The center implemented an internship program in 2022, which has expanded from two to seven mental health interns. The internship program is a collaboration between Covenant Health and institutions including Texas Tech University, Lubbock Christian University and Abilene Christian University. This partnership allows Covenant Health to expand its community access to counselors while providing the interns with exposure to a career within our organizations.
Dane Eggleston, Ph.D., LMFT-S, senior mental health therapist at Covenant Health, oversees the seven interns. He emphasizes the autonomy given to the interns in scheduling meetings and documenting case notes.
“We meet weekly to discuss the cases and their development as a therapist,” Eggleston said. “Oftentimes I observe how they work with different clients. The live supervision can be extremely helpful.”
Lynn Giang, doctoral student intern, has benefited from this internship through exposure with various clients.
“I visit the hospital and other facilities to see clients and work directly with nurses,” Giang said.
The partnership with institutions not only benefits the interns, but also serves as a catalyst for building a stronger mental health workforce. With continued efforts and partnerships like these, we are responding to our region’s health needs by enhancing access to mental health resources and improving the wellbeing of our community.
