OT InternshipS

"Working at OTTP with all of
the transdisciplinarity professionals and wide variety of cliental has broadened my viewpoint and
consolidated my therapeutic approach with heavy emphasis on a mental health lens, therapeutic use of self,
advocacy, and an unconditional positive regard mindset." - Isabelle Pisano, Former OTTP Intern

Occupational Therapy Internship at OTTP-NorCal

Our premier internship program offers comprehensive training for occupational therapy and social work students interested in community based mental health for youth. We are grateful for the opportunity to provide clinical supervision for talented, motivated students who have a passionate interest in serving this population.


OTTP-NorCal Staffing for OT Interns

OTTP-NorCal has a qualified staff of occupational therapists, marriage and family therapists, social workers, nurse practitioner, occupational therapy and social work interns, accounting staff, and office support staff. 


OT Interns

We welcome interns from numerous universities, including Dominican University, Samuel Merritt College, San Jose State University, University of Southern California, Loma Linda University, Texas Women’s University, Tufts University, Florida International University, New York University, and many more. 

Expectations for OT Interns

Since this is a specialized setting, there are certain personal characteristics that seem to be required in order to enable an intern to really enjoy their experience. Therefore, please read through this list carefully.  If you feel that the following characteristics are indicative of you, this setting may be a great fit.  If not, you may want to consider a more structured or traditional psychosocial setting.  Self directed/independent learner  |  Flexible, adaptable, and creative  |  Good time management and the ability to multi-task  |  Assertive and energetic  |  Positive attitude and patience  |  Team player and good communication skills  |  Professionalism  |  
Excellent documentation skills

Assignments throughout this affiliation may consist of the following:
  • Treatment plan development (life skills, crafts, communication skills, social skills, and pre-vocational skills training)
  • Individual and group intervention for children, youth, and young adults
  • Documentation including OT evaluations, individual progress notes, weekly progress notes, documentation to probation officers, teachers, counselors, etc.
  • Case management duties
  • Attending on and off-site meetings, including IEP meetings, community-based agency meetings, and agency meetings
  • Obtaining additional resources in the San Francisco community for OTTP youth
  • Other responsibilities as designated

OTTP-NorCal Level II OT Internship Coordination Process and Deadlines

OTTP-NorCal accepts Occupational Therpy Level 2 Interns throughout the year under supervision of licensed an registered Occupational Therapists. Please see below for more information on the application process. Please contact the OTTP Intern Coordinator Team at fieldwork@ottp-sf.org with any additional questions.

Application Steps:

1. The school provides the potential interns with the application materials and requests that they email both their current educational resume and PDF application to OTTP at
fieldwork@ottp-sf.org.
Application Windows:
  • August 1st - October 1st for Spring semester placements
  • December 1st - February 1st for Summer and Fall semester placements
Typical Semester Breakdown:
  • Spring - approximately January through March
  • Summer - approximatly June through August
  • Fall - approximately September through November
2. OTTP Intern Coordinators will schedule a brief interview via zoom that will be recorded with the students consent. Interviews will be sent to OTTP Occupational Therapy Clinicians for review. Students will hear back via email within approximately 1 month from the deadline of submission.

3. OTTP Intern Coordinators will confirm start and end dates with the selected interns school's Fieldwork Coordinators.

Application Information for OT Intern Applicants:
  • We welcome students of all backgrounds and identities who are passionte about community-based mental health to apply for an internship. In a commitment to upholding our values and fostering a diverse environment, OTTP-NorCal encourages all qualified students, including students of color and those with bilingual capacity, to apply. We are dedicated to equal opportunity employment and strive to create an inclusive environment that represents our client population.  
  • Based on available funds, OTTP-NorCal may offer interns a stipend at the end of successful completion of their internship.  
  • OTTP-NorCal is a community-based setting. Interns often work at multiple sites throughout the day and should be prepared to travel throughout San Francisco (and/or Oakland) on a daily basis. Mileage is reimbursed.

Still Interested? If so, wonderful!
Speak to your fieldwork coordinator & we hope to meet you soon! We are committed to an ongoing focus on diversity, inclusion, and equity in our hiring practices, policies, and clinical interventions.