Get practical experience with Oregon VR
2025-26 Internship positions available!
We accept applications year-round for positions throughout the state.
For positions in the Portland Metro and Salem offices, we prioritize applications turned in by November 1. Later submissions will be considered if there are still openings.
All placements are in-person.
The details
- Work on site in one of 30 offices around the state.
- Work 20 hours or more per week.
- You'll be supported by an internship hosting team at your office.
- Placements are offered for the full 600-hour internship experience.
Why Oregon VR?
- Gain specialized knowledge in areas of interest. This could include mental health diagnoses, intellectual and developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, youth, the Deaf community and serving rural areas.
- Get access to jobs with VR. In the past five years, VR hired 75% of those who completed an internship with the program.
- Be a part of Oregon Department of Human Services, which is committed to building an antiracist and equitable agency, guided by the
Equity North Star.
- We welcome members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, people with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA2S+ community members, and others to apply.
To qualify, you must be
- Enrolled in an accredited college or university program and be in good standing.
- Seeking a degree that will assist you to be qualified to fill a VR counselor position.
To apply
To be considered for a practicum or internship placement, please submit the following to
vr.internship@odhs.oregon.gov:
- A cover letter describing your interest.
- A current resume (PDF format preferred).
- A copy of your most recent university transcript (unofficial or web versions accepted, PDF format preferred).
If selected, you will be invited to participate in an in-person or virtual interview with the local internship hosting team.
Financial support
A limited number of paid internship positions may be available. Students are not required to have a paid position with Oregon VR to be an intern.
- Paid positions are only available for students in graduate counseling programs doing their full 600 hours of internship with Oregon VR.
- A paid internship position constitutes an employment relationship with Oregon VR.
- Contact us directly to learn more.
Practicum
Practicum is only available for students who have been accepted as an intern.
- Students seeking a site for a practicum will need to note this on the
VR Practicum and Internship Application.
- Once a student accepts an offer of an internship, then a conversation can begin about the availability of a practicum.
- Academic practicum hours may not be completed during the same term or semester as your internship.
- Practicum is unpaid.
For more information about practicum and internship experiences with VR, please contact the VR Internship Coordinator.
Email vr.internship@odhsoha.oregon.gov
Phone 503-945-5880 or 877-277-0513
Fax 503-947-5025
Address
VR Internship Coordinator
500 Summer St NE, E87
Salem, OR 97301