CSD students from Illinois State University have the incredible opportunity to take part in a customized study abroad program in Dominica and Puerto Rico!

Escape the cold Illinois winter and spend your break exploring two beautiful Caribbean islands while gaining invaluable professional experience. Trade snow and freezing temperatures for lush rainforests, turquoise waters, waterfalls, and vibrant island culture. From the volcanic landscapes of Dominica to the colorful streets and rich history of Puerto Rico, you'll experience two unique destinations while making meaningful connections with local communities and fellow classmates.

No other program offers group travel, study abroad, and professional development experiences designed exclusively for students studying communication sciences and disorders and speech therapy. This unforgettable experience blends hands-on clinical practice—supervised by either your program faculty or one of our U.S.-licensed professionals—with rich cultural immersion, local excursions, meaningful community engagement, and time to explore the natural beauty and history of Dominica. You'll stay in locally owned hotels in underserved communities where your work can make a real difference.

Through our partnerships with Dominica's Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, and other local nonprofits, you'll gain firsthand exposure to how culture, language, and local systems shape healthcare and education—and return home with stronger clinical skills, a deeper sense of cultural humility, and memories that will last a lifetime.

A note from our Founder:

Therapy Abroad aims to provide more than just a study abroad program. Our goal is to support academic excellence and experiential education by offering custom program experiences relevant to students in their chosen field of study, along with opportunities for faculty involvement and research collaborations.

– Dr. Jessica Brown, PhD, CCC-SLP, MT-BC

Participating in Therapy Abroad programs is not just an academic endeavor—it’s a transformative experience that prepares them for successful careers in healthcare. The combination of hands-on learning, cultural immersion, and global exposure makes this program an invaluable educational opportunity that supports professional development. Even more important, students will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of our host countries that we have worked with for many years to ensure that they are safe, fun, and welcoming to all of our students and faculty. 

Therapy Abroad program methodology will be based on the principles of cooperative learning with a strong focus on action research and Project-Based Learning (PBL). A Therapy Abroad Facilitator will accompany you throughout your program, providing cultural resources and insights along the way and facilitating the learning and engagement process with each of our unique partners.

Cultural Understanding:

• Increase understanding of the norms, languages, and diverse cultures of Dominica.

• Identify and discuss the various cultural groups in Dominica and how those cultures influence assessment, intervention, tools, communication, and caregiver training.

• Analyze how cultural differences impact clinical practice 

Systemic Awareness:

• Gain knowledge of Dominica's medical systems, including their unique structures and challenges.

• Identify and discuss the differences between these systems and those in your home country.

• Analyze how these systemic differences impact service delivery and patient care in your respective field.

Clinical Skill Development:

• Identify and discuss culturally appropriate and sustainable evaluation and treatment techniques for diverse clients/patients in your field.

• Acquire new therapeutic skills relevant to students chosen field of study through observation, hands-on experience, and feedback.

• Implement and modify culturally appropriate intervention plans, utilizing appropriate strategies, approaches, materials, and instrumentation to meet the unique needs of clients/patients and their families.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Communicate effectively with clients/patients, families, caregivers, and colleagues, recognizing their needs, values, preferred modes of communication, and cultural/linguistic backgrounds.

• Develop effective collaboration strategies with local professionals and community members, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

• Practice inter-professional collaboration by interacting with students and professionals from other healthcare disciplines.

Ethical and Global Awareness:

• Analyze ethical considerations and global health issues relevant to your field in the context of Dominica.

• Reflect on how your own values, ideologies, philosophies, and knowledge influence your therapeutic approaches and interactions with different cultures.

• Develop a deeper understanding of the challenges and rewards of providing healthcare services in a global context.

Professional Development:

• Develop career-related knowledge and contacts through constant access to highly experienced professional clinicians in Dominica.

• Gain exposure to diverse clinical settings and patient populations, broadening your professional perspective.

Dominica is a small island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, between the French islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique. Also known as the "Nature Island," due to its lush rainforests, hot springs, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Carib people migrated to Dominica from South America in 1493, driving out the Arawak. The first French colonists in 1632 agreed to leave the land to the Caribs. In 1759, the British captured the island and was ceded in 1763. The island finally became fully self-governing under the 1967 constitution.

Therapy Abroad has partnered with Dominica's communities, schools, NGOs, universities and hospitals to help achieve the goals they've set forth for their citizens. In addition to developing critical hands-on skills working with Dominica's population; students can expect to learn about the history, cultural and natural environment of Dominica. There is diversity amongst culture, and language throughout the country. The island is home to a fusion of African, Caribbean, and European culture. The official language of Dominica is English. However, French Creole and Antillean Creole are widely spoken. The majority of the population is religiously affiliated with Roman Catholicism.

Puerto Rico is the smallest and easternmost island of the Greater Antilles in the Caribbean, located east of the Dominican Republic and west of the U.S. Virgin Islands. As a U.S. territory, it offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and American convenience. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush mountains, tropical rainforests, and vibrant cities. Puerto Rico's rich history reflects the influence of the Indigenous Taíno people, Spanish colonization beginning in 1493, African heritage, and American governance since 1898, creating a diverse and dynamic cultural identity.

Therapy Abroad incorporates Puerto Rico into this program to give students the opportunity to experience another distinct Caribbean culture. Students will discover the colorful streets and historic forts of Old San Juan, sample authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, and learn how the island's unique cultural and linguistic heritage influences the delivery of services. Spanish and English are both official languages, and the island's traditions reflect a vibrant fusion of Taíno, African, and Spanish influences that continue to shape daily life.

Experience the warmth and charm of Puerto Rico at Hotel Villa del Sol, a welcoming boutique hotel located in Isla Verde, just minutes from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport and a short walk from one of San Juan's most beautiful beaches. The hotel features a refreshing outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to local cafés, shops, and restaurants, allowing you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Puerto Rico. Its convenient location also makes it an ideal base for exploring Old San Juan, nearby clinics and community sites, and the island's many cultural and natural attractions.

Once you arrive in Dominica, your group will be based in Roseau, the capital city situated along the Caribbean Sea. In Roseau, accommodations are provided in a locally owned hotel, such as La Flamboyant, with convenient access to the city’s cultural and coastal offerings. There, you'll stay in private accommodations featuring shared spaces for relaxing and comfortable bedrooms. Students are in shared rooms with private bathrooms while faculty have single rooms. Amenities include Wi-Fi, fresh drinking water, air conditioning, Western-style toilets and showers, towels, and bedding.

Transport will be provided by private bus or van with a dedicated driver. Meals, prepared by local cooks, will feature a mix of Dominican and Western cuisine. Dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.

The warmth and hospitality of the people of Dominica will make you feel right at home!

We will work with you to coordinate group flights from ORD - SJU - DOM and back. Details will be provided once flights are finalized.

Everything is included in your program! There are no surprise costs, no hidden “optional activities,” and no upselling. The price covers all activities, materials, meals, and housing so you can focus on learning, exploring, and making the most of your time abroad without worrying about extra expenses.

The total Therapy Abroad price is $4,950 per student.

We recommend that students bring about $200 as pocket money for souvenirs any extra snacks they want.

If you choose to cancel, we will hold onto your initial deposit for you to use on a future Therapy Abroad trip. This deposit is not transferable to another person. Refund percentages include the non-refundable deposit:

• 100% refund for cancellations made 90+ days before departure.

• 75% refund for cancellations made 90–60 days before departure.

• 50% refund for cancellations made 59-45 days before departure.

• 0% refund for cancellations made within 44 days of departure.

Safety is our top priority, and we take a hands-on approach to ensure every aspect of your experience is secure. Every location, accommodation, and activity is personally vetted by Therapy Abroad directors. Dominica is a safe destination with strong infrastructure, and we work closely with the Ministries of Education and Health to organize every detail of your trip. From departure to return, we provide a seamless, worry-free experience. You’ll always be part of a group led by experienced facilitators—never outsourced staff. Our team ensures access to medical care, clean food and water, and reliable communication at all times.

Here are some links to our website that are worth exploring:

• Explore TherapyAbroad.org

• Our mission at Therapy Abroad

• Meet our team

• Why travel with us

• Read student and staff reviews

• FAQ

The itinerary on this page is provided as a sample to help guide the next steps in the planning process. Our team at Therapy Abroad will work closely with you to customize an itinerary that aligns with the academic goals and requirements of your institution.

Today begin your journey flying to San Juan, Puerto Rico! Meet your faculty and peers at ORD then travel as a group. Upon arriving, private transportation will take you to your hotel nearby to check-in. Enjoy a New Year's Eve dinner tonight in this new city!

Step back in time this morning as you explore Old San Juan, one of the oldest European settlements in the Americas and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. During a guided walking tour, you'll stroll through colorful cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old colonial buildings, visit iconic landmarks such as Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, and learn about the island's Spanish colonial history and strategic importance in the Caribbean. Along the way, you'll experience the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico through its architecture, plazas, local shops, and cuisine while taking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Today you'll depart San Juan for Dominica's Douglas–Charles Airport! Enjoy snacks during your private transfer to your accommodations, followed by an orientation to the area. 

During your Therapy Abroad Orientation, you’ll be introduced to our local team who will be with you throughout the program. Use this time to discuss goals and expectations set forth by supervisors and students. 

Happy New Year! Today you'll start 2027 visiting residents at the Dominica Infirmary. Listen to their traditions around the holidays growing up in this country.

The Dominica Infirmary is the oldest institution in Dominica providing care for senior citizens. The institution was originally set up by the Roman Catholic Church which later formed a partnership with the Government. The Infirmary has 93 patients, 80% of which are geriatric patients. Many of them suffer from mobility issues as well as speech and language issues due to stroke. The D.I. is also a full infirmary that sees patients of all ages with every type of ailment. Students will be able to work directly with patients in all health fields.

After lunch, you'll venture out on to enjoy the beautiful Nature Isle! This may include visiting Scotts Head Point and Soufriere Village. Visit the Southern tip where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic, with a fun natural “bubble bath” swim. 

This morning you will head to the Kalinago Territory. There's no better way to connect with the rhythm of tropical life than by visiting the Kalinago Territory, home to the Kalinago. The descendants of the island's original people, the Kalinago, are always eager to treat guests to the joys of living with nothing more than what the land, sea, and sky provide.

Originally known as the Caribs, the Kalinago are believed to have originally come from South America and represent the last remaining tribe of the pre-Columbian Carib Indians, going back to about 3000 B.C.

Take a dip in the cold waters of the Emerald Pool this afternoon to cool off! One of Dominica’s most visited attractions, Emerald Pool, is a small 40-foot waterfall that cascades into a pool that appears green in the leafy, filtered sunlight. Located in the heart of the island, at the northern edge of Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Emerald Pool has become rather iconic as a visual representation of Dominica.

PHARCS: Institute for Geriatrics provides dignified care aimed at enhancing quality of life for seniors. They encourage an active lifestyle and raise awareness of persons suffering with dementia and de-stigmatizing dementia in the Caribbean. PHARCS has 30 residents - all senior citizen geriatric patients suffering from some form of Alzheimer’s or dementia. They have three facilities. At one facility, PHARCS offers limited rehabilitation services. Students will interact with patients, offer assistance to staff, and provide recommendations based on their respective field of study. Interactions typically include help with ADLs, feeding, cognitive stimulation and reminiscence therapy, and playing interactive games. 

Pack your swimsuit and towel today for an afternoon at Mero Beach. This is a beautiful, popular beach for locals and tourists. The black sand is formed from hundreds of years of volcanic activity.

Today the group will divide into two teams. One will visit a local school for pediatric sessions while the other will go to Yes, We Care. This program provides personal home care for elderly and housebound individuals with disabilities. Yes, We Care sends healthcare professionals into the community to visit approximately 150 homes, providing comprehensive care for patients with diverse needs and diagnoses.

You'll have the opportunity to accompany Yes, We Care staff and work directly with patients in their homes, learning about their experiences and Dominica's culture of health. You're encouraged to offer recommendations for clients and staff based on your field of study. We may also arrange a training for their staff based on their identified needs as it correlates to your field of study. 

At the school, you may complete evaluations or screenings.

Visit Dominica’s Old Market and waterfront shopping area. This is an incredibly historic place. This was one of the major trading markets in the Caribbean, and unfortunately, was primarily used a slave-trading market for centuries. Today, the market has found new life though as a center of arts and crafts on the island, showcasing local goods and giving traders and craftspeople a place to sell their unique cultural creations. You‘ll have time to explore the waterfront and take pictures as well.

This morning your teams will switch locations and populations. Those who worked with children yesterday will conduct home health visits today and vice versa.

After a quick lunch, head to Champagne Reef where you will go snorkeling. Underwater, you will find a wide array of coral reefs and marine life! What makes it special are the hot vents that continually emit volcanic gases, causing a weird ‘champagne’ effect as you snorkel through the water.

Today you will visit the Dominica-Chinese Friendship hospital. This is the only major hospital on the island. We will hold a pop up clinic to conduct hearing screenings and speech and language screenings. You'll also have a chance to meet with other professionals such as the country's only ENT, the hospital PT, and nurses.

Complete any final documentation this morning before we head to the airport. You'll have a late breakfast and time to pick up any snacks before catching your early afternoon flight to San Juan. Upon arrival, check into the hotel. Tonight you'll have a farewell dinner before your last flight home tomorrow.

We hope you’ve had an incredible time and will stay in touch with us.

Use this time to reflect on your clinical experiences and appreciate the culture you learned about! Don’t forget to leave us a review on GoAbroad.com.