Bridges for Parkinson’s
Summer 2026 Internship

Location:

In-person — Franklin / Nashville, TN

 

Internship Type:

• Part-time (approx. 20 hr/week)

• Summer 2026*

• Competitive Hourly Pay

 

*Internship dates and schedule will be discussed and coordinated to align with intern availability and program needs.

 

About Bridges for Parkinson’s:

 

Bridges for Parkinson’s is a Parkinson’s Disease fitness and wellness center dedicated to improving quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s disease through evidence-based exercise, cognitive engagement, and meaningful community connection. Our programs empower participants—our fighters—to move better, think sharper, and live more confidently.

 

We work closely with individuals at varying stages of Parkinson’s and prioritize safety, dignity, and individualized support in every class. Our program includes various group fitness classes, personal training, occupational therapy, physical therapy, bodywork therapy and more. 

 

Internship Overview:

 

This internship is designed for current students or recent graduates in Occupational Therapy, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Health & Human Performance, Physical Therapy–adjacent programs, or other allied health fields who are seeking hands-on experience working with neurological populations. 

 

Interns will serve as Assistant Coaches, supporting group classes, while gaining real-world exposure to movement, cueing, cognitive strategies, and community-based care. This is an active, people-focused internship ideal for students planning careers in OT, PT, rehab, adaptive fitness, or neuro-focused healthcare.
 

Key Responsibilities:

​

• Assist coaches during Parkinson’s-specific exercise classes

• Support participants with:

  • Safe movement, balance and form

  • Supervision and assistance for participants at increased risk for falls

  • Exercise modifications

  • Equipment setup and cleanup

• Provide verbal, visual, and tactile cueing as appropriate

• Build rapport with participants and care partners

• Observe and learn Parkinson’s-specific movement patterns and adaptations

• Assist with special events, workshops, or community programs as available

 

What You’ll Gain:

​

• Hands-on experience with individuals living with Parkinson’s disease

• Exposure to:

  • Neurological movement patterns

  • Adaptive exercise strategies

  • Cognitive + physical dual-tasking

  • Community-based therapeutic programming

• Mentorship from experienced Parkinson’s-trained coaches

• Resume-worthy clinical and professional experience

• Potential to transition into a long-term role after internship completion (as opportunities arise)

 

Ideal Candidates:

​

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from:

  • Occupational Therapy (OT or OTA)

  • Kinesiology / Exercise Science

  • Health & Human Performance

  • Physical Therapy–related fields

  • Other related programs

• Comfortable working with older adults

• Compassionate, patient, positive and reliable

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Interest in neurological conditions and community health

• CPR/AED certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)