Vanesa was a Recreational Therapy Intern for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.

To learn more about her experience and interning with the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, read Vanesa’s story below.

 

About Vanesa

Major: Recreational Therapy
Academic Year: Senior

Tell us a bit about the company you interned for:

The Indianapolis VA Domiciliary is one of the facilities under the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Our domiciliary provides state-of-the-art residential care to Veterans who need rehabilitative services and treatment for recovery, health maintenance, improved quality of life, and a smooth transition back into their communities.

Tell us about your position during your internship:

I work as a recreational therapist intern providing services at residential treatment program for homeless veterans. I have been learning about homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse. I gaining clinical experience on how to complete assessments, lead therapy groups, coordinate community integration outings, complete clinical documentation, and participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings.

Tell us about what you’ve most enjoyed about your internship experience:

I have fully transitioned to lead our “RECovery Skills” Group Therapy sessions independently. I utilize leisure education in group therapy to address leisure awareness, promote socialization, and provide community resources to Veterans who attend sessions.

What has surprised you most about being an intern?

What surprised me most as an intern is how confident I felt applying academic knowledge to my hands-on experience in providing therapeutic recreation services, even if I encountered a situation that required quick problem solving. I am grateful for the wonderful professors in my SPH academic program that prepared me for my internship clinical experience.

Work Experience
  • Recreational Therapy Intern
  • U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs
Communities
Career Planning, Environmental & Occupational Health, Healthcare & Wellness, Public Health, Community Health, Recreational Therapy