At Secure Base Counseling Center, we have a robust training program for interns and pre-licensed therapists. What does this mean for you as a client? You may have some worries about working with a therapist who is newer in the field, or maybe you are unsure of how much an intern knows. However, working with an intern or pre-licensed therapist can have some benefits to you as a client! Please read on to learn more about interns and the potential benefits to seeing these amazing therapists.

What is a graduate intern or a pre-licensed therapist? 

A graduate intern is an individual who is nearing the end of their master’s degree in a clinical program (i.e. Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Counseling, etc). These individuals have finished almost all of their coursework and are thoroughly trained in the most up to date clinical information. The internship is typically the last step for interns to be able to graduate. Many of the individuals who complete their internships at SBCC stay with us beyond internship, and some do not. 

A pre-licensed therapist (often referred to as a clinical trainee) is an individual who has graduated with their master’s degree from a clinical program. They have completed their internship and are working towards independent licensure under the supportive guidance of a supervisor. 

Benefits of seeing an intern

Enthusiasm 

Interns and trainees often bring significant enthusiasm and energy as they are starting on a new career path. They are eager to meet you and excited to get to work! As a client, this is beneficial to you as that level of enthusiasm is sure to impact the relationship and the intern’s desire to do good work. 

Personalized Approaches

Interns often have smaller caseloads, which allows them to give more specific attention to each of their clients. This is extremely beneficial to you as a client! These therapists spend more of their time researching best approaches that will fit for you specifically and actively prepare for each session. You will be very cared for by an intern! 

Supervision

Interns and trainees receive supervision from a licensed, experienced therapist weekly or even biweekly. As a client, you will benefit from the wisdom and support of the supervisor even though you are not engaging with them directly. Interns and trainees regularly ask questions to their supervisor so that they are providing the best possible care to their clients. Their supervisor empowers them to be confident in themselves while also giving them information or strategies that will allow them to do their best work.

Flexible Schedules

You may find that you have been scheduled with an intern because you desperately needed that 7 pm time and an intern was available. Interns and trainees generally have more flexibility in their schedules and more openings for new clients compared to therapists who have been practicing for many years. 

Relationships:

The most important predictor of a successful therapy experience is the client’s relationship with their therapist. It’s not how much the therapist knows, or how long they have been practicing – it’s how well they connect with you as the client. You deserve to find a therapist who is the best fit for you. You may very well find that fit with an intern! 

In summary 

An intern may or may not be the best fit for you, but we hope that this information provides you with more clarity and understanding of the role of an intern at Secure Base Counseling Center. We love working with interns here and we hope you will too!