychology with newer evidence-based and trauma-informed therapy models, we address the root causes of distress: deep-seated pain, trauma, and grief — not just the symptoms.

Our work is grounded in the scientifically supported understanding that many substance use, psychiatric, and behavioral challenges stem from unresolved trauma and grief. By addressing these root causes, we achieve sustainable recovery outcomes and help clients rebuild healthier, more fulfilling lives.

With over a decade of experience advancing trauma-informed models in Canada, CAfRIC is recognized as a national benchmark for trauma-informed care in Kenya.

Internship Overview

Duration: 3 Months — 1 month onsite at CAfRIC Centre Thika, followed by 2 months at CAfRIC sites across the Nairobi Metropolitan Area.
Thika Location: Lake Bogoria Avenue, Golf-View Estate, Murang’a County (10 minutes from the Thika Flyover, next to Thika Sports Club).

What You Will Learn

This internship is designed to bridge the gap between theory, practice, and workplace success. As a Counselling Psychology Intern at CAfRIC, you will:

• Develop expertise in conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments
• Create and implement personalized treatment plans
• Explore the connections between developmental, relational, and complex trauma and their impacts on substance use and mental health
• Participate in collaborative case conceptualization with experienced clinicians
• Receive dedicated clinical supervision from seasoned professionals
• Learn and master trauma-informed care approaches in counselling, mental health treatment, and substance use rehabilitation
• Build a robust toolkit of evidence-based therapy techniques for both individual and group settings
• Gain hands-on experience with crisis intervention
• Expand your professional network through interdisciplinary collaboration and access specialized training not available in typical academic settings
• Develop advanced cultural competency skills
• Gain practical experience with specialized EMR systems designed for trauma-informed care — a technical skill that sets you apart from other candidates

Professional Development and Mentorship Programme

All interns join CAfRIC’s virtual Professional Development and Mentorship Programme, comprising three progressive modules:

Module 1 — Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence Training: 8 sessions of specialized e-training to help you uncover the origins of deep-seated beliefs and personality patterns that may unconsciously shape your life. You will develop greater self-compassion and a renewed sense of personal authority — supporting your journey from merely surviving to genuinely thriving, both professionally and personally.
Module 2 — Professional Skills Training: 13 interactive virtual sessions led by industry experts, designed to sharpen the practical competencies that define effective mental health practitioners.
Module 3 — Applied Clinical Practice: Integrate and apply everything you have learned in real therapeutic settings, working directly with clients under the close guidance of experienced clinical supervisors.

👉 Preview the programme here: CAfRIC Learning Site

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Counselling Psychology from a recognized institution in Kenya
• At least 3 months of working experience, including clinical attachment
• Current registration with the Counsellors and Psychologists Board of Kenya (CPB), or documented evidence that registration is actively in progress

Key Skills

• Strong interpersonal and active listening skills
• Basic counselling techniques and intervention strategies
• Familiarity with psychological assessment tools
• Cross-cultural sensitivity and awareness
• Proficiency in English and Swahili
• Basic record-keeping and documentation skills

Compensation
While this internship is unpaid, it is far from without reward. Interns who demonstrate strong performance over the three months will be considered for paid opportunities within CAfRIC — opening the door to a career where you can earn, grow, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.