It is common to experience uncertainty or for questions to arise when given the option to have an intern as your therapist. Is an intern therapist qualified to help me? Do they have enough experience to understand my problems? How can I trust that they know what they’re doing?
In this post, I’m going to provide you with answers to the above questions as well as additional information on the benefits of working with an intern.
Qualifications
The most common misconception I hear about having an intern therapist is that they are not qualified to help. While interns may not have a license in front of their name, they have completed the same rigorous coursework and are completing the same training as those with an LSW or LPC license. Before interns can even begin meeting with clients, they have to complete specified coursework and be accepted to a practicum or internship site that meets the requirements of providing specified hours, supervision, and training. Interns are working under the close supervision of an experienced licensed therapist for a full school year or longer. This ensures that they are following ethical guidelines, implementing proper interventions, and providing the best care.
To provide an example of what a counseling program entails, I attend DePaul University to receive my MEd in clinical mental health counseling. This program is three years long, with the first two years consisting of all coursework, and the last year consisting of coursework in addition to practicum and internship experience. Before I was qualified to meet with clients, I completed two years of coursework totalling to 66 credit hours. I was then able to apply to practicum/internship sites that met DePaul’s requirements. During my practicum/internship year, I am required to obtain a total of 700 hours consisting of 280 direct and 420 indirect. This is divided by three quarters and is a minimum requirement where most students end up completing more. During my practicum/internship, I am also required to complete six courses (2 per quarter) totalling 24 credit hours for the year. The requirements might vary slightly depending on the University attended and the degree being sought, but this provides a general example of the work interns complete. Interns are not thrown into practice with zero knowledge or experience. They are using a foundation of knowledge in therapeutic approaches, theories, ethics, and other considerations to guide their work with clients. Plus, they are taught the most up to date information regarding best practices.
Experience
Interns innately have less experience sitting in the therapist’s seat than licensed therapists. However, that does not equate to less life experience or decreased ability to empathize with others. Intern therapists are trained to provide empathy, support, and unconditional positive regard, regardless of their age and lived experiences. Rigorous coursework helps students develop the necessary skills to connect with clients and provide a safe therapeutic environment. Because intern therapists are just beginning their profession and newly entering the field, they are often the most motivated and committed to learn and grow. This enhances their ability to empathize and support all clients.
As mentioned previously, interns work under the close supervision of an LCPC, LCSW, or clinical psychologist. Supervision is an opportunity to reflect on client experiences, receive feedback, and refine skills. Interns work with the same guidelines of confidentiality as licensed therapists. Confidentiality is maintained during case discussions between interns and supervisors, and clients are informed on the limits of confidentiality, consistent with licensed therapists, and the nature of the intern working under close supervision.
Benefits of Working with an Intern
Having an intern as a therapist comes with benefits! The first and most commonly utilized benefit is affordability. Intern session rates are significantly more affordable than those of licensed therapists, which means high quality care is provided at a lower cost. Interns also often have more flexibility in scheduling which increases the accessibility of consistent therapy sessions. Another benefit is that interns are enthusiastic and eager to apply the skills they have learned. They are new to the profession and provide a sense of energy and motivation. They are informed on the newest best practices and advancements of the field. This means that you can benefit from the most effective treatment modalities as informed by current research.
It is important to feel confident in your therapist’s abilities to support you. When working with an intern, don’t hesitate to ask questions about their training, experience, and supervision. A professional intern will be open about their qualifications and happy to answer questions to ensure you feel comfortable. With all this being said, it is important that you choose a therapist who you feel safe to express your thoughts and emotions with. Cutting Edge Counseling has an active internship program and can provide you with an intern therapist that is a good fit for your needs.
Written By,
Maria Mattox, Intern