Social Work or Occupational/Physical Therapy Internship in Bahrain

Imagine yourself living and working in the Middle East, immersed in 5,000 years of Arab history combined with a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Explore your role in a global story alongside other Jesus followers, seeking to display God’s love in every profession and place.
 

OM and InterVarsity are partnering to make global, professional internships available in dynamic city hubs for summer 2026. All students are welcome and will experience the values and support of both OM and InterVarsity in their internship cohort and throughout their journey.

The Social Work and Therapy Intern will work join a clinic focused on helping both children and adults with special needs.  Some mornings will focus on Early childhood development, sensory play, inclusive education, and behavioral therapy with kids, and some evenings will focus on working with adults with special needs.  Responsibilities can be adjusted to the intern’s vocation, emphasizing more therapy or social work skills depending on the candidate’s training. Bahrain is known as the “Pearl of the Gulf,” an island destination in the Middle East that mixes traditional and modern--and where few people understand the love of Jesus.

Areas of Study that are ideal for this internship:

• Education, Early Childhood Development
• Special Education
• Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, or Physiotherapy
• Psychology, Social Work, or Community Development

 
Responsibilities may include: 

• Support children with learning, observing and recording developmental progress
• Help plan sessions and prepare therapy materials
• Maintain a nurturing environment that follows safeguarding protocols
• Assist with evening programs for adults that focuses on Life skills, social engagement, and inclusion through 1:1 or group activities (like art, music,  sports, games, outings)
• Offer companionship and social support/ we perform home visits occasionally 
• For more Therapy focus (Interns will initially observe then practice under supervision), assist clients with stretches, muscle relaxation, help prepare materials and other activities, and learn and apply basic communication tools (e.g., PECS).

Qualifications and skills: 

• Follower of Jesus, passionate about making a positive impact in the world, motivated to build relationships with people of other cultures.
• Compassionate, patient, and respectful toward people with disabilities
• Good communication skills (English required; Arabic helpful but not essential)
• Willingness to learn about inclusive education and disability awareness
• Team player and dependable attitude VERY FLEXIBLE 
• Culturally sensitive, especially in moderate dress code. 
• Experience working or volunteering with children or individuals with disabilities is a plus
• First Aid or CPR certification a plus
   

Highlights shared by former interns:

• Work on projects that matter and grow your professional skills in a global context
• Gain confidence through mentorship and collaboration with experienced professionals
• Build deep friendships and share life through meals, Bible studies, and team adventures
• Immerse yourself in local culture and explore new places across the region
• Make a real Kingdom impact alongside others passionate about faith and calling

Why consider this internship?

• An international internship combines the benefits of a traditional internship (skill and resume improvement, employment connections) with the benefits of study abroad (cultural immersion)—and doing it through OM and InterVarsity means you will also experience the benefits of mission-driven discipleship connected to global Christian community.
• Our interns on average rate their work experience as a 9/10 in terms of doing meaningful work, receiving specific encouragement, and being prepared in their work. OM was chosen as a Handshake Early Talent Award recipient because of our mission-driven approach to internships and our high level of manager investment and care.
• 2 out of 3 of our interns say they would consider working for their host team, organization, or business in the future—and 2 out of 3 of our managers say they would hire their intern for a similar job.
• To learn more, check out our intern stories, FAQs, and testimonials on our internship website and Handshake employer profile.

Additional information:

• All interns must be in full agreement OM USA’s Statement of Faith.
• Internships begin in mid-May and go through July, and program includes an orientation and debriefing with your internship cohort and OM and InterVarsity staff.
• This is an unpaid internship (like the vast majority of international internships, especially with nonprofits and small businesses). Travel, program, and living costs must be covered by the intern, either personally or through fundraising, financial aid, or scholarships you find. We work hard to keep these costs to a minimum so that these internships are accessible to everyone, and you may fundraise to cover most of those costs. If you are invited into the cohort, you will need to provide a deposit (applied toward your total costs) to secure your spot.
• Internship credit could be available upon the approval of your university/college administration. May qualify for other degree or course requirements, such as practicum or observation hours; check with your advisor.
• Application deadline is February 20, 2026, but cohort may fill sooner.