Internship in Child & Adolescent Psychology

This intensive, training-focused internship is designed to equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills in Child and Adolescent Psychology. Structured to build competency in working with children and adolescents, the program offers a deep dive into developmental stages and their connection to neurodevelopmental disorders. Each week, students will explore key themes and concepts, gaining hands-on experience through case studies, group discussions, video analysis, and interactive activities. By the end of the internship, participants will have strengthened the foundational skills needed to practice effectively and ethically in the field.

1. 1. Developmental Milestones &  Delays: This programme provides a thorough overview of developmental milestones from the prenatal stage through adolescence, covering physical, cognitive, and social development. Participants will gain insights into how typical growth in motor skills, sensory processing, language, memory, and emotional regulation unfolds and how delays in these areas can be early indicators of neurodevelopmental disorders. By examining the connection between developmental milestones and neurodevelopmental challenges, this course equips students and professionals with essential knowledge for identifying, understanding, and supporting children and adolescents with diverse developmental needs.  
   2. Play Therapy: Participants will learn the fundamentals of play therapy and how play can be a valuable tool for identifying developmental delays. Through projective techniques, they will explore how play supports children’s imagination, creativity, and self-expression. The training also includes guidance on recognising developmental skills within play activities and using play materials to facilitate skill development and exploration.
   3. Trauma Informed Care: The internship will help interns learn about trauma-informed care for children in an approach that recognises and addresses the impact of adverse experiences on a child’s development and well-being. This care model focuses on creating a safe, supportive environment where children feel understood and validated. Key elements include understanding the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) such as child sexual abuse, emotional and physical abuse, and neglect. Trauma-informed care emphasizes empathy, resilience-building, and tailored interventions to help children process their experiences, promote healing, and build a sense of security and trust.
   4. Family Dynamics: Family dynamics play a crucial role in a child’s development, shaping their emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Which is why interns will learn how to navigate this approach and examine the influence of relationships within the family—such as parent-child interactions, sibling bonds, and communication patterns—on a child’s overall well-being, with the help of case studies and videos. Also looking at how dysfunctional dynamics, including conflict, lack of support, or inconsistent boundaries, can contribute to emotional and behavioral challenges in children. 
   5. Bullying & Body Image: Bullying and body image issues greatly impact the mental health of children and adolescents, often leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, and unhealthy self-perceptions. Bullying experiences—whether physical, verbal, or online—can result in lasting emotional harm, while negative body image is linked to issues like depression and disordered eating. Interns will learn how mental health professionals can support young people in building resilience, self-worth, and a positive body image.