Tag: physical therapy internship

Physical Therapy in Belize: An Interview on Impact, Learning, and Connection Through Therapy Abroad

Physical therapy in Belize offers a unique opportunity to combine clinical education, cultural humility, and meaningful community engagement. In many parts of Belize, individuals recovering from stroke, injury, or chronic illness face limited access to rehabilitation services. Through partnerships with local providers and community organizations, Therapy Abroad supports sustainable models of care while offering immersive learning experiences for physical therapy students and faculty.

Physical therapy in Belize challenges students to think creatively, adapt evidence-based practice in low-resource environments, and engage directly with patients and families in ways that extend far beyond traditional classroom learning. To better understand the value of this experience, I spoke with Rebecca Medendorp, a professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at High Point University, who has been traveling to Belize with Therapy Abroad for the past three years.

Kris: You have been bringing physical therapy students to Belize for several years now. What makes traveling with Therapy Abroad unique for you and your students?

Rebecca: What makes Therapy Abroad different and special is the amazing amount of support. That support starts long before the trip and continues once we are on the ground. There are local experts who know the area, know the patients, and know the community. They help connect us with appropriate patients and guide us through where we are staying and working. Therapy Abroad supports us on multiple levels and makes it really easy to prepare for these trips and focus on student learning.

Kris: You mentioned that there are many moments that stay with you. Is there one story from Belize that you will always take home with you?

Rebecca: There are honestly hundreds of stories, but one that really stands out is a man who had suffered a stroke. He had been sent home from the hospital and had been using a wheelchair for over a month. We were the first people to get him back up on his feet and show his family that he could potentially regain the ability to walk. His family was crying, we were crying. It was incredibly powerful to see that hope and to watch the patient realize that there was a future where he could walk again. It was also special to see the students be the ones to help provide that hope.

Kris: What has been your proudest moment watching students during these trips?

Rebecca: I love seeing the light bulbs go off for students. They usually have some clinical experience before coming, but this environment is very different. We have limited equipment and limited resources, so students have to rely on their hands and their creativity. Watching them realize that they can still make a real impact, even as students, is incredibly rewarding to be a part of.

Kris: Not every moment is serious. What made you laugh the hardest on this trip?

Rebecca: A lot of our funniest moments have involved tarantulas. It usually means turning over a trash can and escorting a fuzzy critter out of the room. Most of my tear-laughing, belly-laughing moments in Belize have involved tarantulas. I will say, though, I have only seen two in three years, so you might not even see one at all.

Kris: After returning multiple years, what do you feel most proud of when you are in Belize?

Rebecca: I feel most proud of the connections we make. We build relationships with patients and get to see them again in future years. They give us updates on their families and their lives, and we see how we have impacted them. The connections with the local staff and skilled nursing facilities are also very real. I still reach out to many of those people to this day. There are lots of hugs, lots of tears, and a lot of genuine appreciation.

Kris: If you had to describe this experience in one word, what would it be?

Rebecca: Impact. We are there for about a week, but the impact on student learning, on patients, and on the community is life-changing.

Physical therapy in Belize illustrates how short-term global programs can produce long-term outcomes when they are grounded in partnership, reflection, and community trust. For students, these experiences foster clinical confidence, adaptability, and professional identity. For communities, they expand access to care and reinforce collaborative relationships that continue year after year.

Programs like physical therapy in Belize through Therapy Abroad demonstrate that global clinical education is not about observation alone. It is about contribution, connection, and impact that extends well beyond the duration of the trip.

If you are a student, educator, or clinician seeking a global experience rooted in ethical engagement and meaningful learning, physical therapy in Belize offers a powerful model for what international education can be.

Global Health. Local Impact.

Filed under: Physical Therapy Abroad, Academic Insights, Graduate School, Professional PerspectivesTagged with: , , ,

Why a Physical Therapy Internship Sets You Apart, and Where to Complete One

therapist assisting patient

A physical therapy internship is an excellent opportunity. To gain valuable experience in the physical therapy field. Completing an internship not only provides hands-on training and knowledge. But also sets you apart from other physical therapists.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss why physical therapy internships are beneficial. And provide helpful tips on where to complete one.

What is Physical Therapy Internship

A physical therapy internship is a program designed to provide hands-on training. And experience in the field of physical therapy. Internships last anywhere between three months to one year. Depending on the type of internship program selected. During your internship, you may work with other professionals in a clinical setting. And shadow physicians or therapists to gain experience. You may also complete tasks such as helping patients with physical therapy exercises. Including documenting patient progress, and developing treatment plans.

Should I Complete a Physical Therapy Internship?

Pursuing a career in physical therapy is the goal of many aspiring professionals. And a physical therapy internship can provide unparalleled access to on-site learning opportunities. With an internship, applicants can find ways to improve their existing expertise. If you are wondering how to get a physical therapy internship, there are many job postings online.

It’s also beneficial to connect with current physical therapists in your area. And ask how they got their positions. And what other strategies could be beneficial when applying for an internship. When you decide if a physical therapy internship is the right route for you. Remember that gaining real-world experience can do wonders for your professional development!

How do I Choose a Good Internship?

When you find an internship opportunity. Be sure to read all the requirements and qualifications. So that you can select one that best meets your interests. Consider things like internship location and internship duration. And internship duties before applying for a physical therapy internship. Ask questions about the program such as what skills you will learn. And how often you will be expected to attend sessions.

Make sure to research the internship provider as well. And read any reviews or testimonials from former interns. To gain a better understanding of the internship program itself. By conducting thorough research and speaking with experts in the field. You can ensure that you select an internship for physical therapy. That will best benefit your development as a physical therapist. You want to make sure that the internship program offers an enriching experience. And challenges you to grow your knowledge and skills as a physical therapist.

A physical therapy internship is an excellent way to gain hands-on experience. In the field of physical therapy with the right internship. You can gain valuable experience that will set you apart as a physical therapist!

Therapy Abroad’s Physical Therapy Internship Program

Therapy Abroad offers physical therapy internships for physical therapists. And physical therapy students around the world. Their program is designed to provide a unique opportunity for physical therapy professionals. To gain hands-on experience in the physical therapy field while exploring a new culture.

This physical therapy internship abroad allows you to work with physical therapists. From different countries and learn physical therapy techniques from all over the world. Therapy Abroad’s physical therapy internships provide an opportunity for physical therapists. And physical therapy students gain clinical experience. By observing physical therapists in clinics, hospitals, rehab centers, and other healthcare facilities. You will also have the chance to take part in physical therapy research projects. Therapy Abroad’s physical therapy internships are the perfect way to gain insight. Into physical therapy practices around the world. While also learning on-site physical therapy techniques. With this program, you can become a global physical therapist and make a difference in people’s lives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Physical Therapy Internship

  • What are the Requirements?

The requirements for physical therapy internships vary depending on the program. Most programs need that all applicants be currently enrolled. In an accredited physical therapy program. Some may also need that you have previous experience. Or knowledge of physical therapy techniques and practices. Additionally, some internships will also require a current CPR certification and background check.

  • What Will My Responsibilities Be?

Your responsibilities as a physical therapy intern will vary depending on the program. You can expect to observe physical therapy sessions and learn from experienced practitioners. You may also be responsible for assisting with physical therapy research projects. Or helping to create treatment plans for patients.

  • When Is the Best Time to Pursue a Physical Therapy Internship?

The best time to pursue a physical therapy internship is during your final year of physical therapy school or after you have graduated. This will give you the most up-to-date skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field.

  • Why Take a Physical Therapy Internship Abroad?

Taking a physical therapy internship abroad offers several unique benefits. It gives you the opportunity to work with different cultures and healthcare systems. As well as gain insight into various practices of physical therapy around the world.

Discover the Perfect Internship Opportunities with Therapy Abroad

Therapy Abroad provides physical therapists and physical therapy students around the world. Physical therapy for undergraduates allows them to gain hands-on experience. In physical therapy, while exploring a new culture.

Whether physical therapy is something you’ve already studied. Or something you’re looking to explore. Therapy Abroad also provides speech-language pathology internships. Take advantage of the unique physical therapy internship opportunities that Therapy Abroad offers. And start building your physical therapy career today. Contact us now!

Filed under: Physical Therapy AbroadTagged with: ,