GoAbroad

Counseling Internships Abroad

Are you a psychology, social work, or health major passionate about mental health, social justice, and international travel? Consider finding counseling internships abroad! You’re in the right place to discover top opportunities that will help you break the “need-experience-to-get-experience” cycle after graduation. An international internship is a great way to stand out from your peers. Here’s your ultimate guide to finding the best counseling internships abroad.
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164 Counseling Internships Abroad

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VACorps

9.75

507

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in South Africa 2025
VACorps Professional Internship Program

As a participant of our program in Cape Town, South Africa, you tell us what type of internship experience you are looking for, and we will create a tailored placement based on your specific interests. We’ll place you within an environment where you will make a positive contribution to your host organization while gaining invaluable and distinctive international work experience. We find placements for any type of participant, regardless of the area of study or professional focus. We only offer internships in Cape Town because, quite simply, this is the most beautiful and dynamic city in the world. Visit our program testimonials to learn more about why our participants regularly have life-changing experiences in our program.

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The Intern Group

9.1

167

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in United States 2025
Internships in New York

Experience New York City, the world’s financial and business capital, with a career-boosting international internship. NYC provides unparalleled opportunities to gain professional skills, global connections, and real-world experience across finance, business, marketing, PR, tech, NGOs, and more. Our program partners with 3,000+ leading companies and NGOs worldwide, offering internships tailored to your career goals. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or professional, you can build a standout résumé and gain experience in a highly competitive global job market. Participants receive mentorship, professional development tools, and access to local networking and cultural events. Join our 15,000+ alumni network and gain international work experience that elevates your career while living and working in one of the world’s most exciting cities.

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Adelante Abroad

8

1

Psychology Internship in Madrid, Spain

Intern with a prestigious, well-known Spanish psychologist and his team in Madrid. Observe patients in sessions with doctors, and learn about introductory diagnostic consultations, diagnostic tests, treatments, and therapies. This is a fantastic opportunity for psychology students, recent graduates, or anyone with a psychology background looking to gain experience in another country. Applicants for this program must have high-intermediate Spanish. Madrid is Spain's capital and the most Spanish of Spain's cities. Experience Spanish life by living in the center of this lively and vibrant city. Adelante internships in Madrid enable you to live among local Spanish people while gaining real international work experience and improving your Spanish daily. Internship placements are tailored individually based on a combination of your requirements, your experience, qualifications in your chosen sector, and your Spanish skills. Participation in this program will drastically upgrade your resume and provide the opportunity to become fluent in Spanish.

See All 5 Programs

Asia Internship Program

9.58

119

Internship in Thailand - Asia Internship Program

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Asia and a hotspot for university students to pursue an internship. It has emerged as an attractive destination for international business due to its geographical location and unique lifestyle. Alumni of AIP have enjoyed exploring the mountains in Chiang Mai, the stunning Phi Phi Islands, and the bustling streets of Bangkok. Through AIP’s award-winning international internship program, you are guaranteed to receive a customized placement based on your career goals and aspirations. Interning abroad in Thailand exposes you to international work environments while developing your professional network of business contacts and relationships. Being partnered with an extensive amount of companies including multinational corporations, rapidly growing startups, and charitable NGOs, there is a wide range of placement opportunities available. Regardless of which industry you are interested in pursuing, our experienced placement team is ensured to accommodate your needs. Apply today and take advantage of this incredible internship opportunity in Thailand!

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Intern Abroad HQ

9.21

72

Intern Abroad HQ - Affordable Internships From Just 2 weeks!

Are you a student or young professional looking to enhance your career prospects through international work experience and hands-on learning? At Intern Abroad HQ, we help students and young professionals turn career aspirations into reality. We organize affordable internships in 20 destinations across 24 career fields that are tailored to meet each individual’s academic, professional, or personal requirements. With over 200 internship programs across Europe, Asia, Africa, Central America and South America to choose from, and options to intern from 2 weeks to 6 months either full-time or part-time, in-country or virtually, we facilitate career-enhancing experiences that work for you, not just the host organization. Intern Abroad HQ is proudly brought to you by the team behind International Volunteer HQ. We have collectively supported over 120,000 program participants since 2007 and are the only B Corp certified provider in our field.

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Roots Interns

8.68

22

Award-Winning Grassroots Internship Programs

At Roots, we believe valuable learning and making an impact can go hand-in-hand. That's why we offer academic internships with grassroots organizations around the world. As an intern, you'll have a unique work experience that will inspire you, enhance your career, and allow you to gain insight into grassroots development work. At the same time, you'll contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Join an internship that truly matters for you and the world! The focus areas of our internships are wide-ranging: from female empowerment and early childhood development to wildlife conservation and food security. No matter your degree or career focus, we'll be able to find you an internship that matches your interests and requirements. Our internships are based across Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Asia with year-round remote, in-person, and hybrid placements. What we'll offer you: - Careful matchmaking - Assistance with traveling (visas, flights, accommodation, etc.) - Supervision during your placement - Regular check-ins and troubleshooting - Career-driven opportunity Get in touch for a free internship consultation!

See All 9 Programs

Beyond Academy

9.3

67

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in Japan 2025
Tokyo Internships with Beyond Academy

Beyond Academy is GoAbroad’s Top-Rated Intern Abroad Program. Our Tokyo Internship Program holds a 9.25/10 rating from 60+ verified student reviews. We combine tailored internships, deep cultural immersion, and a supportive community to help you thrive in Japan — and we’re backed by 500+ verified five-star reviews from alumni worldwide.” Step inside Japan’s unique culture with an internship in Tokyo, where leading tech and ancient traditions meet. Tokyo offers an inspiring location for those looking to experience living and working in Japan. Home to over 50 Fortune Global 500 companies, a dizzying range of businesses thrives in the city. We’ll carefully design your Tokyo Internship Program so it has the perfect ingredients for your career success. From selecting the ideal role within our extensive network of partner firms to workshops and one-to-one coaching, we equip you with the skills and insights needed to excel in your internship and beyond. Our Tokyo internship spans 18 industries, offering start dates every month and durations ranging from 1 to 6 months. Want to stroll through cherry blossoms on your way to work? Hike the magnificent Mount Fuji during the weekend?

See All 14 Programs

Institute for Global Studies

9.33

3

At-Risk Youth Mentor (Education/Social Services) Internships

Institute for Global Studies interns have assisted with after-school reading programs, accompanied children on field trips, and presented their own ideas on how to best help with any challenges. At-risk youth mentors also gain an intimate perspective into the local culture. IGS has offered the following placements in the past: - Assisting children orphaned by the HIV epidemic in Thailand - Literacy project in a marginalized mountain community in Costa Rica - Prevention of gang violence in Hawaii - Fight against child trafficking in France Childhood is a critical stage; it is when values and personalities are formed. Unfortunately, many children do not have access to an environment that fosters proper growth. Domestic violence, low income, peer pressure, and many other factors can impede overall well-being and self-confidence. Some kids endure abuse and suffer secondary psychological effects, including aggressive behavior and depression. Providing at-risk youth with stable homes, after-school programs, and workforce initiatives helps them grow into productive adults.

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Connect-123 Internship Programs

9.74

101

Global Internship & Volunteer Programs with Connect-123!

Looking for an international internship that will set you apart—and give you the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in your career? Connect-123 designs fully customized programs that match your background and goals, offering hands-on experience in some of the world’s most exciting cities: Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Cape Town, Dublin, and Sydney. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or experienced professional, our programs span dozens of fields including business, finance, medicine, public health, journalism, marketing, human rights, law, sustainability, education, and more. You’ll gain meaningful, career-related experience while also exploring life in a new culture. We take care of the details so you can focus on making the most of your time abroad. From the moment you apply, our team helps guide you through the process, secure your placement, and prepare you for your new adventure. With flexible start dates and customizable program lengths, your life-changing internship begins on your schedule.

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AIFS Abroad

9.55

20

AIFS Abroad Internships in Paris, France

An internship in Paris through AIFS Abroad gives you the chance to immerse yourself in Parisian culture. The capital of France is full of fantastic opportunities to help you launch your dream career. It is home to thousands of international businesses and organizations. Thus, some of our most popular placement fields, including business and of course fashion, can be found in the City of Lights. If accepted into our program, we guarantee you an internship in your approved career field. Through our award-winning career coaching, we learn about you, your background, and your future career goals to find the perfect tailored placement for you. Also included are a centrally located homestay in Paris, 24/7 staff, and various social events for you and your fellow interns. Interning in Paris will teach you more about yourself and about the world than you ever thought possible. With AIFS Abroad, you will have an unforgettable and life-changing experience in Paris.

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.8

40

Top Social Work Volunteer Opportunities & Internships Abroad

GoEco offers a wide variety of social work volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide. These programs provide support to children and adults in need, especially those facing one or more layers of disadvantage in society. Our programs aim to support these children and adults, as well as the local communities overall. A few examples of our social work programs include our Girl Empowerment in Cape Town, South Africa, our Community Aid in Rajasthan program in India and our Social Work Internships program in San Jose, Costa Rica. We also offer programs that help those with special needs, in both Israel and Chile. No matter which program you choose, your social work will make a difference both to these individuals and in these communities.

CIEE College Study Abroad

8.94

17

CIEE Summer + Semester Internships Programs

CIEE offers the most extensive network of internship programs. Are you a U.S. college student looking to study and intern abroad? We have full-time and part-time placements across 40+ locations worldwide and in diverse fields, from AI and engineering to public policy and business administration. Find the right fit for you! Live, learn, and work abroad on an internship program with CIEE! CIEE Summer Internships CIEE Summer Global Internships are 6-credit, 8-week programs with full-time working hours (approximately 30 hours weekly) and a seminar. CIEE Summer Intern and Study Abroad are 6 to 7-credit, 6-week programs with a part-time internship (approximately 20 hours weekly), a seminar, and a 3-credit academic course. CIEE Semester Internships CIEE Semester Global Internships are 9 to 13-credit, 12-week programs that feature a full-time internship (approximately 30 hours weekly), a seminar, and an optional 3 to 4-credit academic course online. CIEE Semester Intern and Study Abroad Programs are 12 to 14-credit, 12-week programs that feature a part-time internship​ (approximately 20 hours weekly), a seminar, and two academic courses.

International Medical Aid (IMA)

10

10

IMA Cross-Cultural Care Mental Health Internships Abroad

International Medical Aid (IMA) pioneers impactful mental health internships worldwide for undergraduates, graduates, and licensed mental health professionals. Through these programs, developed at Johns Hopkins University, participants provide vital mental health services in underserved regions of East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Focused on bridging the gap in mental health access, IMA's internships confront cultural stigmas and enhance community well-being through comprehensive public health initiatives and education. This hands-on experience not only furthers interns' practical skills but also integrates them into meaningful projects that combat the root causes of mental illness. IMA's dedication to ethical, sustainable solutions and its substantial investment in local communities set these internships apart, ensuring a safe, enriching experience backed by 24/7 support. Participants emerge from the program with enhanced clinical acumen, a deeper understanding of global mental health issues, and a fortified application for graduate schools, enriched by unique cultural immersions and professional mentorship.

JENZA

9.6

5

Internship in the UK with JENZA

Looking to get ahead over the summer, need academic credit as part of your degree, or just graduated and wondering what’s next? Turn your academic achievements into professional work experience with a 1-12 month internship in the UK. What is Intern UK? A cultural, creative, and corporate superpower—a UK internship can add serious gravitas to your CV. Attracting talent from across the globe in every sector, from technology to the arts, you’ll learn from leaders in your field, build your professional network, and get that all-important reference to help launch your career in one of the most diverse and dynamic places in the world. How it works: BUNAC, our sibling company in the UK, is one of the largest A-rated sponsors for the UK Government’s Temporary Work GAE visa. Together, we provide the sponsorship, visa support, and placement vetting to intern in the UK for 1-12 months, with step-by-step guidance and access to employer directories on our Intern Hub to help find your placement. Who can go? We can sponsor most nationalities (except UK + Irish citizens). You must be 18+ and either a full-time degree-level student or have graduated within 24 months of starting your internship.

Go Abroad China Ltd.

9.7

149

Top Rated Program Intern Abroad in China 2025
Paid Internships in Fortune 500 Companies in China

Go Abroad China’s Paid Internship Program connects international students, graduates, and young professionals with guaranteed placements in Fortune 500 companies, multinational corporations, and innovative startups across China. Since 2003, we’ve placed over 4,000 participants from 50+ countries into 2,000+ paid internships spanning 20+ industries—including business, finance, engineering, IT, marketing, law, hospitality, and more. Designed for ambitious and motivated individuals aged 18+, our year-round programs offer real-world, cross-cultural experience in booming cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. No Mandarin skills required—many placements are in English-speaking environments. All-inclusive packages from $1,980 cover accommodation, visa support, Mandarin classes, orientation, business/cultural activities, 24/7 local assistance, and a risk-free refund policy. With 90% of interns securing jobs within 3 months and 20% receiving full-time offers, this is your gateway to a global career. We understand that every intern's needs and budget are unique, which is why we offer fully customizable package options, and we will tailor a program specifically for you.

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Internship in Japan

9.44

39

Internship Program in Japan by SEKAIA

Internship in Japan by SEKAIA Inc. (formerly ICC Consultants Inc.) Internship in Japan by SEKAIA is Japan’s leading internship program, connecting global talent with professional opportunities across the country. Based in the heart of Tokyo since 1988, we offer one of the largest networks of exciting placements for students and young professionals. Guided by our vision to “Explore the World,” the program goes beyond work experience—you’ll discover Japan’s culture, business, and people while growing as a global professional. From Finance to Fashion, Robotics to Journalism, Game Design to Event Management, and IT to Trade—we have opportunities to match your goals. No Japanese language skills? No problem. The world is open to you with SEKAIA. Our multinational team supports you every step of the way, offering 24-hour assistance, insurance, and personalized services to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience. Start your journey today—send us a message and take the first step toward your future in Japan!

Linguistic Horizons

9.64

28

Internship in the Sacred Valley, Peru

Intern abroad with Linguistic Horizons in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Peru! We are located at the foot of the Andes mountains between Cusco and Machu Picchu! This program is ideal for those who want to go off the beaten path to have a truly immersive experience. You'll improve your Spanish, experience local life, and learn about the Peruvian and Andean cultures. You will intern with a local Peruvian company or organization. This internship program allows you to gain valuable experience in your field of study. We arrange customized voluntary internship placements for each candidate. You can stay for as little as 2 weeks or up to 6 months. Visit our website for more details!

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El Terreno

9.33

3

Gender Equality & Reproductive Health Internship in Ecuador

Dive into a hands-on, personalized internship focusing on gender equality, especially in education and sexual health, within low-income Indigenous communities. THE CHALLENGE In nearby rural communities, teenage pregnancy is around 26%, and women face economic, social, and educational barriers. This stems from a prevalent machista culture and a lack of education and resources that enable women to make empowered choices. THE SOLUTION Gender roles can play a valid family function, but everyone should have a voice and equal opportunities, especially in education, work, and reproductive health. As an intern, you’ll help identify key problems and co-create sustainable solutions with community members, schools, and other stakeholders. OUR METHODOLOGY Our internships use Design Thinking to co-create solutions with local stakeholders. You will learn to observe, ideate, and prototype in real contexts, building skills while supporting sustainable change. During weekends—or before and after your stay—you will also have the chance to explore Ecuador’s incredible diversity, from the Amazon rainforest to the Galápagos Islands.

Mente Argentina

9.92

39

International Internship Programs by Mente Argentina

Mente Argentina's international internship program in Buenos Aires bridges the gap between those who want an extraordinary internship experience and the companies and organizations in the city that need talented, diverse individuals to work on short and long-term projects. Mente Argentina cooperates with a multitude of enterprises, state, non-government, and international organizations. Interns will get deep insights into the culture of Argentina while gaining solid experience in the working area they choose. In most placements, interns will work with Spanish-speaking people, further enriching their knowledge of Spanish. Mente Argentina specializes in facilitating career-related and professional internships in Buenos Aires in fields such as business consulting, advertising, design, healthcare, communications, human rights, medicine, education, finance and accounting, and journalism.

Spirit Cultural Exchange

10

1

J-1 Visa Sponsorship in USA for International Interns

Are you looking for a J-1 Visa Sponsor to assist you with sponsoring your internship or professional training in the USA? With over 18 years as a J-1 Visa Program Sponsor, Spirit Cultural Exchange is an organization you can count on to support you every step of the way. Spirit is currently accepting applications from international candidates who have already identified their US-based internship and are in need of a J-1 Visa Sponsorship. Spirit sponsors Internship programs in a variety of fields, including: - Hospitality and Tourism - Management, Business, Commerce, and Finance - Information Media and Communications - The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics, and Industrial Occupations - Arts and Culture - Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counselling, and Social Services - Public Administration and Law Contact Spirit today to learn more about how to apply!

A Guide to Counseling Internships Abroad

Prepare for an Internship

Understand the benefits

Counseling internships abroad offer some amazing perks that go beyond what you’d get from a typical internship. Here’s what you can look forward to:

  • Put your learning into action. There’s no better way to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom than by actually working in the field—especially when you get to do it in a new country.
  • Get more adaptable. Working abroad helps you quickly adapt to new cultures and situations, making you more flexible and resourceful.
  • Pick up a new language. To connect better with the people you’re counseling, picking up at least the basics of their language is a great help. That’s why you’ll come home with a new language skill in your toolkit.

Things to know

Before you head off for your counseling internship abroad, consider these additional factors:

  • Language skills - Having some knowledge of the local language can greatly enhance your experience during a counseling internship abroad, even if fluency isn’t required. Many programs offer support to help interns grasp essential language skills, making it easier to connect with clients and colleagues on a deeper level.
  • Legal and ethical standards - Understanding and adhering to the local legal and ethical standards for counseling is essential to ensure a smooth experience. Research these regulations and confirm that your internship program aligns with them, as different countries have unique requirements and professional expectations.

Financial planning - Plan your budget carefully by researching the cost of living in your chosen destination. To ease financial pressures, explore scholarships and funding options through GoAbroad’s scholarships and deals application, which can provide significant support for your internship journey.

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular destinations for counseling internships abroad include the UK, Australia, Canada, and Spain, where mental health services are well-developed. Countries like Thailand and South Africa also offer unique opportunities focusing on community-based counseling. Choosing a location depends on language proficiency, cultural interest, and specific counseling specialties.

Mental health counseling internships provide hands-on experience working with individuals facing emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. Interns may assist licensed counselors, conduct assessments, facilitate group therapy, or engage in outreach programs. These internships help develop clinical skills, cultural competency, and an understanding of diverse mental health approaches.

Most counseling internships require enrollment in a psychology, counseling, or social work program. Some may ask for prior coursework in mental health or counseling techniques. Strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and confidentiality awareness are essential. In certain cases, fluency in the local language or previous volunteer experience in mental health settings may be beneficial.

Paid counseling internships abroad exist but are less common than unpaid ones. Some opportunities offer stipends, housing, or living allowances, particularly in research-based or government-funded programs. In regions where mental health services are in high demand, organizations may provide compensation to attract qualified interns. Scholarships and grants can also help cover expenses.

Finding counseling internships abroad involves researching international organizations, university exchange programs, and mental health NGOs. Checking directly with hospitals, clinics, and community centers can uncover hidden opportunities. Networking with professionals, attending global psychology conferences, and exploring platforms like GoAbroad can also help identify relevant placements.

Latest Program Reviews

Wonderful experience

December 18, 2025by: Bilkis Ahmed - United KingdomProgram: Tokyo Internships with Beyond Academy
10

I worked as a graphic design intern, for two months. Really enjoyed my time, the Tokyo coordinators really supported me and made me feel welcomed. My internship company were wonderful and I got to work on designing some characters for them. Would definitely recommend doing an internship with beyond academy.

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