What Is It Like to Be a Crisis Services Intern?

March 14, 2019

What it’s like being a crisis services intern…

It feels a little intimidating not knowing what type of call is coming (like Pandora ’s Box), however, knowing that I have a supportive team helps a lot. Being a part of an organization whose main goal is to help and support others makes all the difference.

The most important thing I learned…

We don’t need to be able to solve everyone’s problems, therapy is about supporting and empowering others through their difficulties.

A day in the life of an intern…

I like being able to do different things and learn more about myself with each experience. I get to have in-depth conversations with my supervisor regarding calls, techniques and social policy (my secret passion). I take calls in the crisis services center, help train new volunteers (I was nervous about public speaking) and be a part of the NRS family.

I would recommend this experience because…

The crisis management skills I learn here, don’t just make me a good liner. They make me a better human and friend. I learned techniques about self-care and how to look at things from new perspectives. It taught me to remain calm in stressful situations and how, “it’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.”

The most rewarding part of my time at NRS…

Self-fulfillment: If I go home knowing that I helped even one person in their time of need, I sleep happier.

We are currently accepting applications for our 2019/2020 internship program for both the summer and academic year. Interns at the National Runaway Safeline gain experience in delivering direct crisis services and with working on projects related to training, outreach, social media and prevention programs. Click here to learn more about our internship program.

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