Department of Family Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-7500 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building
Fairfax, VA 22035
Michael A. Becketts
Director

Department Resources

Gaining Rewarding Opportunities in the Workforce (GROW) DFS Internship Program

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Join a diverse group of employees committed to strengthening the wellbeing of the Fairfax County community by protecting and improving the lives of county residents. 

Students, you can join the Department of Family Services for an internship anchored in unique, real-world experiences and training that will propel you successfully beyond the classroom. 

At DFS, you will work alongside skilled professionals on relevant projects, while developing a strong network of colleagues. While most DFS internships are unpaid*, students receive college credit for their internship hours, and the internships can open an additional pathway for students interested in becoming full-time DFS employees. Learn more about our vision, mission and values and what it’s like to work for DFS.

Join us and GROW your career with DFS!

Eligible Students 

  • Enrolled in an accredited university/college.
  • Enrolled in an accredited academic program.
  • Enrolled in a field practicum course/course requiring internship.
  • Enrolled in the senior year of a bachelor’s degree program or as a graduate student.
  • Available for a minimum of 16 hours per week (or 14 hours/week on a case-by-case basis).
  • Committed to two semesters or one academic year minimum. (Certain programs that offer “single semester,” summer, or “practicum” followed by internship with DFS may be considered on a case-by-case basis.)
  • Must attend a university/college with a current/valid Affiliation Agreement. Contact the Clinical Coordinator if you are unsure about an Affiliation Agreement. 

Fairfax County Department of Family Services offers a comprehensive internship program across our five divisions: 

  • Adult & Aging
  • Children’s Services Act
  • Children, Youth and Families
  • Domestic and Sexual Violence Services
  • Public Assistance & Employment Services.

Each division provides unique opportunities tailored to different aspects of social services. There are opportunities for students in the areas of aging, adult learning/training, case management, child welfare, prevention, program development, quality assurance, utilization review, and more. 

While each student practitioner is assigned to one DFS program/division in a semester, there are opportunities for learning activities across programs and through participation in professional development activities. Interns may be assigned to work out of any DFS Office location across the county. 

Adult & Aging, Children, Youth and Families, and Domestic & Sexual Violence Services internships are direct service. They allow interns to engage in direct face-to-face client interactions including home visits and assessments, case consultations, service planning, and utilizing clinical/therapeutic interventions. Notably, the DSVS division provides opportunities for practicing outpatient counseling services.

Children’s Services Act and Public Assistance & Employment Services internships focus on policy development (local, state, federal), program development, quality assurance, data analysis, training, and collaboration with community partners. For a more detailed position description, contact the Clinical Coordinator.

Ready to GROW? Applicants must submit a GROW DFS Internship Application and email your resume to the Clinical Coordinator by the application deadline. A cover letter is optional.

Internship Start Application Deadline*
Fall April 1
Spring October 1
Summer February 1
*Applications received after the deadline date will not be reviewed.

 

*Internships with DFS are unpaid. However, through Disability Rights and Resources, an individual may be eligible for John Hudson Internship Program where there is coordination of full-time paid internships.

 

The Department of Family Services positively affirms and celebrates every individual’s identity based on race, color, sex, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veterans’ status or disabled veterans’ status. We unequivocally reject racism, violence, and bigotry in all its forms, and we support equitable service delivery and outcomes for all county residents.
 

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