Graduate Level Internships

Internship Program Overview

AATPC partners with universities to offer a comprehensive clinical internship for Master’s and Doctoral level mental health students. Our program provides specialized training, supervision, and hands-on experience in Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (AAP) with a diverse client base.

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Program Requirements & Commitment

To ensure continuity of care and depth of training, we require the following:

• Duration: A mandatory 12-month commitment.

• Weekly Hours: 20 hours per week (inclusive of graduation dates).

• Schedule: * At least 5 hours every weekend.

  • Minimum of 2 evenings per week.

  • Thursdays (Mandatory): 11:00 am – 2:00 pm for staff meetings and group supervision.

• Qualifications: Candidates must have completed a Practicum in a supervised clinical setting or possess equivalent clinical work experience.

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The Intern Experience

Your journey begins with a comprehensive orientation covering administrative and clinical protocols. Once complete, interns typically manage a caseload of 10–12 client hours per week.

As a working ranch and non-profit, this role blends clinical practice with essential operational support.

Your duties include:

• Clinical Practice: Individual, group, and family psychotherapy across various demographics (Children, Veterans, Couples, etc.).

• Animal & Ranch Care: Maintaining the health and well-being of ranch animals and ensuring facility cleanliness.

• Administrative Support: Managing inquiries, conducting ranch tours, and assisting with fundraising or community events.

Clinical Supervision: AATPC provides one hour of individual supervision weekly, along with group supervision. Interns also have the option to complete our full AAP Certificate Program.

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Working with Animals

Interns are trained to work with the therapy animals residing on our ranch. While you are not required to provide your own animal, you may apply to work with a personal pet:

• Requirements: Pets must undergo a secondary interview to assess temperament.

• Dogs: Must be trained and certified (at the intern’s expense) through an approved organization before coming onsite.

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Application Cycles

We onboard new cohorts three times a year:

• Start Dates: January, May, and August/September.

• Timeline: Submit your application at least 4 months prior to your desired start date. Interviews typically begin 3 months out.

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How to Apply

To be considered for the program, please submit the following:

1. Completed Internship Application

2. Current Resume

3. Cover Letter (detailing relevant clinical and animal experience)

Submit applications to:

Terri Bauer, Clinical Supervisor

Email: internship@aatpc.org

Phone: 720-990-5131 x 120

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Selection Process: Selected candidates will move through a three-stage process: an online application review, an individual interview, and a potential group interview.