Occupational Therapy Internships

Take Your Occupational Therapy Career Global with International Medical Aid

Occupational Therapy Interns will collaborate with skilled therapists in diverse healthcare settings worldwide. They will actively contribute to patient assessments, treatment planning, and therapeutic interventions across rehabilitation, pediatrics, and mental health. Interns will also be able to observe and participate in various patient care activities.

Designed with guidance from leading occupational therapy programs, this internship combines hands-on clinical experience with theoretical learning. Interns will deepen their understanding of occupational therapy principles, refine their practical skills, and immerse themselves in various therapeutic environments. The program is structured to align with each intern’s educational background and career goals, fostering well-rounded professional growth.

Healthcare Internship Program Philosophy

International Medical Aid is a not-for-profit organization founded at Johns Hopkins University that offers Occupational Therapy Internships for undergraduate students, graduate students, and licensed practitioners. These internships provide invaluable hands-on experience in underserved regions such as East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. By participating in our programs, interns can gain exposure to various specialties and make a meaningful impact on disadvantaged populations worldwide.

Discover what's included in our programs and facilities

IMA’s Occupational Therapy Internships provide an outstanding opportunity for interns to gain practical experience, expand their understanding of occupational therapy, and build a global perspective on healthcare. Designed to equip participants for thriving careers in occupational therapy, our programs offer a well-rounded learning experience shaped to meet the individual needs and aspirations of each intern. Highlights of our Occupational Therapy Internships include:

24/7 In-Country and U.S. Based Support

Our dedicated staff is available around the clock to provide support and assistance, ensuring that Occupational Therapy Interns…

Comprehensive Pre-Departure Support

IMA offers thorough pre-departure support to help interns prepare for their overseas experience. This includes assistance with travel…

Flight Selection Guidance via FlightFox

To simplify travel planning, IMA partners with FlightFox, a service that uses a blend of algorithms and human…

Travel Medical Insurance ($1,000,000 Coverage)

IMA provides comprehensive travel medical insurance with $1,000,000 in coverage. This includes emergency medical expenses and evacuation, allowing…

Physician-Led In-Country Orientations

To ensure that Occupational Therapy Interns are well-prepared for their clinical and cultural activities, IMA offers physician-led in-country…

Hospital or Clinic Placement

Interns are placed in hospitals or clinics related to their chosen specialty. Here, they work alongside experienced occupational…

Structured Clinical Rotations

Our Occupational Therapy Internships include structured clinical rotations and therapist shadowing. Interns gain hands-on experience in hospitals and…

Community Medical Clinics and Hygiene Education Program

Interns work with experienced healthcare professionals to deliver quality care to patients in different settings. They also participate…

Global Health Lecture Series

IMA’s Global Health Lecture Series covers various topics related to global health, including healthcare policy and health disparities.…

Dedicated Clinical Mentorship

Interns receive dedicated clinical mentorship from experienced healthcare professionals, providing guidance throughout their clinical experiences. This mentorship helps…

Clinical Simulation Clinics

Occupational Therapy Interns can enhance their knowledge through clinical simulation sessions, gaining hands-on experience in simulated medical scenarios.…

Weekly Cultural Treks

Interns participate in language and cultural immersion activities designed to help them learn about the local culture and…

Weekly Community Outreach

Interns engage in community outreach and volunteering activities. IMA conducts a series of Community Medical Clinics that provide…

Airport Transfers (Arrival & Departure)

IMA ensures a smooth travel experience for interns by providing airport transfers for both arrival and departure. Our…

Private, Chartered Transportation to Placement Location

IMA provides private, chartered transportation to the clinic for each intern. This service ensures safe and efficient travel,…

Shared Accommodation in Gated Community with 24/7 Security Staff

Interns are provided with shared accommodation in a gated community with 24/7 security staff, ensuring a safe and…

HMX Course Study

Occupational Therapy Interns have access to Harvard Medical School’s online courses, covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, and…

Unlimited Wireless Internet Access

IMA provides unlimited wireless internet access to all occupational therapy interns, ensuring they can stay connected with family,…

Local Cell Phone/SIM Card

Occupational Therapy Interns receive a local cell phone and SIM card, facilitating easy communication with colleagues, mentors, and…

Three Daily Meals Prepared by In-House Chef

Participants in the Occupational Therapy Internship receive three daily meals prepared by an in-house chef, ensuring they have…

Weekly Laundry Service

IMA provides weekly laundry service to ensure Occupational Therapy Interns have clean clothes throughout their stay. This service…

Program offerings vary by location. For specific inquiries, please contact admissions@medicalaid.org.

Safety, Accommodations, and Personal Spending

Why Choose IMA for Your Occupational Therapy Internship?

International Medical Aid offers high-quality, ethical, and impactful internship opportunities that benefit both our interns and the communities we serve. By choosing IMA for your Occupational Therapy Internship, you can expect the following:

Hands-on, Immersive Experience

Our internships provide real-world experience in diverse healthcare settings, allowing you to apply your knowledge and skills in practical contexts. This enables you to make meaningful contributions to the lives of those in need.

Personalized Placements

We work closely with each intern to develop a customized placement that aligns with their interests, goals, and level of experience. This ensures a rewarding and fulfilling internship experience.

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 internship.

Cultural Immersion

Our Occupational Therapist Internships offer a genuine understanding of the culture and traditions of your host country. This enhances your personal and professional growth and enriches your overall experience.

Ethical Practices

At IMA, we adhere to a strict code of ethics that prioritizes the well-being of our interns, host communities, and healthcare partners. We are committed to creating sustainable, community-driven initiatives that have a lasting positive impact.

Internship Placements

IMA collaborates with a variety of public and private healthcare facilities to offer diverse and rewarding internship placements for our Occupational Therapy Interns. Depending on your specific interests and skills, you may have the opportunity to work in settings such as:

Hospitals

Work alongside experienced occupational therapists to assess, treat, and rehabilitate patients with conditions like neurological disorders, orthopedic injuries, and developmental disabilities.

Rehabilitation Centers

Help patients regain their independence and improve their quality of life through targeted therapeutic interventions.

Community Outreach Programs

Participate in community-based programs aimed at improving access to healthcare services and promoting health education for vulnerable populations.

Specialized Clinics

Work in clinics focused on specific areas of occupational therapy, such as pediatric, geriatric, or mental health care, depending on your interests and the needs of the host community.

Throughout your 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 occupational therapy practice in underserved settings.

Accommodations and Support

IMA understands the importance of comfortable and secure accommodations for our interns. During your internship, you will stay in carefully selected, modern housing facilities located close to your clinical placement. Our accommodations include essential amenities such as 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 placemen

Cultural Immersion and Adventure Programs

Our Occupational Therapy Internships are an 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.

Our adventure programs, led by experienced and trusted tour guides, include a range of exciting activities such as wildlife safaris, hiking excursions, and cultural tours. Participating in these programs will give you a deeper understanding of your host country’s culture and create lasting memories and friendships with fellow interns and volunteers.

Making a Difference

As an Occupational Therapy Intern with IMA, you will play a vital role in improving the health and well-being of underserved communities. By sharing your knowledge and skills, you will help individuals with disabilities and injuries regain their independence, 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 health issues. This experience will enrich your resume and inspire you to continue making a difference in the field of occupational therapy.

Alumni Graduate School Admissions Support

IMA is committed to helping our alumni 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 occupational therapy programs to fit each individual’s career objectives. Our occupational therapy alumni have been accepted into renowned programs worldwide and have built successful careers in their field. We continue to support our alumni even after their internships have concluded.

Alumni Network

IMA’s extensive alumni network offers continuous support and guidance, aiding students through the challenging occupational therapy school application process. Our programs provide valuable hands-on clinical experience that is highly regarded by educational institutions. This practical experience sets you apart from other applicants. Through our alumni network, you can connect with other IMA alumni and occupational therapy professionals, gaining mentorship and expanding your professional connections.

Hear From Our Alumni

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:

To say my experience in Kenya was amazing would be an understatement. My experience in Kenya with IMA was truly life changing. It opened my eyes to many things including the differences in health care delivery, culture, politics, disease burden and much more. My first day in Kenya I was welcomed at the airport by IMA staff, they immediately made me feel welcome and safe. All Kenyans truly made me ...

Judy Birchmier

Morningside College

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My accommodations were better than when I go on a personal vacation: always got the best food, having a chef allowed us to get to taste so many different food from the country, beautiful home, so comfortable, absolutely felt like a home away from home! There is so much support from the IMA crew, always someone there for you, they even provide you with a SIM card to make sure you have a way to comm...

Sarah B.

University of Ottawa

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My experience in Mombasa was life changing. The people I met and all that I learned while working at CPGH was irreplaceable. I worked in the nutrition department at CPGH and saw so many different types of conditions and learned so much about the health care system in Kenya. The support from the International Medical Aid’s staff was amazing. Bella and Husna were always there when I needed somethi...

Isabelle Hammack

San Francisco State University

Read the Full Story

I loved every moment and every aspect of working with International Medical Aid! The staff of program mentors and interns was incredible. They were extremely efficient and made everything run smoothly, ensuring the success and well-being of each volunteer. They were so kind and I always felt welcomed and encouraged! The living accommodations and food were also great! Joshua and the support staff w...

Jessica Byrne

University of Delaware

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Alumni Experiences & Testimonials

Claire DaValle

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…

Hailey Ficken

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…

Stefany Matute

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…

200+ reviews | 10.0/10

OPEN OPPORTUNITIES

International Medical Aid Specialties and Internship Opportunities

International Medical Aid offers the Occupational Therapy Internship in various clinical settings, providing interns with the opportunity to gain hands‑on experience and develop specialized skills in areas such as rehabilitation, community health, and adaptive technologies, including the following:

Specialties Available

Pediatric Occupational Therapy

The Pediatric Occupational Therapy internship focuses on developmental support and early intervention for children. Interns learn to assess fine motor skills, design therapeutic activities, and support daily functional development. Through hands-on practice, interactive case studies, and collaborative sessions with experienced therapists, they build the expertise to foster improved independence in young patients.

Geriatric Occupational Therapy

In our Geriatric Occupational Therapy specialty, interns focus on functional rehabilitation tailored to seniors. They learn strategies to improve daily living activities, manage chronic conditions, and enhance overall quality of life. Through clinical rounds, practical workshops, and mentorship, participants gain hands-on experience in designing adaptive interventions for aging populations.

Hand Therapy

The Hand Therapy internship targets fine motor skills recovery and upper-extremity rehabilitation. Interns learn specialized techniques to improve dexterity and function after injury or surgery. Through intensive clinical practice, interactive workshops, and expert guidance, they develop targeted interventions to restore hand strength and coordination, enhancing overall patient independence and quality of life.

Neuro‑Rehabilitation

Our Neuro‑Rehabilitation program focuses on cognitive and motor recovery after neurological injuries. Interns learn to design individualized therapy plans, utilize adaptive techniques, and monitor progress under expert supervision. Participation in multidisciplinary rounds, hands‑on practice, and interactive case reviews ensures they gain the specialized skills necessary for comprehensive neurological rehabilitation.

Available International Medical Aid Internships

Pre-Medicine (Pre-Med) Internship

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.

Pre-Physician Assistant (Pre-PA) Internship

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.

Nursing/Pre-Nursing Internship

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.

Nutritionist/Dietetics Internship

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.

Physical Therapy Internship

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.

Mental Health Internship

Focused on psychology, psychiatry, and social work, this internship allows students to work in mental health clinics, hospitals, and community health centers, providing support and treatment to individuals with mental health issues.

CRNA (Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist) Internship

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.

Pre-Optometry/Optometry Internship

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.

Pre-Radiologic Technology Internship

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.

Chiropractic Internship

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.

Midwifery Internship

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.

Overall, IMA’s Occupational Therapy Internship provides diverse clinical exposure in rehabilitation and patient care. It offers students the opportunity to gain valuable experience and knowledge in occupational therapy—making them better equipped to pursue a career in this field.

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Preparing for Your Occupational Therapy Internship Abroad

Once you have been accepted into an IMA Occupational Therapy Internship Program, it’s time to prepare for the unique challenges and opportunities of working in a global healthcare setting. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

Researching the Country and Culture

Familiarize yourself with local customs, healthcare systems, and cultural norms to better connect with your patients and colleagues.

Improving Language Skills:

If needed, enhance your language proficiency to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals.

Consulting with Your Academic Advisor

Ensure your internship aligns with your academic requirements and professional goals by discussing your plans with your academic advisor.

Exploring Additional Educational Resources

Seek out resources to deepen your knowledge of global health issues and occupational therapy practices.

Reviewing Relevant Occupational Therapy Protocols

Familiarize yourself with the occupational therapy practices and protocols specific to your host country.

By following these steps and collaborating with the IMA team, you can make the most of your Occupational Therapy Internship abroad.

Didactic Experiences

Our Occupational Therapy Internship provides students with a solid foundation in medical theory and practice through our global health lecture series, Harvard HMX online courses, and other learning opportunities. Interns can expect to:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of medical theory and practice
Develop clinical skills in various medical fields
Enhance understanding of global health issues and healthcare systems

Community Outreach/Volunteering Abroad

Occupational Therapy interns can participate in community medical clinics, women’s health education sessions, hygiene education sessions, and mental health awareness clinics. Through these activities, interns will:

Develop cross-cultural competencies
Gain hands-on experience in community outreach and global health initiatives
Make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals in underserved communities

IMA Adventure Consulting

To help Occupational Therapy Interns unwind and recharge, IMA offers adventure and exploration opportunities. The program includes excursions, treks, and tours, allowing interns to experience local culture, festivals, and wildlife. These adventures provide unique opportunities for personal growth and cultural competency development.

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Application Requirements

To be considered for the Occupational Therapy Internship program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Actively Pursuing a Career in Healthcare
Written Responses to Application Questions
Unofficial Academic Transcripts
Current Resume
English Proficiency
Two Years of Spanish Language Experience (Only Programs in South America)
Programs Open To Citizens of All Countries

Past Clinical Experience/Deadlines

Not Required for High-School or Undergraduate Students
Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis. Visit our Program Dates section for current dates and deadlines.

Program Fees and Financial Aid

IMA provides a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to qualified students. Guidance on visa requirements and the application process is also provided, ensuring a smooth experience.

Program Dates and Locations

Occupational Therapy Internships are available in multiple locations worldwide, with flexible dates to accommodate students’ schedules. Check our website for the latest information on program availability.

Application process

Step 1

Initial application

Submit personal details, resume, unofficial transcripts, and written responses online.

Step 2

Zoom interview

Participate in a one-hour interview to assess suitability.

Step 3

Application decision

Receive a decision within two weeks, completing the admissions process.

Apply Now

Closing soon.

Apply now to join our Occupational Therapy Internship program and start your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare. Contact us for more information on how we can support your goals.

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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About IMA Occupational Therapy Internship Program

Eligibility and Application Process Program Details and Structure Financial Aid and Costs Safety and Support

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International Medical Aid Internship Opportunity

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.

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