Are you a current psychology student, or a recent graduate? Looking to gain psychology work experience in Jamaica? Then this internship is ideal for you. You’ll be able to put your theoretical knowledge into practice while helping people in need of treatment for mental illness.
In order to join this project, you need to be studying social work, psychology or guidance counseling, or have a qualification in one of these fields.
You will work alongside qualified local professionals during your time in Jamaica. Furthermore, you will have a Projects Abroad supervisor who will ensure that you get the most out of your placement. You will receive a thorough induction upon arrival, to ensure you are prepared before you begin working with patients.
There are two different options on this internship. Depending on your skills and experience, you can either work in a mental health clinic and hospital, or take part in outreach work in the local community. Tasks will include:
Interacting with and support patients
Whichever internship option you choose, you’ll get the chance to interact with patients who have a variety of different conditions. At the mental health clinic, you will spend time interviewing patients, engaging children in the reception area, visiting patients in the hospital, and taking part in play therapy. If you choose the community-based option, you’ll take part in supervised home visits, and conduct conducting individual or group counselling sessions.
Observing clinical assessments and play therapy
At the mental health clinic, you will have the chance to observe clinical assessments of patients. This gives you great insight into how psychologists diagnose and treat people with mental illness. You may also have the opportunity to observe play therapy sessions, or take part in them, as mentioned above.
Conducting educational sessions about mental health issues
Raising awareness about mental health is important when it comes to breaking stigmas and helping people to identify signs of mental illness. Those who choose to work in the local community will conduct classroom guidance sessions, as well as parenting workshops, at a local high school. Topics will include self-esteem, anger management, conflict resolution, child abuse, and adjustment issues.
Assisting with planning for different events
At the mental health clinic, you may also spend time planning and conducting workshops and presentations. Interns based in the community will also do something similar, assisting with the planning and running of seminars and special events. The overall aim is to educate people about mental illness, from treatment options to prevention.
Conducting research and data analysis
For interns at the mental health clinic, you may find yourself helping with research and data analysis. This research will focus on mental illness in the Jamaican context. You will examine risk factors and the affected or at-risk population, for example. The data will be then used for policy drafts or designing mental health programmes.
