Therapeutic Lifestyle Guide Intern

Gain unmatched real-word experience in the fields of mental health, experiential programming, and nature-based programming!
 

About Us:
At Northwest Passage, we focus on mental health and wellness through the adoption of our PassageWay Elements: Nature, Recreation, Relaxation, Nutrition, Exercise, Relationships, Service, and Spirit. These elements are central to our approach, combining traditional mental health treatment with arts, education, nature-based therapy, and experiential opportunities. Since 1978, we've been dedicated to providing high-quality care in a community dedicated to hope, recovery, and wellness. Our facilities in Northwest Wisconsin offer a peaceful environment for our clients and staff, with easy access to activities and resources near Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, and Eau Claire.

Northwest Passage proudly serves youth from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, and we are committed to providing an environment where all youth feel welcomed and supported. Northwest Passage looks to build our team with candidates who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to all of our clients, demonstrating resilience, determination, collaboration, teamwork, and a strong work ethic. At Northwest Passage, you will foster hope through your involvement in the healing process. Guided by the PassageWay Elements, we strive to create a positive environment for growth and wellness for both our clients and staff.

Position Description:
As a Therapeutic Lifestyle Guide Intern, you will be responsible for assisting in providing instruction on practicing components of a therapeutic lifestyle (the PassageWay) to youth as part of an interdisciplinary treatment team. The position provides quality youth care and intensive supervision of clients in a residential treatment setting. This includes supervising and engaging in activities consistent with a therapeutic lifestyle, tracking and reporting on resident’s treatment progress, and serving as a positive role model. Shift hours vary depending on program and intern availability. 

Responsibilities (alongside lead Therapeutic Lifestyle Guide):

• Work with youth to improve their overall physical and emotional health through the development of eight therapeutic lifestyle components consistent with the PassageWay.
• Lead fitness programs that include traditional approaches to fitness, as well as yoga, canoeing, kayaking, cross country skiing, rock climbing, and other outdoor and place based activities.
• Provide support to Youth Development Specialists in developing and implementing PassageWay programming.
• Create and maintain a structured and safe living environment for youth as they participate in assessment/treatment.
• Provide a nurturing environment with close, intensive supervision for high risk youth in accordance with least restrictive treatment measures.
• Assure residents’ basic needs are met including meals, exercise, hygiene, and sleep.
• Assure residents’ emotional needs are met in accordance with the individual treatment or assessment plan.
• Recognize and adjust communication to meet residents’ needs. Provide feedback that is clear, specific, timely, and respectful.
• Work with residents to provide solutions for problematic behaviors.
• Document program activities, residents’ behaviors and program participation, and significant incidents involving residents.
• Attend all staff meetings, trainings, and educational classes as required.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment.
• Understand and follow agency policies.

Qualifications & Essential Skills:

• Coursework in social or behavioral sciences - outdoor and/or experiential education, human service field OR physical education/health education preferred.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with colleagues and clients with diverse backgrounds.
• A commitment to professional skill development and growth within the mental health field.
   

Internship Dates and Hours per Week: Flexible—Northwest Passage is a 24/7 residential treatment facility and is able to offer unique shifts to fit student schedules.

Benefits of the Position:

• Unmatched real-world experience in the fields of mental health, experiential programming, and nature-based programming
• Opportunity to attend meetings with multidisciplinary treatment team, including case managers, therapists, neuropsychologists, and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners.
• Internships are paid, and Northwest Passage offers free housing for full-time interns. 

*Due to the rural location, there is no public transportation available. Applicants must have a valid driver license and vehicle available for the duration of their internship. 

Values:
In addition to responsibilities and qualifications, ideal candidates will show an understanding of and an ongoing dedication to actively applying Northwest Passage’s values, which are embedded into each role:

• Quality & Adaptability
• Respect & Compassion
• Leadership & Courage
• Connection & Well-being