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Mental Health Interns will work with experienced psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health professionals in various countries. They will participate in patient assessments, therapy sessions, and community mental health programs. Interns will also observe and engage in mental health education and outreach activities.
Developed with insights from leading mental health programs, this internship offers a comprehensive learning experience. Interns will understand mental health practices deeply, develop therapeutic skills, and learn to address mental health issues in diverse cultural contexts. The program is tailored to align with each intern’s educational and career goals, promoting personal and professional growth.
International Medical Aid, a non-profit organization established at Johns Hopkins University, coordinates Mental Health Internships and volunteer opportunities for undergraduate students, graduate students, and licensed professionals in regions most needed: East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. By providing essential healthcare support in these areas, we allow participants to gain valuable exposure to diverse mental health fields through our psychiatric internships and study abroad programs.
Moreover, our programs enable interns and volunteers to discover the beauty and culture of our destinations through distinct adventure programs led by experienced and dependable tour guides. Upholding the values of integrity, respect, commitment, and imagination, IMA guarantees a safe and mutually rewarding experience where students can make a meaningful difference in underprivileged communities worldwide.
As a non-profit organization, IMA invests back into all the communities we engage with. Unlike programs that merely transport participants to hospital assignments with minimal oversight, we provide a well-structured setting backed by numerous local and U.S.-based resources. In addition, IMA thoroughly oversees every aspect of our interns’ global experience, delivering extensive training on safety and infection prevention procedures.
Our clinical experience goal is achieved through our emphasis on hands-on learning, which provides interns with a solid foundation in medical theory and practice. Our physician shadowing and clinical rotations enable interns to work closely with healthcare professionals, observe medical procedures, and participate in patient care.
Our cultural competency goal is achieved through our language and cultural immersion activities. Interns will have the opportunity to learn a new language, immerse themselves in a new culture, and gain a deeper understanding of how culture affects healthcare practices.
Our global health competency goal is achieved through our collaboration with local healthcare organizations and our emphasis on understanding global health issues. Interns will have the opportunity to learn about healthcare policies and systems in different countries and gain an understanding of the global healthcare landscape.
Our experienced staff provides mentorship and support to help you achieve your goals and make the most of your experience. They will provide guidance on everything from cultural etiquette to medical terminology, and will be available to answer any questions or concerns throughout your internship.
At the end of the program, interns will receive a certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation from IMA. These documents will attest to the knowledge, skills, and competencies gained through the program and can be used to enhance their future academic and professional opportunities.
IMA’s Mental Health Internships offer an exceptional opportunity for interns to gain practical experience, deepen their understanding of mental health, and develop a global perspective on healthcare. Our programs are meticulously designed to prepare interns for successful careers in mental health, providing a comprehensive learning experience tailored to each intern’s unique needs and goals. Our Mental Health Internships include:
Program offerings vary by location. For specific inquiries, please contact admissions@medicalaid.org.
The safety of our interns is a top priority for International Medical Aid. IMA works with experienced in-country staff to ensure that all program locations are safe and secure for interns. The organization maintains a high safety rating and provides a program safety page to address any questions or concerns interns may have.
Accommodations for interns are provided in the form of program residences, which are located in safe and convenient areas. The program residences accommodate a small cohort of interns, providing a supportive and immersive experience. Interns are responsible for their personal spending budget, which includes expenses such as food, transportation, and personal items. IMA provides information on expected personal spending budgets for each program location to help interns plan accordingly.
Excursions, trips, and safaris are also offered by IMA to provide a well-rounded and culturally immersive experience for interns. Excursions and trips are carefully selected and planned to provide a unique and safe experience for interns.
International Medical Aid offers high-quality, ethical, and impactful internship opportunities that benefit both our Mental Health Interns and the communities we serve. By choosing IMA for your Mental Health Internship, you can expect the following:
Hands-on, Immersive Experience
Our Mental Health Internships provide real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings, allowing you to apply your psychological and counseling knowledge in practical contexts. This enables you to make meaningful contributions to the mental well-being of the communities you serve.
Personalized Placements
We work closely with each Mental Health Intern to develop a customized placement that aligns with their interests, goals, and level of experience. This ensures a rewarding and fulfilling internship experience tailored to your aspirations in mental health care.
Comprehensive Support
From pre-departure preparation to in-country assistance, our dedicated team supports you every step of the way. We ensure your safety, comfort, and well-being throughout your Mental Health Internship, providing guidance and resources to help you succeed.
Cultural Immersion:
Our Mental Health Internships offer a genuine understanding of the culture and traditions of your host country. This enhances your personal and professional growth, enriching your overall experience and cultural competency as a future mental health professional.
Ethical Practices:
At IMA, we adhere to a strict code of ethics that prioritizes the well-being of our Mental Health Interns, host communities, and healthcare partners. We are committed to creating sustainable, community-driven initiatives that have a lasting positive impact on mental health services.
IMA collaborates with various public and private healthcare facilities to offer diverse and rewarding internship placements for our Mental Health Interns. Depending on your specific interests and skills, you may have the opportunity to work in settings such as:
Hospitals and Clinics
Work alongside experienced psychologists and psychiatrists to assess, treat, and support patients with various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders.
Community Health Programs
Participate in community-based mental health programs that focus on education, prevention, and support for vulnerable populations.
Specialized Mental Health Clinics
Depending on your interests, you may work in clinics focused on areas such as child and adolescent mental health, substance abuse, or geriatric care.
Schools and Educational Settings
Assist in implementing mental health programs in schools, providing counseling and support to students and educators.
Throughout your Mental Health Internship, a team of dedicated healthcare professionals will guide and support you. Working closely with these experienced mentors, you will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of mental health practice in underserved settings.
During your Mental Health Internships, you will stay in carefully selected, modern housing facilities close to your clinical placement. Our accommodations include amenities like comfortable beds, Wi-Fi access, and 24/7 security.
We also offer comprehensive in-country support to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Our local staff will be available to assist you with any questions or concerns, and we provide regular check-ins to ensure your well-being and satisfaction with your placement.
An essential aspect of IMA’s Mental Health Internships is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of our host countries. To enhance your experience, we offer unique adventure programs that allow you to explore the stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures of East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean.
Led by experienced and trusted tour guides, our adventure programs include a range of exciting activities such as wildlife safaris, hiking excursions, and cultural tours. By participating in these programs, you will gain a deeper understanding of your host country’s culture and create lasting memories and friendships with fellow interns and volunteers.
As a Mental Health Intern with IMA, you will play a vital role in improving the mental health and well-being of underserved communities. By sharing your knowledge and skills, you will help individuals manage their mental health conditions, enhance their quality of life, and contribute to the overall development of the communities you work in.
Your internship will also provide valuable personal and professional growth opportunities. By working in challenging and diverse healthcare settings, you will develop essential clinical skills, adapt to new environments, and gain a deeper understanding of global mental health issues. This experience will enrich your resume and inspire you to continue making a difference in the field of mental health care.
IMA is committed to helping our alums reach their academic and career goals. Our graduate school admissions support includes help with the application process, letters of recommendation, and guidance on selecting the best mental health programs to fit each individual’s career objectives. Our mental health alums have been accepted into renowned programs worldwide and have built successful careers. We continue to support our alums even after their internships have concluded.
IMA’s extensive alumni network offers continuous support and guidance, aiding students through the challenging mental health school application process. Our programs provide valuable hands-on clinical experience that educational institutions highly regard. This practical experience sets you apart from other applicants. Through our alumni network, you can connect with other IMA alumni and mental health professionals, gaining mentorship and expanding your professional connections.
Don’t just take our word for it—listen to the experiences of our past healthcare and pre-health interns. Our alumni have pursued successful careers, using the skills and knowledge gained during their internships to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Here are some of our alumni's success stories:
Five words. That’s it. The ultimate definition of short and sweet. At the end of each week during debriefing, we were asked to present the group with five words that encompassed our experience in our respective departments. Every Friday, this…
My experience in Mombasa and CGTRH was priceless. All of the IMA staff were so accommodating and supportive. They always made sure to ask you how you were doing and that you were cared for. I never doubted my safety…
I first started out losing my bags at the airport. Once I finally got them back, the staff was more than happy to pick up my bags twice for me. Javan and Teddy were awesome; I admired their upbeat attitudes…
International Medical Aid offers the Mental Health Internship in diverse clinical settings, providing interns with the opportunity to gain hands‑on experience and develop specialized skills in clinical counseling, community mental health, and research, including the following:
Our Mental Health/Psychology specialty in Adolescent Counseling focuses on addressing the unique emotional and developmental needs of teenagers. Interns learn to provide guidance, crisis intervention, and supportive therapy in school and community settings. Through clinical practice, role-playing scenarios, and interactive seminars, they build the skills to foster resilience and positive mental health in youth.
The AODA specialty emphasizes evidence-based strategies for treating substance use disorders. Interns learn to conduct assessments, develop intervention plans, and support recovery through counseling and group therapy. Clinical rounds, interactive case studies, and supervised practice sessions help them gain practical skills to address complex addiction challenges and promote long-term recovery.
In Pediatric Counseling, interns focus on the emotional and behavioral needs of children. They learn age-appropriate communication, play therapy techniques, and family-centered interventions. Through hands-on clinical practice, interactive workshops, and guided mentorship, participants develop the expertise to support the mental health and well-being of young clients in various settings.
Our Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy specialty trains interns in structured, evidence-based techniques to treat mood, anxiety, and behavioral disorders. Participants learn to identify maladaptive thought patterns and develop strategies for change. They acquire practical skills to deliver effective, goal-oriented therapy in diverse mental health settings through clinical practice, role-playing exercises, and interactive lectures
The Crisis Counseling internship prepares interns to respond to acute emotional distress and traumatic events. Interns learn rapid assessment, de-escalation techniques, and immediate intervention strategies under expert supervision. Through immersive simulations, case studies, and clinical rounds, they develop the skills needed to provide compassionate, timely support during emergencies and crisis situations.
This specialty emphasizes systemic approaches to improve family dynamics and resolve relational conflicts. Interns learn to facilitate communication, mediate disputes, and implement family-based interventions. Through interactive group sessions, case reviews, and supervised practice, they build competencies to guide families toward healthier, more resilient relationships in diverse cultural contexts.
Our PTSD specialty focuses on evidence-based interventions for individuals coping with trauma. Interns learn to recognize symptoms, provide targeted therapy, and support recovery through structured treatment plans. Through clinical practice, case discussions, and interactive workshops, they develop the expertise necessary to help clients overcome traumatic experiences and regain stability.
The Sexual Abuse Treatment internship trains interns to provide sensitive, trauma-informed care to survivors. Participants learn specialized counseling techniques, safety planning, and long-term support strategies. Through supervised clinical practice, interactive role plays, and expert-led seminars, they build the skills required to address the complex emotional and psychological needs of survivors.
Our Women’s Issues/Women’s Abuse specialty focuses on addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by women. Interns learn to provide culturally sensitive counseling, crisis intervention, and empowerment strategies. Through clinical rounds, interactive case studies, and mentorship sessions, they develop the skills to support women in overcoming abuse, trauma, and related mental health challenges.
A comprehensive program designed for undergraduate students aiming to enter medical school. Interns gain exposure to various medical fields, participate in clinical rounds, attend lectures, and engage in community health initiatives.
Tailored for students aspiring to become physician assistants, this internship provides clinical experience across multiple fields, including primary care, emergency medicine, and surgery. Interns work under the guidance of experienced PAs and physicians.
This program offers nursing students and pre-nursing students the chance to work in diverse healthcare settings, gaining hands-on experience in patient care, medical procedures, and community health projects. Interns are mentored by experienced nurses and healthcare professionals.
Designed for students and professionals in dietetics and nutrition, this internship involves working with dietitians in hospitals and clinics to promote community health through nutrition education, dietary planning, and public health initiatives.
This program is aimed at students and professionals in occupational therapy, providing hands-on experience in helping patients recover and improve their ability to perform daily activities. Interns work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community health settings.
Interns in this program work alongside physical therapists to assist patients in recovering from injuries and improving mobility. The internship includes clinical rotations, rehabilitation programs, and community health projects.
This program offers pre-CRNA students, graduate nurse anesthesia students, and licensed CRNAs the chance to work in anesthesia departments in hospitals, gaining hands-on experience in anesthesia administration and patient monitoring.
Designed for pre-optometry students, graduate optometry students, and licensed optometrists, this internship involves working in eye clinics and hospitals to diagnose and treat eye conditions, conduct vision screenings, and provide patient care.
This program provides students and professionals in radiologic technology with experience in medical imaging, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Interns work in hospitals and imaging centers, gaining practical skills in diagnostic imaging.
Aimed at pre-chiropractic students, chiropractic students, and licensed chiropractors, this program offers hands-on experience in chiropractic care, including spinal adjustments, patient consultations, and community health initiatives.
This program is designed for pre-midwifery students, graduate midwifery students, and licensed midwives/nurse-midwives. Interns work in bustling international healthcare environments, providing prenatal care, managing labor and delivery, and addressing postpartum issues under the mentorship of experienced midwives and healthcare professionals. Interns also participate in public health education and community health initiatives, focusing on improving maternal and child health outcomes.
Preparing for Your Mental Health Internship Abroad
Learning About the Host Country
Understand the local mental health practices, cultural norms, and societal values.
Language Proficiency
Enhance your ability to communicate in the local language to better connect with patients and colleagues.
Aligning with Academic Goals
Work with your academic advisor to ensure your internship supports your career and educational aspirations.
Exploring Global Mental Health Issues
Seek additional resources to deepen your understanding of global mental health challenges and practices.
Familiarizing with Local Mental Health Protocols
Understand the mental health protocols and treatment methods in your host country.
Our Mental Health Internship provides a robust foundation in mental health theory and practice through global health lecture series, Harvard HMX online courses, and other educational resources. Interns will:
Mental Health Interns can engage in community medical clinics, women’s health education sessions, hygiene education sessions, and mental health awareness clinics. Through these activities, interns will:
IMA offers adventure consulting to Mental Health Interns, providing opportunities for exploration and relaxation. The program includes excursions, treks, and tours, allowing interns to explore local culture, festivals, and wildlife. These experiences foster personal growth and cultural competency.
To be considered for the Mental Health Internship program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Past Clinical Experience/Deadlines
Our program fees cover various expenses, including housing and meals. We offer financial aid and scholarships to help students finance their internships, along with fundraising resources and tips.
Mental Health internships are available in multiple locations worldwide, with flexible dates to accommodate students’ schedules. Check our website for the latest information on program availability.
Submit personal details, resume, unofficial transcripts, and written responses online.
Participate in a one-hour interview to assess suitability.
Receive a decision within two weeks, completing the admissions process.
Apply Now
Closing SoonApply now to join our Mental Health Internship program and take the first step towards a rewarding career in mental health. Contact us for more information on how we can support your goals.
Undergraduate students pursuing a psychology or mental health track, current graduate psychology students, and recent graduates seeking international clinical exposure in mental health are all eligible. We match each applicant to an internship that aligns with their academic background and career interests.
Submit your application by clicking here. Once your online submission is received, our admissions team will review your application; if selected, you’ll be invited to a one-hour Zoom interview. Successful applicants will then receive an official acceptance letter along with further instructions to finalize enrollment.
Typical requirements include:
Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis, meaning applications are reviewed as received rather than on a fixed deadline. Please visit our Program Dates & Fees page for the most up‑to‑date information.
Although International Medical Aid is a US‑based organization, our Mental Health Psychology cohorts, including many international applicants, are intentionally diverse.
Many interns have successfully used IMA’s Mental Health Psychology Internships to fulfill degree requirements or earn academic credit. We are happy to coordinate with your institution and provide necessary documentation—such as proof of clinical hours, detailed letters outlining responsibilities, and faculty evaluations—to facilitate credit approval.
We offer rotations across multiple specialties, including clinical counseling, community mental health, behavioral research, and public health initiatives focused on mental wellness. You’ll be placed in a setting that complements your skills and career objectives.
IMA admits cohorts ranging from approximately 35 to 70 interns in any given cycle, ensuring ample opportunities to learn and network with peers from diverse backgrounds.
You’ll reside in one of our comfortable Program Residences located in safe neighborhoods within our host countries. Accommodations are shared and include amenities such as Wi-Fi, meals prepared by an in-house chef, laundry facilities, and 24/7 security, fostering a supportive, community-centered environment.
Interns in the Mental Health Internship program typically work 6–8 hours in clinical settings during hospital rotations (for example, from 8 AM to 4 PM) and have afternoon downtime for activities—including our Global Health Lecture Series and Community and Clinical Outreach Activites. There is an option to work one night shift per week, and weekends offer flexibility for excursions or additional clinical work. Your program schedule is tailored with guidance from your Program Mentor. Here is a Sample Program Schedule.
Yes. We support interns through:
Program fees typically include:
We suggest budgeting around $50–$100 per week for personal expenses (e.g., dining out, local transportation, souvenirs, or weekend activities).
Absolutely. IMA maintains a 100% safety rating across all program sites. We prioritize intern safety by selecting secure housing, providing comprehensive orientations, and offering 24/7 in-country support. Our staff is well-versed in local protocols and emergency procedures.
Visa regulations differ by country. Upon acceptance, IMA provides guidance on the visa application process, including required documents and timelines. Interns are responsible for completing any necessary paperwork, but we’ll guide you every step of the way.
If you have further questions or need additional information about International Medical Aid’s Mental Health Psychology Internship Program, please contact our admissions team. We’re here to ensure you have a fulfilling and impactful clinical experience abroad!
International Medical Aid provides an exceptional opportunity for students pursuing healthcare and pre-med internships abroad. By offering hands-on clinical experience, cultural competency, and exposure to global health and healthcare policy, IMA sets its interns apart as competitive and well-rounded medical school candidates.
We encourage students to apply or contact us with any questions they may have about the program. With a commitment to safety, cultural immersion, and academic excellence, IMA offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to gain invaluable experience and make a meaningful impact in their field.
We welcome questions about our programs and respond within 24 hours.
Thank you for your request
We appreciate your interest in our program. Our team will review your message and get back to you as soon as possible. If you have any urgent questions, feel free to reach out to us directly at our contact information provided on our website.
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