Recreation Therapy Intern

Position: Spring 2027 Recreation Therapy Intern
For over 35 years, Youth Villages has transformed the lives of children and families nationwide through innovative, research-based programs focused on preserving and restoring families.

As a national leader in children’s mental and behavioral health, we serve more than 47,000 youth, young people, and their families annually across 29 states and Washington, D.C. Our proven treatment models drive long-term success in child welfare, juvenile justice, and mental health systems. At Youth Villages, we do what works — partnering with others to expand our impact and advocate for meaningful, lasting change.

We're seeking purpose-driven individuals who are passionate about making a difference. With a dedicated team of more than 5,000 staff, Youth Villages is committed to investing in and supporting our employees by offering opportunities to build a fulfilling career through professional growth, personal development, and a mission that matters— helping children and families live successfully.

For more information, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Program Overview:

Youth Villages offers paid internship opportunities for bachelor’s and master’s students across select residential and community-based programs. Placements are determined during the interview process based on availability, academic requirements, and your individual experience.

We collaborate with you and your academic program to design an internship that fits your practicum needs and class schedule to ensure you can obtain course credit. Additionally, internships can serve as a valuable opportunity to gain professional experience beyond an academic requirement. Internships are offered nationwide during the fall and spring semesters, with select locations in Tennessee over the summer semester.

Spots are limited and offers are extended on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged. If you're seeking meaningful hands-on experience with a leading mental health agency, Youth Villages may be the right fit for you!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Recreation Therapy Intern:

Works under the supervision of a NCTRC certified staff member

Shadows one or more recreation therapists while interacting with youth from multiple programs

Facilitates group sessions typically held 3 times per week lasting, 1 to 2.5 hours long Participates in treatment planning (including but not limited to evaluating, setting, and implementing recreational goals for each youth)
Completes accurate and timely documentation in an electronic medical record system (EMR)
Performs other duties as assigned

Additional Information:

Schedule is flexible and non-traditional as it is based around the availability of youth and families served.

Qualifications:

Please refer to the requirements below to ensure that your education and experience meet the qualifications. Bachelor’s Degree Applicants Must Be:

Actively pursuing a degree in Therapeutic Recreation (required)
Entering junior year of undergraduate program at minimum (required)
Master’s Degree Applicants Must Be:

Actively pursuing a degree in Therapeutic Recreation (required) All Applicants Must:

Have experience with children or adolescents (required)
Youth Villages Benefits Medical, Dental, Prescription Drug Coverage and Vision
401(k)
Time off:2 week paid vacation (full-time) / 1 week paid vacation (part-time)12 paid sick days per year
11 paid holidays

Paid Parental Leave Mileage & Cell Phone Reimbursement (when applicable)
Tuition reimbursement and licensure supervision

Growth & development through continuous training

Clinical and administrative advancement opportunities
* Benefits are excluded for variable status employees.

Youth Villages is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees…