The long-running program offers students hands-on, real-world experience in integrated health care, reinforcing Wheeler’s mission to provide compassionate, whole-person care that addresses both physical and behavioral health needs. Interns are paired with dedicated staff mentors, gaining exposure to a wide variety of populations and services, while building the skills and confidence to step into future professional roles.
A Focus on Behavioral Health
Our 50 behavioral health interns play an especially important role, supporting intensive outpatient programs, group therapy, patient care coordination, and more. They not only learn from seasoned clinicians but also bring new energy, perspectives, and commitment to serving the community.
This month, we’re proud to spotlight three of our behavioral health interns: Andrea Aka, Sar Kass, and Nicholas Johnson.
Meet Andrea Aka
Andrea is a social work intern from Central Connecticut State University, where she is expected to graduate in May 2026. Through Wheeler’s Community Support for Families (CSF) program, Andrea supports families through weekly home visits, helping connect them with essential resources such as behavioral health support, rental assistance, and help with utilities.
Andrea was drawn to Wheeler for the opportunity to do meaningful, client-centered work and to gain clinical experience that aligns with her goal of becoming a clinician. During her internship, she’s focusing on strengthening her communication skills and building confidence when working directly with clients.
Andrea brings flexibility, strong listening skills, and a willingness to meet families where they are. She’s a quick learner and loves working directly in the community.
Fun fact: Andrea’s first language is French, and she learned English in less than a year! She also loves traveling solo, with Mexico being one of her favorite destinations.
Meet Sar Kass
Sar is an MSW intern from Quinnipiac University, graduating in May 2026, and one of three Walk With Me (WWM) interns based in Waterbury. In their role, Sar provides individual and group therapy sessions and supports outpatient clinical services.
Sar was inspired to pursue an internship with Wheeler after connecting with our team at a career fair and learning more about Wheeler’s commitment to serving non-binary, queer, and marginalized communities. Their professional goal is to work as an outpatient clinician providing affirming therapy, particularly for queer clients, inspired by the impact of their own first non-binary therapist.
Sar brings deep empathy, lived experience, and a strong commitment to client-centered care. They value being fully present with clients, focusing on humanity over perfection, and supporting others without ego. When asked what they bring to Wheeler, Sar shared, “I’ve been through therapy and learned firsthand what not to do. I’ve experienced the harm that can happen when providers don’t show up for clients. I truly enjoy getting to know people and supporting their success, that’s why I do this work.”
Outside of work, Sar is an avid reader who has even run a bookstagram account. They love nonfiction focused on environmental change, queer-centered stories, and speculative fiction, especially works by Octavia Butler. Sar also shared appreciation for their supervisor, Adilsa Encarnacao, for being patient, supportive, and a steady resource during a challenging semester.
Meet Nicholas Johnson
Nicholas is a master’s-level social work intern at University of Connecticut, graduating in May 2027. He works in adult outpatient services in Plainville, where he provides individual psychotherapy and co-facilitates a men’s substance use group.
With years of experience working with individuals with dual diagnoses, Nicholas was drawn to Wheeler’s strong reputation as both a workplace and training site. His internship allows him to deepen his clinical skills while working directly with individuals navigating complex challenges.
Nicholas’ skills include, “…meeting people where they are and seeing them for who they truly are, not who others expect them to be. By understanding individuals in their current circumstances, I can better support their needs and help them move forward.” He’s eager to continue learning about individual therapy and absorbing as much knowledge as possible during his time at Wheeler.
When he’s not working or studying, Nicholas enjoys woodworking and recently handcrafted a wooden bench as a wedding gift for his best friend.
We’re grateful to Andrea, Sar, and Nicholas for the dedication, compassion, and perspectives they bring to Wheeler. Their growth and contributions reflect the importance of investing in the next generation of social work professionals.
For more information on Wheeler Health internships, visit WheelerHealth.org/Careers.