Program Reviews

It was an incredibly rewarding experience to learn about and engage with Belizean culture firsthand. I especially valued the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with children in the clinic, which was both meaningful and enriching. The supervising therapists were highly knowledgeable and provided insightful, constructive feedback that greatly enhanced my learning. I would definitely participate in this experience again and am very interested in continuing my involvement with the organization.

I had the most amazing experience with Therapy Volunteers International in Belize! The place we stayed was very comfortable and the food was phenomenal and authentic. I felt safe at all times and there were many resources to ask if I needed anything. It was amazing to be immersed in and exposed to the culture and learn more about the people and the area. The clinical experience was incredible and very beneficial for my learning. Bring lots of bug spray and sunscreen! Especially if you go on a snorkeling excursion! Made so many memories!

My experience with Therapy Volunteers in Belize was unforgettable and played a huge role in shaping my growth as a future occupational therapist. I felt welcomed, supported, and inspired by the incredible team and the meaningful work being done within the community.

One of the most impactful aspects of the program was the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world setting. Working directly with individuals in need of therapeutic services allowed me to deepen my understanding of occupational therapy beyond the classroom. I was able to observe and participate in a variety of interventions, adapt activities based on client needs, and develop a greater appreciation for culturally responsive care.

Amrita and Maya demonstrated passion, knowledge, and dedication throughout our time in Belize. They created a space where I felt comfortable asking questions, seeking guidance, and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Immersing myself in a new culture, connecting with the local community, and gaining a broader perspective on global healthcare were all invaluable parts of this journey.

Overall, my time with Therapy Volunteers in Belize exceeded my expectations in every way. It is truly an experience I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Therapy Volunteers is amazing! My time in Belize was nothing short of amazing. I am so beyond blessed to have completed my Level I Fieldwork there. Amrita and Maya are so supportive and encouraging! The environment was inclusive and supportive. The children were so loving and worked very hard in therapeutic settings. I am beyond thankful for this opportunity and for everyone who made it possible. Therapy Volunteers provided an experience that I will never forget, and I would highly recommend it to anyone considering a fieldwork or volunteer opportunity abroad. It is truly a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression.

My experience in Belize with Therapy Volunteers was truly unforgettable! As an occupational therapy student, I gained valuable, hands-on, and culturally rich clinical experiences working with the people and children in Belize. The time we spent at a local clinic and special education school getting to know the children and learning more about their disabilities and how occupational therapy services can support them was very beneficial to my future career. I left feeling inspired by the creativity, resilience, and adaptability of the therapists who all demonstrated a deep level of respect and appreciation for the cultural differences.

In addition to gaining clinical hours, we went on a variety of excursions throughout the week including snorkeling, cave tubing, ziplining, and a visit to the Belize zoo. Snorkeling was the highlight, but all were unforgettable experiences! These excursions gave me an opportunity to explore and enjoy Belize, and definitely fulfilled my adventurous spirit. Therapy Volunteers ensures that your time in Belize is well spent, with the perfect balance of clinical opportunities and fun!

I loved my time in Belize. While it was a short week filled with clinic and school work, we were also able to see Belize through snorkeling and touring the Mayan ruins. The adventure days were so much fun, but I will forever remember all the kids from clinic and the school. The progress they made in such a short time was memorable. I would definitely recommend if you want a fun and new way to experience our profession of speech! Working at the school was such a neat experience because you were able to work with kids who were trying to work on different areas than most kids you see in the states also. It is also a great way to work on your personal quick thinking for sessions.

My experience in Belize with Therapy Volunteers as a Creighton OTD student was truly unforgettable. This trip was an incredible opportunity to learn what occupational therapy looks like in a different cultural and with limited resources in mixed settings, while also serving the local community. During the week, we spent time in a pediatric outpatient clinic and special education school where we were able to observe and facilitate therapy sessions, collaborate with teachers and caregivers, and build connections with the children we worked with. Level 1 OTD students typically do not get to run therapy sessions so this was an especially meaningful way to give back to a community in need of providers! It was inspiring to see how therapists creatively adapted activities and interventions with limited resources to help children participate in meaningful occupations.

Therapy Volunteers did a wonderful job organizing the excursion experiences and making sure everything ran smoothly. From transportation and meals to coordinating clinic days and cultural activities, the staff were supportive, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable about Belizean culture. There was even a cultural presentation that we attended to better understand the culture in Belize. In addition to the clinical learning opportunities, we also had the chance to explore the country through amazing excursions like cave tubing and ziplining through the jungle and spending a day at Caye Caulker snorkeling with SHARKS! These experiences allowed us to bond as a group while also gaining a deeper appreciation for the beauty and culture of Belize. Overall, this trip helped me get in touch with my passion for culture through occupational therapy practices and reminded me how meaningful it is to use our skills to support others across different communities.

When I was presented with the opportunity to provide occupational therapy services in another country, I immediately said yes! Therapy Volunteers provided a culturally-rich, holistic, and safe experience that was very beneficial to my learning and future career as an occupational therapist. We spent time at a local clinic and special education school to learn more about the needs of those with disabilities and how important our services are! Therapy Volunteers also provided two excursion days during our time in Belize - cave tubing/ziplining & an adventure to Caye Caulker! We were met with amazing and welcoming staff who allowed us to have an inside look on the culture of Belize.

With this experience, Therapy Volunteers International creates a structure to take you through so many pieces of an abroad learning trip. TVI coordinates cultural immersion experiences (like visits to the Belizean Zoo and going to local Belizean restaurants), touristy excursions that allow you to see the sights (cave tubing, ziplining, Caye days), and on-the-ground service-based experiences working in pediatric therapy settings. It's such a well-rounded experience, both from a travel perspective and from a student therapy fieldwork perspective. Highly rec as a level I FW experience!

My experience in Belize was truly incredible, and I am so thankful and grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. This trip was such a meaningful learning experience, and I feel truly blessed to have had the chance to learn from the people and children of Belize. Their kindness, joy, and resilience made such a lasting impact on me.

Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to observe and participate in therapy sessions, collaborate with teachers and caregivers, and see how occupational therapy can be provided in a different cultural and resource setting. It was inspiring to watch the therapists use creativity and adaptability to support each child. Even with limited materials, they found thoughtful ways to meet each child where they were and help them succeed.

What stood out to me most was the heart behind the work being done. The care and dedication shown to the children and families was so evident in every interaction. I learned so much not only about occupational therapy, but also about compassion, patience, and the importance of simply being present with the people in front of you.

I am incredibly grateful for this experience and for the opportunity to learn from such amazing clinicians, teachers, and families. This trip strengthened my passion for occupational therapy and reminded me how meaningful this profession truly is. I will carry what I learned in Belize with me for the rest of my career.