Psychology internships in Valencia, Spain open the door to hands-on experience with skilled local therapists in private clinics, non-profits, social services, and healthcare centers. Eager to stand out in a competitive job market and grow her professional brand, Alice took a bold step outside her comfort zone by joining a 12-week Psychology internship abroad. Read on to discover how her journey in Valencia led to real-world learning, meaningful mentorship, and personal growth.
Hi Alice! Tell us, what kind of tasks were you involved in?
During my international internship, I took part in a variety of clinical, community, and educational projects that helped shape both my professional identity and practical skills as a future psychologist.
I participated in case supervision meetings where I learned the importance of ethical practice and confidentiality.
I co-designed and delivered psychoeducational workshops on emotional dependence, anxiety, procrastination, and more.
I was also involved in community outreach, delivering mental health workshops in schools, and supported a workplace well-being program for employees.
One of my proudest accomplishments was co-creating and facilitating Raíces en Movimiento, a psychosocial group program supporting migrant women through grief and cultural adjustment.
Through clinical observation and team collaboration, I gained exposure to different therapeutic modalities and learned how to build a private practice, including ethical social media use and patient outreach.
What strategies did you use to get the most out of your Psychology internship?
During my internship placement, I made a conscious effort to contribute to a healthy and respectful environment, both for myself and for those around me.
One of the main steps I took was to always communicate clearly and directly. I believe that open communication is essential in any professional setting, so I tried to express my thoughts and ideas out loud, without fear of judgment. At the same time, I was careful to remain empathetic and warm, making sure that my words and actions reflected respect for others’ perspectives and emotions.
I also tried to create a calm and collaborative atmosphere by being approachable and supportive with colleagues and other interns. Whether it was offering help with tasks, asking thoughtful questions during supervision, or simply checking in with others, I aimed to contribute to a positive group dynamic.
How did your internship evolve?
Before I began my Psychology internship, I had many ideas and high hopes about what it would be like. However, once I started, I quickly realized the importance of adapting to the needs of the company and the specific responsibilities of my role.
In an internship, there’s always something to do. In my case, my main focus was working on different projects, but I also tried to take initiative by proposing new ideas whenever I could.
Being flexible, open-minded, and proactive has helped me get the most out of the experience and contribute meaningfully to the team.
One important piece of advice I would give is to have realistic expectations. It’s natural to have big dreams and set high expectations for yourself, (especially when starting something new like an internship), but it’s important to walk before you run.
How did the Psychology internship contribute to your career goals?
My internship abroad played a major role in helping me work toward my long-term goals. It gave me the opportunity to face different real-world situations and interact directly with people in need. I learnt how to build genuine connections, listen actively, and understand the emotions and challenges of those I supported.
I also worked on various projects that broadened my skills in areas that are often overlooked in the field of psychology. I used tools like AI, Canva, and others — resources that some psychologists might not prioritize because they can seem “superficial” — but I believe they are powerful when used thoughtfully to support communication and outreach.
Overall, this internship in Spain helped me to grow, not only in technical knowledge, but also in human connection, preparing me to make a real impact in my future career.
How do you feel having completed your internship abroad?
After this internship abroad, I feel much more empowered to succeed in my field. Being able to connect with people on an emotional level, support them through their challenges, and witness the impact of my presence made me realize how meaningful this work is. It gave me confidence in my ability to communicate effectively, even in another language, and to adapt to different situations.
These experiences strengthened both my practical skills and my sense of purpose, making me feel more prepared and motivated to pursue a career in psychology. Adjusting back to a more routine rhythm, without that same level of engagement and intensity, will definitely be challenging. I’ll also miss the opportunity to speak another language and immerse myself in a different culture every day.
What advice do you have for other Psychology interns?
My advice to someone starting a psychology internship in a culturally diverse environment would be: go in with an open mind and be ready to listen. One of the most important things I’ve learned during my internship in Spain is that being respectful, and curious about others helps build strong connections, even when there’s a language barrier.
Don’t be afraid to participate, even if you’re still learning the language or the workplace culture - it shows interest and willingness to learn. Try to observe how people interact, adapt your behavior when needed, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Also, make the effort to understand your colleagues’ needs and goals - it shows you care, and it helps you contribute more meaningfully to the team. Most of all, enjoy the experience! Learning from other cultures is not just useful professionally, but also personally enriching.
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