Clinical Training Program

Training the Next Generation of Mental Health Professionals

  • Child Guidance Center welcomes applications from graduate-level students pursuing careers in mental health and related fields, including social work, marriage and family therapy, counseling, and psychology.

    Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited academic program that requires practicum, field placement, or internship hours as part of their degree requirements.

  • CGC has MOU’s (Memo of Understanding) with over 30 schools, including many California based universities and many major university systems nationwide. We offer training for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral students, so can establish an MOU with most universities in the event we don’t have a current MOU with yours. Please reach out to our training department staff to learn more.

  • Thanks to a grant funded by Cal Optima we have a small amount of student stipends available for select students.

  • While bilingual skills are not required, preference is given to candidates who are bilingual or multilingual. Child Guidance Center serves children and families who speak eight different languages, and we highly value interns who can help provide culturally responsive care and improve access to services for the diverse communities we serve.

  • We have 5 clinics throughout Orange County, CA and services are provided in person. If you are interested, please send your resume to training@cgcinc.org

  • At CGC, students and trainees receive hands-on experience in a collaborative, community-based mental health setting that serves children, adolescents, families, veterans, and military-connected families. Interns work alongside experienced clinicians and multidisciplinary teams while gaining exposure to evidence-based and trauma-informed practices. Beyond developing clinical skills, students have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of underserved and diverse communities throughout Orange County.

  • Yes. Eligible students and trainees receive individual and/or group supervision from licensed mental health professionals in accordance with their academic program requirements and California licensure regulations. Supervision is designed to support professional growth, strengthen clinical competencies, and help students accrue qualifying hours when applicable.

  • Students and trainees have the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, families, veterans, and military-connected families from diverse cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Many individuals served by CGC have experienced trauma, behavioral and emotional challenges, anxiety, depression, family stressors, or other mental health concerns. This experience provides valuable exposure to a wide range of clinical presentations and community mental health needs.

  • CGC is committed to fostering professional development through a variety of learning opportunities. Students and trainees participate in clinical trainings, evidence-based practice workshops, case consultations, multidisciplinary team meetings, and specialized presentations led by experienced mental health professionals. These experiences help bridge classroom learning with real-world clinical practice.

  • Yes. CGC is dedicated to developing the next generation of mental health professionals and values investing in its trainees. Many former students and trainees have successfully transitioned into employment opportunities within the organization after completing their academic programs. While employment is not guaranteed, CGC actively encourages qualified trainees to apply for open positions and continue their professional growth within the agency.