Issue link: http://ncumarketing.uberflip.com/i/1471681
What are you currently doing for your internship? I shadowed activities at McLean County Center for Human Services (MCCHS), which is located in Bloomington, Illinois, that focused on nonclinical diagnosis. Some observed cases led to the discovery of other underlying medical conditions which coexisted with the client's present or primary health issues. For example, consideration for external mitigants like engaging in dysfunctional social relationships or interactions with particular family members contributed to one client's high stress and anxiety levels, which were associated with her irritability, loss of appetite, and inability to sleep. These specific factors influenced her health and wellness. My observations encompassed cases that required evaluative assessment to determine treatment plans for either present and new health issues, which was relevant to investigating associative links between certain health problems, medical conditions, and environmental or social factors. My internship at MCCHS has taught me lessons in critical thinking, health research, and educational awareness to reduce the high risk for certain medical conditions, ailments, and illnesses. Another client observation involved the refusal of the COVID-19 vaccination, which was primarily based on widespread false claims and misinformation. The client was provided educational awareness through evidence-based literature to foster an informed decision about being vaccinated without coercion by any MCCHS staff. Respect for personal choice while providing beneficial health services for those in need sought to enhance my knowledge, skill, and professionalism while performing my internship duties. I also observed cases where emphasis on coping and management, integrative and collaborative care, programming, and healthcare accessibility and availability were at the forefront of my internship experience as well as relevant to my program of study (health psychology). My MCCHS internship experience reflected upon a broad spectrum of health-related areas, which encompassed a whole-body wellness approach. Through participation, I acquired knowledge in areas of both clinical and non-clinical evaluative assessment, but the common thread was the work site objective to provide program services that promoted complete health and wellness and well-being of people in need. Shelita Rhone -Plaskett Student Contribution 4 Northcentral University Psychology Bulletin