Occupational Therapist Intern

Occupational Therapist Intern

Overview:

This internship introduces high school students to the field of occupational therapy (OT). Interns will observe licensed occupational therapists as they help patients develop, recover, and improve daily living and working skills. This experience will give students a behind-the-scenes look at healthcare, rehabilitation, and patient support.

Responsibilities May Include:

· Shadow occupational therapists during therapy sessions with children, adults, or seniors

· Observe how therapists use activities and tools to build motor skills, coordination, and independence

· Assist with preparing therapy spaces, organizing materials, and cleaning equipment

· Learn about documentation and professional communication in a healthcare setting

· Observe how therapists adapt environments or activities to meet patient needs

· Support staff with non-clinical tasks as appropriate

· Completing assignments, reflection journals, or internship workbook entries as required by the program

Learning Outcomes:

· Understand the role of occupational therapy in healthcare and rehabilitation

· Gain awareness of different patient populations and their unique needs

· Learn about therapeutic tools, activities, and adaptive equipment

· Develop an appreciation for communication, patience, and creativity in patient care

· Explore educational and career pathways in occupational therapy and related fields

Preferred Skills/Interests:

· Interest in healthcare, therapy, or helping others

· Respect for patient confidentiality and professionalism (HIPAA compliance)

· Good listening skills and willingness to learn

· Patience, empathy, and curiosity about how people adapt and succeed in daily life

Additional Information:

· Interns will primarily observe and assist with support tasks; no direct patient treatment will be performed

· Compliance with dress code, safety guidelines, and confidentiality requirements is expected

· Some placements may require health screenings or background checks before starting

Notice on Internship Opportunities

Please note that internship opportunities will vary by host site and county.

· Not all career areas or placements will be available in every location.

· Host sites may have different requirements, schedules, responsibilities.

· Opportunities depend on local partnerships, availability, and community resources.

Students are encouraged to remain flexible and open to a variety of learning experiences. Each internship is designed to provide valuable workplace skills, career exploration, and professional growth - regardless of the specific placement.

THIS DESCRIPTION DOES NOT LIST ALL DUTIES. INTERN MAY BE ASKED TO PERFORM OTHER DUTIES BY THE STAFF OR SUPERVISOR. INTERN WILL BE EVALUATED ON PERFORMANCE OF THE PROJECTS LISTED AS WELL AS INTERACTION WITH EMPLOYEES AND CLIENTS. ON-SITE HOURS WILL BE NEGOTIATED WITH EACH CANDIDATE.

SAFETY EXPECTATIONS, INCLUDING HARASSMENT, SHOULD BE REVIEWED WITH THE HOST.

« back to listing