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.
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.
International Medical Aid prioritizes the security of its mental health interns. We work with experienced local staff to ensure that all program locations are safe and supportive. IMA maintains a high safety rating and offers a detailed safety page to address any questions or concerns.
Mental Health Interns are accommodated in program residences located in secure and convenient areas. These residences support a small group of interns, fostering a collaborative and immersive environment. Interns are responsible for managing their personal spending budgets, including meals, local transportation, and personal items. IMA provides comprehensive budget guidelines for each location to assist interns with financial planning.
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 – hear from our past participants about their experience with International Medical Aid.
Our alumni have gone on to pursue successful careers in medicine and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Here are a few of our favorite success stories:
International Medical Aid offers healthcare and Pre-med internships in various medical specialties, providing students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in clinical settings and develop specialized skills, including the following:
Our Pediatrics Internship offers an immersive experience in renowned children’s hospitals. Interns collaborate with pediatricians to diagnose and treat a range of conditions in children and adolescents. They will join medical rounds, participate in lectures, and observe procedures unique to pediatric care
Our Internal Medicine Internship allows interns to engage with experienced internists, focusing on diagnosing and managing diseases affecting internal organs. Interns participate in clinical rounds, attend specialized conferences, and observe diagnostic procedures like imaging studies and endoscopies.
In our Cardiology Internship, participants work alongside seasoned cardiologists in leading hospitals. Interns learn to diagnose and treat heart-related conditions, participate in medical rounds, attend lectures, and observe procedures such as ECGs and echocardiograms.
Our Dermatology Internship provides the chance to work with experienced dermatologists to understand and treat various skin conditions, from acne to skin cancer. Interns will observe procedures, participate in medical rounds, and attend specialized dermatology conferences.
Interns in the Emergency Medicine Internship Program gain firsthand experience in fast-paced emergency departments. They work with emergency physicians and nurses, learning to manage urgent medical cases. Participation includes medical rounds, lectures, and observing emergency procedures.
Our Gynecology Internship offers a focus on women’s reproductive health. Interns work with gynecologists in clinics or hospitals, participating in medical rounds, observing procedures like pelvic exams and ultrasounds, and attending relevant lectures.
Interns in our Endocrinology Internship Program collaborate with endocrinologists to understand hormonal disorders. The experience includes participating in medical rounds, observing diagnostic tests, and attending specialized endocrinology conferences.
In our Oncology Internship, participants work in leading oncology clinics or hospitals. Interns learn about cancer treatment and diagnosis, participate in medical rounds, observe procedures like biopsies and chemotherapy, and attend oncology lectures.
Our OBGYN Internship offers extensive exposure to prenatal care, labor, and gynecological health. Interns work alongside obstetricians and gynecologists, attending medical rounds, observing deliveries and surgeries, and participating in related lectures.
This internship provides experience in diagnosing and treating tropical diseases. Interns work in healthcare settings in tropical regions, learning about disease prevention and control, participating in medical rounds, and attending tropical medicine lectures.
Interns in our Radiology Internship Program work with radiologists to interpret imaging studies. The experience includes participating in medical rounds, observing interventional radiology procedures, and attending radiology conferences.
Our Surgery Internships offer hands-on experience in various surgical specialties. Interns assist in operating rooms, participate in medical rounds, and attend surgical conferences. Available surgical specialties include:
This specialty focuses on surgeries involving the heart and lungs. Interns observe procedures such as bypass grafting and lung resections, participate in rounds, and attend cardiothoracic surgery lectures.
Neurosurgery Interns observe brain and spinal surgeries, participate in medical rounds, and attend neurosurgery conferences, gaining insight into advanced neurosurgical techniques.
Orthopedic Surgery Interns assist in procedures like joint replacements and fracture repairs, participate in medical rounds, and attend orthopedic surgery lectures to learn about musculoskeletal treatments.
Involves administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgeries. Interns observe anesthetic procedures, participate in rounds, and attend anesthesiology lectures to learn about pain management and patient care.
Focuses on studying disease patterns. Interns work with epidemiologists in data collection, outbreak investigation, and public health initiatives, learning about disease prevention methods.
Neurology Interns learn about nervous system disorders, participate in rounds, observe diagnostic tests, and attend neurology conferences to understand conditions like epilepsy and stroke.
Involves diagnosing and treating eye conditions. Interns work with ophthalmologists, observe eye surgeries, participate in rounds, and attend ophthalmology lectures to learn about eye health and treatments.
By participating in these internships, students gain valuable experience and knowledge in their chosen specialty, better preparing them for careers in medicine or healthcare. With a wide range of specialties available, IMA ensures a diverse and enriching experience for all interns.
Designed for undergraduate students aiming for medical school, this program offers exposure to multiple medical fields. Interns participate in clinical rounds, attend lectures, and engage in community health initiatives.
For students aspiring to be physician assistants, this program offers clinical experience in primary care, emergency medicine, and surgery. Interns work under the guidance of experienced PAs and physicians.
This program provides nursing and pre-nursing students with hands-on experience in patient care and medical procedures. Interns work in diverse healthcare settings under the mentorship of experienced nurses.
Designed for students in dietetics and nutrition, this internship involves working with dietitians to promote community health through nutrition education and dietary planning.
This program offers experience in helping patients recover and improve daily activities. Interns work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community health settings.
Interns work alongside physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility. The program includes clinical rotations, rehabilitation programs, and community health projects.
This program offers experience in anesthesia administration and patient monitoring. It is designed for pre-CRNA students, graduate nurse anesthesia students, and licensed CRNAs.
Designed for pre-optometry students and licensed optometrists, this program involves working in eye clinics to diagnose and treat eye conditions, conduct vision screenings, and provide patient care.
Provides experience in medical imaging, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Interns work in hospitals and imaging centers to gain practical skills in diagnostic imaging.
Offers hands-on experience in chiropractic care, including spinal adjustments and patient consultations. The program is aimed at pre-chiropractic students, chiropractic students, and licensed chiropractors.
Designed for pre-midwifery students and licensed midwives, this program involves prenatal care, labor management, and postpartum care. Interns participate in public health education and community health initiatives.
Preparing for Your Mental Health Internship Abroad
Learning About the Host Country
Language Proficiency
Aligning with Academic Goals
Exploring Global Mental Health Issues
Familiarizing with Local Mental Health Protocols
To be considered for the Mental Health Internship program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Basic medical training or experience
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.
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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.
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