Does this job count as clinical experience for psychology?

[K31D1Psych]

Hello! I am an undergrad seeking clinical experience. I currently work for a lab, have had some interns, but I may take a job this summer. Before I do, I want to ensure it will be valuable maybe, because I’m having a hard time choosing if I should do my intern NOW and not take the job or do my intern in the fall and take the job then quit or lower my hours when I go back to college in the fall. 

It is called youth peer support specialist. According to the description, I would, “provide support to youth with severe emotional disturbance, support youth empowerment, assist skill development, transition and community integration, and work collaboratively with those involved in their care.... the youth peer support specialist is a person who is willing to self identify as a peer who has received treatment for mental illness and/or substance use and has made progression in their own treatment.” They are trained and certified through a program by the state. 

Thoughts? Would  it be weird to just do my intern in the fall, and take the job? But then that’d mean I’d have to awkwardly quit or lower my hours and  discuss it with them when college starts back up. 

Edited April 28, 2018 by Keld1

[MarineBluePsy]

The job you're describing would be considered clinical experience and would provide you with a lot of general knowledge if you decide you want to work with youth.  Have you already applied for the job and been offered the position?  If not then that would be your first step.  If you're selected for an interview then make it clear that you're a student that is committed to their studies and find out their expectations.  Perhaps they have students work full time in the summer and part time the rest of the year, perhaps its part time all year,  perhaps its only a summer job, etc.  If you're not selected for an interview then it won't matter.  

[K31D1Psych]

7 hours ago, MarineBluePsy said:

The job you're describing would be considered clinical experience and would provide you with a lot of general knowledge if you decide you want to work with youth.  Have you already applied for the job and been offered the position?  If not then that would be your first step.  If you're selected for an interview then make it clear that you're a student that is committed to their studies and find out their expectations.  Perhaps they have students work full time in the summer and part time the rest of the year, perhaps its part time all year,  perhaps its only a summer job, etc.  If you're not selected for an interview then it won't matter.  

Yes I’ve been asked to interview. The problem is I’m more interested in working with teens and adults. But I figured this can’t hurt, and I’ll still technically be working with ages up to 18. It’s considered a part time job only, thats all im applying for. I’m just not sure if I should reveal I wouldn’t be able to continue much once college starts back up. 

[MarineBluePsy]

I think you should take it one step at a time.  The job itself is good experience regardless of what direction you ultimately end up in and the interview is good practice too.  During the interview you're expected to ask questions so ask what the plans are for the position beyond the summer.  If they are open to less hours and/or are willing to work around a school schedule they will tell you.