Intern Abroad HQ’s Psychology internships in Zanzibar offer an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich cultural landscape while exploring the complex intersection of traditional beliefs and modern mental health care. Interns gain firsthand experience in how local psychologists bridge cultural norms and effective mental health treatment.
Motivated by a desire for personal growth, stronger communication skills, and deeper insight into the global mental health landscape, Shonda set off to experience an 8-week Psychology internship in Zanzibar. Read on to learn how she expanded her worldview, deepened her understanding of cross-cultural mental health challenges, and sharpened her ability to provide empathetic, effective care in diverse settings.
Hi Shonda! What were your responsibilities during the Psychology internship?
As a mental health intern in a low-resource hospital, I supported clinical staff in providing psychiatric care, psychoeducation, and psychosocial support. My Psychology internship responsibilities included assisting with patient assessments, facilitating therapeutic groups, contributing to family education, and engaging in community outreach to reduce stigma and promote mental health awareness.
I also interned in the hospital’s methadone clinic, where I assisted with patient monitoring, methadone administration, and documentation. Additionally, I accompanied staff on home and prison visits to deliver treatment and assess patient progress in hard-to-reach populations.
My international background brought fresh perspectives on patient engagement, harm reduction, and mental health education. This fostered cross-cultural exchange and helped identify opportunities for procedural improvements. By combining local expertise with global practices, I contributed to the development of more inclusive and effective care models.
How did your expectations of an internship abroad compare with the reality of your Psychology internship in Zanzibar?
When I first arrived in Zanzibar for a Psychology internship, I expected a more structured role with a defined schedule, clear tasks, and a direct impact on patient care. However, I quickly learned that flexibility was essential. The pace of work, daily routines, and priorities were shaped by local customs, religious practices, and resource limitations. My role as a Psychology intern became less about direct intervention and more about observing, listening, and adapting.
Understanding the context and building trust were just as important - if not more so - than offering immediate therapeutic input. Learning why things were done a certain way became key to contributing meaningfully.
In what ways do you feel more empowered since your Psychology internship?
This international internship experience has made me feel more confident in my ability to succeed in the mental health field. Working in a low-resource setting required adaptability, creativity, and the ability to contribute meaningfully even without ideal tools or systems in place.
As a result of this Psychology internship, I’ve grown more comfortable leading sessions, collaborating with local professionals, and recognizing the tangible impact of my presence. I’ve also become aware of the limits of my current training, which has motivated me to continue learning and developing.
Overall, the internship proved that I could overcome challenges, build cross-cultural relationships, and make a positive contribution wherever I go.
What advice would you give to someone considering the same internship?
Come into a Psychology internship with an open mind and leave any of your rigid expectations behind. Understand that things may move at a different pace than you’re used to, and that your most valuable contribution might be your patience, respect, and curiosity.
Celebrate small wins - whether it’s a meaningful conversation in Swahili or being invited to observe a culturally significant event - because these moments often carry the greatest impact. And recognize that the most profound growth may be the learning you take home, not just the help you provide.
Now that your Psychology internship is complete, what’s next for you?
After completing this Intern Abroad program, I plan to continue building on the lessons I learned in Zanzibar - both personally and professionally. I aim to carry forward the adaptability, empathy, and resourcefulness I developed during this internship into all future roles.
Personally, I will continue to seek experiences that push me outside my comfort zone - through international work, community engagement, or research - to further strengthen my resilience and perspective.
This internship has laid the foundation for a career rooted in service, cultural understanding, and lifelong learning. My long-term goal is to pursue advanced training in clinical psychology, focusing on cross-cultural mental health and addiction services.
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