Congregational Social Work Education Initiative (CSWEI) 
What is the CSWEI internship program?
The Congregational Social Work Education Initiative is a nationally recognized, community based, pilot program, which uses master and bachelor level social work students from North Carolina A & T State University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, to provide social work services to Greensboro area congregants. Partnering with nurses from the Congregational Nurse Program (CNP), the social work intern and congregational nurse provide free health and mental health/wellness services to designated churches and other faith based institutions. CSWEI students have the opportunity to complete their social work field education in a nontraditional setting. The CSWEI/CNP model has been recognized through four national conference presentations and several other regional and state conferences.
What is it not?
Although we acknowledge spirituality as part of a holistic model, CSWEI interns are not spiritual guides or spiritual counselors. We provide social work services in a faith-based institution in order to provide human services in a convenient, easily accessible, non-stigmatizing environment. Clients are more comfortable accessing care via their church rather than a mental health center or state supported agency such as DSS.
Why choose CSWEI as your field placement?
- Prestige : Work with a national pilot program that has received local, state, and national recognition.
- Education & Experience : Students have the opportunity to work with over 35 diverse institutions, serving diverse populations including, Montagnards, Latinos, and Native Americans. Students work with a broad client base representing all racial, ethnic, socio-economic, age groups. Students also work with homeless individuals at Greensboro Urban Ministry, Salvation Army, and the newly created homeless service agency, the Interactive Resource Center. CSWEI interns also get extensive experience in leadership, administration, and program development.
- Clinical Experience : CSWEI interns receive extensive instruction in the area of mental health, clinical diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions; core knowledge necessary for [LCSW] clinical licensure.
- Interdisciplinary : All CSWEI interns also work as a member of an interdisciplinary health team.
- History : CSWEI returns to the profession to its original social work roots. All of its services are offered either in the client’s home, faith institution, or nonprofit agency partner.
- Networking : Students have an opportunity to network with numerous agencies and community leaders which may prove beneficial during the search for employment. Students have also attended conferences in Philadelphia, Greenville, and Asheville on behalf of the program. All CSWEI activities help build your resume skills.
What services can CSWEI provide?
- Assessments: Students conduct comprehensive psycho-social assessments to determine the strengths and needs of individuals who are referred for services.
- Supportive counseling: If indicated through the assessment process, students will provide supportive counseling to individuals and families served by the Initiative. This may include strategies to enhance coping skills, reduce stress, process loss and/or grief, and adjust to life changes.
- Linking and Coordinating [Case Management] : Students will assist individuals served in identifying and accessing appropriate services based on strengths and needs. The intern will identify the available community service/resource and assist in the coordination of needed services.
- Educational Services : Students develop and present educational events and provide materials that
address a variety of health and mental health concerns. Previous educational sessions have included
information on
- Stages of Grief with Grief and Loss Jeopardy,
- Depression Taboo,
- Stress Management,
- Drug Jeopardy,
- How to Get a Job,
- and Community Resources: Where do you Go?
How do I apply?
Applying for CSWEI is easy. Email the Program Director, Dr. Fran Pearson at afpearso@uncg.edu indicating your interest in applying to the program.
Dr. Pearson would also be happy to answer any
questions you may have about CSWEI.
