In Central Texas, the demand for youth mental health services has never been higher. At the same time, aspiring clinicians often face significant financial hurdles, including unpaid internships and the high costs of clinical supervision.
At Austin Child Guidance Center (ACGC), we believe that supporting our community starts with supporting the people who care for it. That is why we are thrilled to introduce Pathways to Practice (P2P).
What is Pathways to Practice?
P2P is more than just an internship; it is a comprehensive career development pathway. Whether a student is earning an associate degree, finishing a master’s program, or provisionally licensed and in the early stages of their career, P2P provides a roadmap for professional growth.
Removing Barriers to Entry
Supported by funding from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. and Roddy Holden Kintzel Charitable Fund, P2P aims to remove financial barriers to clinical training while expanding access to high-quality behavioral health services for children and families across Central Texas.
The financial burden of higher education often prevents talented individuals from entering the mental health field. P2P addresses this directly by offering:
- Paid Internships: Stipends ranging from $1,250 for associate-level students to $10,000 for master’s-level students.
- Dedicated Supervision: Clinical supervision—often a significant out-of-pocket expense for provisionally-licensed clinicians—is provided at no cost, absorbed by ACGC.
- Diverse Opportunities: Training roles include community outreach, intake, therapy, mental health consultation, and case management.
A Deep Dive into Clinical Excellence
Interns at ACGC don’t just observe; they lead. Under the guidance of our dedicated Clinical Supervisor, students gain hands-on experience delivering culturally responsive care using evidence-based models including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI).
Our goal is simple: to ensure that when students complete their time at ACGC, they are not only licensed-ready but also deeply prepared to serve the diverse needs of Central Texas families.
An Invitation to Invest in the Future of Mental Health Care
Programs like Pathways to Practice are only possible through the generosity of donors, foundations, and grant partners who believe in equity, workforce development, and early intervention. With additional philanthropic investment, ACGC can expand P2P cohorts, increase stipends, and reach more children and families who urgently need care.
By supporting P2P, funders are not only investing in individual clinicians—they are strengthening the entire mental health ecosystem of Central Texas and helping ensure that quality care is accessible for generations to come.
To learn more about funding opportunities or partnership possibilities, please contact our Development Team at development@austinchildguidance.org or 512-451-2242.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
We are actively seeking university partners and passionate students to join our 2026 cohorts. By working together, we can ensure that every child in our region has access to the quality care they deserve.
Ready to start your journey? Head to our student intern/practicum application to apply for the P2P program, watch a P2P info session recording, or reach out to our team at internships@austinchildguidance.org or 512-451-2242 to learn more.
