Mental Health Program

Overview

The Carter Center's Mental Health Program works to promote policies and practices that raise awareness of mental illnesses and lead to improved mental health and social functioning domestically and internationally. The program's main goals are to:

• Reduce stigma and discrimination against people with mental illnesses
• Promote the equitable treatment of mental illnesses
• Improve services for people with mental illnesses locally, nationally, and globally

The work of the program is guided by the Mental Health Task Force, which is chaired by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter. Mrs. Carter has been a driving force in the field of mental health throughout her career. Similar to other programs at The Carter Center, the Mental Health Program achieves its goals by networking and partnering with other organizations, including journalists, governments, and other nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations. Specific projects that address these priorities vary as opportunities arise, but often include planning program initiatives such as the Georgia Mental Health Forum or the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism.

Number of Interns per Semester: 2-3

Applicant Preferences:

• Interest in healthcare issues, specifically mental healthcare
• Coursework/fieldwork in psychology, public health, medicine, public policy, social work, or a related area
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong critical analysis and problem solving skills
• Strong initiative
• Comfortable with ambiguity

Typical Projects:

• Research and develop PowerPoint presentations for the staff lectures and keynote presentations
• Assist with all aspects of planning for program initiatives such as the annual Georgia Mental Health Forum and The Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism annual training meeting 
• Assist with coordination of program special public events
• Keep staff up to date on current mental health issues (parity, returning veterans' issues, children's issues, etc.)
• Assist with regular program functions including program evaluation, public correspondence, and social media activities
• Assist staff with letters of correspondence, literature reviews, and meeting minutes

Interested in applying for an internship in the Center's Mental Health Program? Check out the application deadlines >