My Internship in Malta – A Personal Insight

After studying abroad for one semester during my bachelor’s degree, I knew I wanted to take another step towards broadening my international perspective – this time through practical work experience. When I came across Willingness in Malta during my search for an internship, I was drawn to its multidisciplinary team and its diverse range of mental health services.

The chance to explore different areas – including clinical work, education, outreach, and research – was exactly what I was looking for. That’s how my internship in Malta began.

Why I Chose an Internship in Malta

As a master’s student in clinical psychology, I have a strong interest in understanding mental health from a holistic perspective. Willingness aligns perfectly with that approach, combining psychological, medical, educational, and social perspectives under one roof.

Looking back, I can confidently say that my internship in Malta gave me valuable insight into the daily operations of a multidisciplinary mental health clinic. It was challenging, enriching, and contributed greatly to my personal and professional development.

Building Communication Skills Through Writing

Part of my internship took place at the clinic itself, where I was responsible for administrative tasks and writing blog articles on mental health topics.

I enjoyed this creative side of the internship. It allowed me to research subjects I’m passionate about, reflect on mental health trends, and translate complex information into clear, engaging content. This not only improved my professional writing skills but also taught me how to make research accessible to a wider audience.

Taking Mental Health Support to Festivals

One of the most memorable aspects of my internship in Malta was working at music festivals. Our team provided low-threshold mental health support for festival-goers. Wearing bright orange shirts, we made ourselves visible and approachable, creating safe spaces for conversations about emotional well-being.

This was a very different setting from traditional therapy rooms. It showed me how mental health outreach can be integrated into everyday life, making support more accessible and breaking down barriers.

Camp Willingness – Learning to Work with Children

During the final month, I joined Camp Willingness, a summer programme for children, including those with special needs. Initially, I felt uncertain about working with children as it was new to me, but the experience was incredibly rewarding.

I developed skills in leading activities, responding to emotional needs, and building trust with the children. This part of my internship pushed me to adapt quickly, be patient, and grow more confident in my abilities.

Reflections on My Internship in Malta

My internship in Malta was truly diverse – a mix of clinical work, outreach, and personal challenges that made me reflect on my future career as a psychologist. I gained insight into the operations of a multidisciplinary clinic, worked with people from all walks of life, and stepped out of my comfort zone.

Living in Malta also added another layer to the experience. Meeting people from around the world and adapting to a new environment reminded me of the importance of open-mindedness, flexibility, and lifelong learning.

Thank you, Willingness, for making my internship in Malta a life-changing experience.