Volunteer Mental Health Placement in Sri Lanka

Jennifer Barone Start Date: Jan 15, 2018 - End Date: Sep 1, 2018
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
  • Sri Lanka

My Travel Story

by: Jennifer Barone Start Date: Jan 15, 2018 - End Date: Sep 1, 2018
  • Cultural Exchange
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
Going to Sri Lanka and participating in the volunteer mental health placement program can impact my education and career development immensely. Recently graduated with a bachelor's in psychology, this opportunity would give me my first hands-on experience in the mental health sector, specifically counseling and psychotherapy experience, while immersing myself in another culture. I'd be able to work with mental health professionals and attend various psychology-focused workshops which is an opportunity that isn't as easy to come by here in the United States, especially with only a bachelor's degree. Working on 8 different projects during the 4 weeks will challenge me and finally give me the chance to put my knowledge into use and action in a place where mental health is very stigmatized and resources are scarce. Working as an Activity Support Worker in psychiatric units, with children with special needs, and in mental health care homes I'll be able to combine my two favorite things that I am passionate about; travel and psychology. Being able to have this experience to provide much needed stimulation and human contact to improve wellbeing and increase self-esteem for others while living with a host family, learning their culture as well, would be life-changing and a privilege.
I came across this opportunity one day as an advertisement on Facebook, not thinking that after doing a lot of research and having a phone interview, that I'd only a few weeks later put my placement deposit down. My trip will be 4 weeks long and begins September 17th but my application fees are due in July so any help is much appreciated!! Thank you:)
  • Sri Lanka

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