Undergraduate Internship Program

Elite Sports Physical Therapy is proud to be a learning facility with a work culture promoting active learning, professional growth, passion and clinical excellence. The mission of our mentorship is to inspire and educate the next generation of future health care providers and provide a great foundation to a career in rehabilitative medicine.

As an ESPT intern, professional development and growth is a high priority with many additional learning experiences to enhance clinical and professional experience. We provide excellent resources, promote active learning, and provide hands-on experiences. Additionally, our interns are taught the art of providing excellent customer service and creating interpersonal relationships with patients in order to boost patient connection and satisfaction.

Interns also have the opportunity to engage with Doctorate level Physical Therapy Students who are completing their intermediate and terminal clinical internships at ESPT. We regularly hosts DPT students throughout the year from schools such as Samuel Merritt, UCSF, UOP, Chapman, Fresno State, and St. Augustine. ESPT also has contracts with University of Southern California, Columbia University, Duke University, University of Washington, Emory University, and Baylor University.

Volunteer/Intern Role Description

Position Title: Physical Therapy Volunteer/Undergraduate Intern
Supervisor: Dr. Kimberly Huey, PT, DPT, OCS; Licensed Physical Therapist License #42306
Status: Unpaid, Temporary

Position Summary

The Physical Therapy Volunteer/Intern provides non-clinical support in an outpatient orthopedic setting under the direct supervision of licensed physical therapists. This role is strictly observational and administrative, offering exposure to physical therapy practices while ensuring compliance with California state laws and HIPAA regulations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Allowed Activities (Non-Clinical & Supportive)

1. Observation & Learning:
  - Shadow licensed physical therapists during patient evaluations and treatments.
  - Learn about treatment techniques, exercise progressions, and rehabilitation strategies.
  - Participate in clinical activity labs performed with other student interns.
2. Administrative & Clerical Assistance:
  - Greet patients at the lobby and guide patient to their treatment table
  - Assist with sending appointment text reminders and emailing appointment summaries.
  - Assist with delivery of paperwork between front and back office
  - Check out patients at the end of their session
  - Follow HIPAA guidelines when handling confidential patient information.
3. Clinic Maintenance & Preparation:
  - Clean and prepare treatment areas between patient sessions.
  - Restock clinical supplies (therabands, electrodes, towels, etc.).
  - Assist with equipment setup before use and managing equipment after use (e.g., adjusting tables, placing equipment in position).

Prohibited Activities (Patient Care & Clinical Tasks)

As per California’s Physical Therapy Practice Act, volunteers/interns may NOT:
- Provide hands-on care, including stretching, manual therapy, or modalities (ultrasound, e-stim, heat/ice).
- Instruct or guide patients through exercises, balance drills, or gait training.
- Document in the patient’s official medical record (e.g., WebPT, EMR systems).
- Provide clinical advice, interpret evaluations, or modify patient treatment plans.
- Transport, lift, or physically assist patients in any way.

Qualifications:

Currently enrolled in or a graduate of an undergraduate program related to Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Pre-Physical Therapy, or a related field.
Strong interest in physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations.
Willingness to follow clinic policies and procedures.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to assist with light cleaning and equipment organization.
No direct lifting of patients or heavy objects.

Commitment & Schedule:

Fall Schedule
- Minimum 6 hours per week, for a duration of September to Mid/Late December.
Spring Schedule
- Minimum 6 hours per week, for a duration Early February to Early June
Summer Schedule
- Minimum 6 hours per week, for a duration Early June to Late August
Scheduling based on clinic needs and volunteer availability.

Supervision & Compliance:

Volunteers/interns must always be supervised by a licensed PT.
All tasks must comply with California’s Physical Therapy Practice Act and HIPAA regulations.
A signed confidentiality agreement is required before beginning.