Train at Mala
Professional Counseling Training
Professional
Counseling
Training
guidance in support of your passion.
A Community Where Your Passion Becomes Purpose
At Mala Child and Family Institute, we believe in nurturing the heart and mind of every counselor who walks through our doors. Whether you’re currently in your program to obtain your degree or a post-graduate counselor looking to deepen your expertise, our training program offers a unique and comprehensive experience designed to help you grow into a well-rounded, compassionate, and highly skilled professional.
Why Train With Us?
Focus on Holistic and Trauma-Informed Care
We’re deeply committed to providing care that heals not just the mind, but the whole person. Our training emphasizes trauma-informed practices, including EMDR and inner child healing work, ensuring you’re equipped with the tools to help clients navigate their most challenging experiences. You’ll also explore the power of art therapy as a means to reach and heal those who might struggle with traditional talk therapy.
Comprehensive, Hands-On Learning
Our program is designed to give you real-world experience with a diverse client population. From children to adults, you’ll work with clients across the lifespan, applying what you learn in a supportive environment that values your growth and development.
A True Multidisciplinary Approach
We believe that the best counselors are those who understand the full spectrum of care. That’s why our training program includes shadowing opportunities with our occupational therapy and psychiatry departments. This experience will give you a well-rounded understanding of how different disciplines intersect and support each other in holistic client care.
practicum internships
We currently offer practicum internships for Wayne State University's Masters of Arts in Counseling Program students. As a top-training facility for Wayne State University, we accept one student per year for this internship program. If you’re interested in applying or learning more, tap here.
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As you work towards your degree, our program offers a rich and varied experience that complements your academic training. You’ll engage with clients in a way that brings your classroom learning to life, supported by a team that is committed to your success.
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If you’re passionate about integrating creative approaches into your counseling practice, our subspecialty in art therapy will give you the tools to help clients express and process emotions through creative mediums. This unique focus will enhance your ability to connect with and support your clients.
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We understand that the journey to becoming a counselor is both exciting and challenging. That’s why we provide a nurturing environment where you can learn, grow, and thrive. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel valued and encouraged as you develop your skills.
Post Graduate Fellowships
Mala provides an intensive post-graduate fellowship program for Professional Counselors on their way to becoming licensed professionals. This is a 2-year program, with second-year admittance based on first-year performance.
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Our post-graduate program is designed to deepen your expertise in trauma-informed care. You’ll gain advanced training in techniques like EMDR and inner child healing, empowering you to support clients who have experienced complex trauma. This specialized focus will set you apart as a counselor with the skills to make a profound impact.
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You’ll receive personalized supervision and mentorship from experienced professionals who are leaders in their fields. Our mentors are not just here to guide you—they’re here to inspire you, helping you to refine your practice and achieve your professional goals.
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In addition to your counseling training, you’ll have the opportunity to shadow our occupational therapy and psychiatry departments. This multidisciplinary exposure will give you a broader understanding of client care and equip you with the knowledge to collaborate effectively in diverse clinical settings.
Specialty Tracks:
ART Therapy
Trauma & Anxiety
Neurodiversity
Couples & Familes
Application Deadlines:
Undergraduate Interns Application Deadlines
Summer Start Date: February 1st
Fall Start Date: June 1st
Master's Level Practicum Students (MSW, Psychology, or Counseling)
Fall Start Date: March 1
Doctoral Practicum/Advanced Practicum (Psychology)
Fall Start Date: January 1st
Post Graduation Fellowship (LLMSW, Psychology, Post-Doctoral)
Spring graduation: March 1st
Winter graduation: October 1st
Our Program Staff
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Kelsy Butkus, LPC
Clinical Director & Counseling Supervisor
Apply to Be Considered for Future Fellowship Openings
If you have questions about training and supervision at Mala, please reach out. We would love to talk with you. If you feel deeply that Mala is your place, send us an application. Even if we are not currently accepting new interns or fellows, we’d be happy to place you on our interest list. Please note this on your application if you’d like to be considered in the future.