practicum /internship program
What is a Practicum/Internship?
Practicum
Short-term training experience, while an internship is a longer-term job-like experience. Both provide hands-on experience that helps graduate students apply their knowledge in the real world. Typically, a shorter, supervised training experience is required during a graduate program.
Short-term and supervised, it involves observing and documenting how professionals perform their jobs, and helps students develop understanding.
Focuses on developing foundational counseling skills and understanding.
It may involve more observation and less independent work than an internship.
Often, it is a stepping stone to the internship phase.
Internship
More extended and independent than practicums. A more extended and independent experience focused on clinical and professional development.
Involve applying skills and knowledge in the workplace.
Help students understand how to implement their understanding in the real world.
Typically takes place later in a student's program than a practicum.
Allows students to work more independently, applying skills and knowledge in real-world settings.
Interns are expected to perform duties similar to those of a licensed professional.
Often required for licensure or certification in counseling.
Similarities
Both practicums and internships provide hands-on experience.
Both involve working under the supervision of professionals.
While both practicums and internships are supervised on-site experiences, a clinical mental health counseling practicum student is generally considered a student gaining practical experience, while an intern is often seen as a student closer to independent practice.
When to use
Practicums are often used to prepare teachers and clinicians.
Internships are often required for most majors.
Where to find
The American Counseling Association has resources for finding practicum and internship opportunities.
CACREP has guidelines for practicums and internships for counseling students.
Mental Health Counselor - Intern
Practicum and Internship
Mental Health Counselor - Interns are not paid by our private practice, Summerville Women’s Mental Health Services (SWMHS), or by our non-profit, The X-Studio: A Mental Health Cooperative (The X-Studio). However, we do charge clients a significantly reduced fee for each visit with them, which supports our non-profit organization, its internship program, and its community programs and community projects.
They serve children/adolescents, couples, families, and individuals who are unable to afford mental health services due to financial challenges, low or lack of income, high insurance deductibles or copayments, or because they are underinsured or uninsured.
The Mental Health Counselor - Intern reduced-cost fees are made affordable for the community.
This is a unique practicum and internship opportunity! The Mental Health Counselor - Intern role is to provide quality mental health care and support to clients and their families, shadow and assist professional counselors/therapists who provide direct therapeutic counseling/therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups as appropriate to address the mental health needs of clients. The Mental Health Counselor - Intern carries out all counseling/therapy responsibilities following Summerville Women’s Mental Health Services’ policies and procedures.
Responsibilities and Duties
All duties are completed under supervision by a direct supervisor.
Provide direct/telehealth or in-person clinical treatment/therapeutic counseling as appropriate to children, adolescents, parents/guardians, couples, and families.
Assess client needs, develop treatment plans, implement interventions, review outcomes, revisit/revise strategies, and employ other methods compatible with SWMHS principles and practices.
Engage clients, support clients, caregivers, and other key participants in active, change-oriented treatment by identifying and overcoming obstacles to participation.
Collaborate with all relevant internal/external systems/participants to ensure buy-in and cooperation, and to maximize effectiveness throughout treatment.
Link consumers to additional resources as appropriate, including schools, SCDHHS medical/mental health support, etc.
Maintain clear and concise documentation of treatment efforts, which promotes peer and supervisory review and feedback.
Participate in team meetings, staff events, community events, peer support, supervision, and internal or external professional development opportunities to extend knowledge and remain current on best practices.
Maintain personal integrity and follow the guidelines of the national and state ethical codes of practice as well as SWMHS codes of conduct.
Attend regular supervision with a direct supervisor per internship requirements for graduation.
Qualifications & Skill
Observation is a cornerstone of most mental health internships. You'll have the chance to shadow counselors/therapists during sessions, observing how they interact with clients and utilize different therapeutic techniques. This firsthand experience is invaluable for learning the ropes.
Observation
Observation is a cornerstone of most mental health internships. You'll have the chance to shadow counselors/therapists during sessions, observing how they interact with clients and utilize different therapeutic techniques. This firsthand experience is invaluable for learning the ropes.
Observing counseling/therapy sessions can also give you a glimpse of how professionals establish trust, ask thought-provoking questions, and adapt their style to each client's needs.
Client Interaction
Some practicums and internships offer invaluable opportunities for direct client interaction. Imagine leading support and counseling/therapy groups, facilitating psychoeducational activities, or even assisting with therapeutic tasks under close supervision. These experiences go beyond textbook knowledge, allowing you to put your skills into practice and build valuable relationships.
Direct client interaction also fosters the development of essential communication and interpersonal skills in a real-world setting. Great counselors/therapists are, after all, masters of active listening and empathy. That said, by interacting with clients, you'll learn to truly listen, validate their experiences, and build trust – all crucial for effective therapy.
Research and Project Work
Research and project work are other possibilities. Some internship opportunities let you participate in research projects, develop new programs, or contribute to community outreach programs. These experiences help you hone your research skills, learn about program development, and gain a broader understanding of clinical mental health services in the community.
Research projects can also expose you to cutting-edge advancements in mental health treatment. The skills you gain here can be valuable whether you pursue a career in research or direct client care.
Professional Development
Some internships offer training sessions and meetings, allowing you to connect with experts, gain fresh perspectives, and learn emerging best practices in mental health care. Take advantage of these opportunities to ask questions, network with other professionals, and learn from their experiences.
Social Media Platforms, Podcast, and YouTube Channel
Mental Health Interns will be given tasks in the production, management, and content posting of SWMHS’s mental health social media platforms, podcast, and YouTube channel.
Building Your Skillset: What You'll Learn During Your Internship
A mental health practicum and internship isn't just about completing tasks; it's about acquiring valuable knowledge and skills. Here are some key areas where you can expect to grow:
Clinical Skills
Clinical skills are a core focus; you might learn about assessment tools used to diagnose mental health conditions, treatment planning strategies, and different therapeutic approaches like talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), etc. Observing experienced counselors/therapists can give you a strong foundation in these essential skills.
But don't just watch people work; ask questions! Understanding the rationale behind therapists' choices can deepen your learning and help you develop your clinical judgment.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES
Service Requirements
Counseling/Therapy: Caseload of individuals, couples, or families weekly: intakes weekly.
Group Counseling/Therapy: Co-lead a group.
Outreach Programming: Conduct programs/workshops as assigned by the Clinical Director (Xiomara A. Sosa)
Training Requirements
Supervision: Individual supervision weekly.
Training Seminars: Regularly attend and participate in training and learning seminars, videos, webinars, etc.
Meetings: Attend/participate in a weekly peer consultation meeting with Xiomara A. Sosa
Administrative Requirements
Clinical Records: Maintain clinical records following SWMHS procedures within 48 hours of the session
Staff Meetings: Attend/participate in weekly staff meetings
Evaluation: Complete/submit evaluation forms as assigned
Additional and Optional Opportunities
Training: Attend conferences/workshops outside of SWMHC.
Specific Areas: Seek out additional opportunities in testing, groups, programming, etc.
Research: Read/research resources and materials; initiate new projects.
Professional skills are equally important; effective communication, active listening, and cultural competency are all crucial for building rapport with clients and providing culturally sensitive care. Your practicum and internship will provide opportunities to hone these essential skills through interactions with clients and colleagues.
Communication is a two-way street. So, observe both verbal and nonverbal cues to understand what clients are trying to express.
Self-Awareness and Growth
Self-awareness and growth are essential in this field, as working with mental health issues can be emotionally demanding. Your internship will likely involve exploring your own biases and developing healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and avoid burnout. This self-awareness will serve you well throughout your career.
Networking
Networking is a powerful tool for anyone, and you can do it during your practicum and internship. You can build relationships with your supervisor, colleagues, and other mental health professionals you meet.
Introduce yourself and ask your supervisor and experienced colleagues questions. Don't be shy! These connections you build during your internship could become valuable mentors or even future colleagues.
Challenges and Triumphs of Your Practicum and Internship
While incredibly rewarding, practicums and internships in mental health care can be emotionally demanding. Difficult situations, exposure to trauma, and complex client interactions are all part of the territory. However, these challenges can also present growth opportunities.
The key lies in maintaining professional boundaries while offering genuine care and understanding. And remember, your supervisors are there to guide you, too; they understand the importance of emotional well-being and can equip you with the tools to navigate tough cases with resilience and compassion.
The rewards are equally significant; helping clients is a rewarding feeling. Witnessing client progress and knowing you're making a positive difference can also be incredibly fulfilling. You'll gain valuable hands-on experience that you can use even outside of a professional setting. These triumphs can fuel your motivation and solidify your passion for this important field.
Setting Yourself Up for Success: Essential Tips for Your Internship
Preparation is key to a successful internship. So, research the organization you'll be working with, familiarize yourself with their professional dress code, and prepare questions for your supervisor. This proactive approach demonstrates your interest.
Communication is essential; keep your supervisor informed about your progress and ask clarifying questions when needed. This shows you're eager to learn and contribute to the team.
Moreover, keep in mind that respect and professionalism are vital traits to have in this field. So, it's crucial to always maintain client confidentiality, respect boundaries, and uphold ethical practices. Your professionalism will build trust with clients and colleagues and leave a positive impression.
Most importantly, do not skip self-care. Working in behavioral health can be emotionally draining. Be sure to take breaks throughout the day to recharge. Developing healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress is helpful, too. Whether it's exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones, find practices that replenish your emotional well-being. Creating a healthy work-life balance is key. And remember, taking care of yourself isn't selfish; it will help you avoid burnout and ensure you can continue providing effective and compassionate care to others.
Post-Practicum and Post-Internship Prospects
Your practicum and internship could be your springboard for a fulfilling career in mental health:
Applying the Practicum and Internship Experience to Future Endeavors
Your internship isn't just about gaining experience; it's an investment in your future success. For one, the skills you honed are valuable assets that can translate seamlessly into your job search.
Craft a compelling resume highlighting your internship and tailor it to specific job requirements. Meanwhile, during interviews, go beyond simply listing your duties; connect your experiences to the required skills. Did you facilitate support groups? Talk about your leadership abilities and how you cultivated a safe and supportive environment. Gained research experience?
Emphasize your analytical abilities.
Don't overlook transferable skills! The interpersonal skills developed through client interaction translate well to any field. Effective communication, empathy, and active listening can significantly strengthen your candidacy. Similarly, administrative tasks showcase your organizational abilities and attention to detail.
By leveraging your internship experience strategically, you'll be well-positioned to land your dream job.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
The learning doesn't stop here! The mental health field is constantly evolving. So, stay up-to-date by attending workshops and conferences and seeking relevant certifications. You may also consider pursuing a graduate degree, such as a Master's in Social Work or a Doctorate in Psychology, to specialize further and advance your career.
Final Thoughts
Your practicum and internship are a journey of discovery. So, embrace the challenges, actively seek learning opportunities, and don't hesitate to ask questions. This experience will equip you with practical skills and valuable knowledge, provide a deeper understanding of the mental health field, build your confidence, and solidify your passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
But the learning continues beyond your internship. Reflect on your experiences and identify your strengths and areas for development; this self-assessment will help you chart your future career path within mental health. Moreover, there are many resources available to support your journey. Professional organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) offer a wealth of information and career development tools. You can also explore online communities or attend conferences to connect with other mental health professionals.
Mental Health Counselor - Intern Services offers no-cost and reduced-cost mental health services to the community
Our Mental Health Counselor - Interns offer no-cost and reduced-cost clinical mental health services to the community.
They serve children/adolescents, couples, families, and individuals who are unable to afford mental health services due to financial challenges, low or lack of income, high insurance deductibles or copayments, or because they are underinsured or uninsured.
Here at Summerville Women’s Mental Health Services (SWMHS), we are a teaching private practice. This means we allow Master’s Level Graduate Students (Mental Health Counselor-Interns) from accredited graduate programs to obtain real-life experience in the counseling/therapy profession alongside our more seasoned clinicians. This is very important to provide continued quality care in the mental health field, and it also allows us to provide counseling/therapy at a lower cost or no cost to clients in need.
We want counseling/therapy to be accessible to everyone who needs it, not just those who can afford it.
At SWMHS, we know that professional counseling/therapy is a financial investment. We want to provide clients with high-quality mental health care that also fits their budget needs. We are proud to offer no-cost and reduced-cost counseling/therapy by our Mental Health Counselor - Interns. They undergo vigorous training and are supervised by Senior Licensed Clinicians.
To help meet the financial needs of community members in need, we offer an option that can help significantly lower the cost of ongoing counseling/therapy.
Reduced-cost therapy, also known as low-fee therapy, is an approach to making mental health care more accessible and affordable for everyone. At SWMHS, we understand that financial constraints can be a significant barrier to seeking help. That’s why we’ve developed a program that offers high-quality counseling/therapy services at reduced rates and no cost.
Our reduced-cost counseling/therapy service is designed to provide excellent care at rates that fit the client’s budget. We ensure that counseling/therapy is within reach for individuals from all walks of life.
Key Features of our Reduced Cost Counseling/Therapy service:
No Waitlist: Start your healing journey without delay.
Low cost: All counseling/therapy sessions and assessments by Mental Health Interns are $30 if you are eligible and qualify. Our low fee makes mental health care accessible to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it.
Local unhoused women receive mental health care at no cost.
High-Quality Care: Benefit from the fresh perspectives of Mental Health Counselor - Interns combined with the wisdom of experienced supervisors.
Receive the same dedication and support as our full-fee clients.
Flexible Scheduling: Find appointment times that work with your busy life.
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Our Practicum/Internship Program: Quality Care at Affordable Rates
Our affordable counseling/therapy services are provided by Mental Health Counselor - Interns who are completing their graduate-level training in clinical programs. They undergo a rigorous selection process and receive extensive training before working with clients.
Professional Supervision
Clients work with a Mental Health Counselor - Interns and benefit from the expertise of a senior-level clinician supervisor. Every Mental Health Counselor - Intern is closely supervised by a licensed professional with years of experience in the field. This dual approach ensures that you receive comprehensive, high-quality care at a fraction of the cost of traditional counseling/therapy.
Mental Health Counselor - Interns’ counseling/therapy can be just as effective as standard-priced counseling/therapy, but at a discounted rate. The key factor in counseling/therapy’s effectiveness is not the cost but the quality of care provided and the relationship between the counselor/therapist and client. At SWMHS, we ensure that all our counselors/therapists are well-trained and supervised to provide the highest quality of care.
How Does Reduced-Cost Counseling/Therapy Work?
Our reduced-cost counseling/therapy program follows a structured process:
Counselor/Therapist Matching: You’ll be matched with a qualified Licensed Professional Counselor-Intern whose skills align with your needs.
Initial Assessment: We begin with an assessment to understand your specific needs.
Regular Sessions: You’ll attend regular counseling/therapy sessions, just as you would in standard-priced therapy.
Ongoing Supervision: Your Licensed Professional Counselor-Intern receives regular supervision from a licensed, experienced clinician.
Work with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern:
A Mental Health Counselor - Intern is someone who is finishing the final portion of graduate school and works in the community to provide counseling under the supervision of a Licensed Professional to fulfill their graduation requirements. They can be finishing either a Master's or Doctoral Degree in counseling or a related field. They are generally well-trained and eager to apply their knowledge to the clients they help. Also, since they are actively in a graduate program, they are being trained on all the newest and best treatment options available and have access to cutting-edge research.
At SWMHS, we interview and hire only the best interns and then train and supervise them as they learn how to work in a private practice setting. Because Mental Health Counselor - Interns need to complete a set number of hours to graduate, they are willing and able to provide a very low fee for their counseling/therapy experience.
counseling/therapy reduced-cost:
A reduced cost is when a Mental Health Counselor - Intern offers a reduced fee for sessions for a client who has a financial need to help make counseling/therapy more affordable.
If you would like to begin counseling/therapy but can not afford to pay the regular rate, please contact us and ask about the reduced cost fee. If all our reduced-cost spots are full, we will be happy to put you on a waiting list until a spot opens up.
In Charleston and Summerville, South Carolina, Mental Health Counselor - Interns typically charge between $30 and $80 per session; this price range reflects the standard for most Mental Health Interns, with the exact cost often depending on the specific practice, the intern's experience, and whether a reduced cost is offered based on income.
Many mental health professionals have stopped accepting insurance for payment and have moved to provide services only on a self-pay basis. There are many valid reasons for this. Insurance companies require that we assign you a “Diagnosis Code”, which becomes a part of your permanent medical record.
Some people are uncomfortable with this and the potential impact it could have on them in the future. Insurance companies often require information to be sent to them about what happens in sessions to justify payment, and can put stipulations on how many sessions they will allow a client to attend before they will no longer pay for sessions.
They also require lengthy billing processes and can be slow to reimburse providers for work they have already done. Due to these stipulations and the challenges that often come for providers regarding receiving payment from insurance companies, we prefer to work with clients on a self-pay basis only due to the reasons stated above.
Reference: https://favacounseling.com/affordable-counseling-services/
Key points to remember about Mental Health Counselor - Interns’ fees:
Lower than licensed therapists:
Due to their training status, Mental Health Counselor - Interns usually charge significantly less than fully licensed therapists.
Reduced cost options:
Many practices allow Mental Health Counselor - Interns to offer a reduced-cost fee, meaning the cost is adjusted based on the client's income.
Supervision required:
Mental Health Counselor - Interns must be supervised by a licensed counselor/therapist, which can influence pricing.
At SWMHS, we recognize that financial challenges can often be barriers to seeking important mental health services and support. To address this challenge, we’ve created a comprehensive, reduced-cost counseling/therapy program to offer to community members who need it. We have Master’s Level Mental Health Counselor - Interns at our center available at a reduced cost to those who qualify.
Our Mental Health Counselor - Interns are supervised by senior licensed clinicians and receive comprehensive training from them. When you choose our Mental Health Counselor - Interns services, you benefit from a collaborative and supportive approach to therapy that we hold to the highest standards of care while addressing and accommodating different financial needs in the community.
The Benefits of Working with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern
Mental Health Counselor - Interns are well-established graduate students with a wealth of psychological knowledge and the ambition to help people
They usually come with reduced costs, making them more feasible for clients who have tight budgets. This makes Mental Health Counselor - Interns a great choice for uninsured or unemployed clients.
Why are Mental Health Counselor - Interns allowed to treat clients when they’re not fully licensed?
For people to become counselors/therapists, they must go through the process of clinical supervision. Mental Health Counselor - Interns work under a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) as their Clinical Supervisor while they develop skills and real-world experience before taking their exam to become fully licensed.
They apply what they learned in school to real-life clients so they can adjust their technique as they go. To gain licensure, they must fulfill all required hours of clinical supervision and pass the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam (NCMHCE) or the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE), depending on what state they are testing.
This journey is highly reflective for the intern, and it involves weekly meetings with their supervisor to go over that week’s caseload. Supervisors and supervisees may take turns actively working on a case vs. observing a case. This helps them compare techniques and adjust strategies to best suit each client’s needs.
Why should I trust a counselor/therapist-in-training?
Confidentiality
Clinical supervision has many fail-safes to ensure that Mental Health Counselor - Interns treat clients appropriately and ethically. The first and most important standard is ensuring confidentiality between you, them, and their supervisor. It’s at the forefront of the client-therapist relationship. Your Mental Health Intern should make it clear during the first session that even though they’re in training, they still follow every standard that licensed counselors do.
Transparency
Everything you work on with your Mental Health Counselor - Interns is accessible to the licensed professional who’s mentoring them. To fulfill the requirements of their program, their supervisor must ethically monitor all of their work, from reviewing treatment plans to being present during sessions. This ensures that nothing gets missed if the intern makes a mistake because of their newness. Their supervisor has the power to adjust treatment plans and provide feedback as needed to keep the client’s needs in focus.
Wealth of Knowledge
Mental Health Counselor - Interns are typically very up-to-date people in counseling/therapy practices. Coming straight from university, they have access to all the latest research, theories, and techniques. When you work with a Mental Health Intern, you’re working with someone who is on the cutting edge of therapeutic techniques. This is someone who currently devotes much of their energy toward being the best therapist they can be.
Excitement
Mental Health Counselor - Interns train for this day through textbooks, essays, and tests, making them incredibly eager and excited to finally work with clients. You’re never going to work with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern who seems apathetic, disinterested, or unwilling to work on your case. They’re very invested in the work they are doing. Anyone who commits to being a counselor/therapist long enough to get to clinical supervision can help you cope with life’s toughest battles.
Reference: Unload It Therapy, Roma Williams
Working with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern
At SWMHS, we have Mental Health Counselor - Interns as a part of our counseling/therapy team. Working with a Mental Health Counselor - Interns can be a unique experience for clients. It offers its own set of advantages and considerations.
What exactly is a Mental Health Counselor - Intern?
A Mental Health Counselor - Intern is usually someone who is completing their graduate degree (Master’s, Doctorate, etc.) in the fields of counseling/therapy, marriage and family therapy, social work, or psychology. These interns have to complete multiple internships while completing their program to gain more relevant experience before they graduate and can pursue licensure. Typically, these internships occur at the end of a student’s graduate program, and they likely already have received some counseling experience through a practicum, as well as through their graduate studies.
What type of supervision and guidance do Mental Health Counselor - Interns have?
A Mental Health Counselor - Interns will be working under the close supervision of licensed mental health clinicians. Typically, they are required to have a supervisor at their internship site, as well as a university supervisor, both of whom meet weekly with the Mental Health Intern. This means that they are typically getting 1-3 hours a week of dedicated supervision.
Are there things a Mental Health Counselor - Intern can and can not do?
Every graduate program has slightly different requirements, but in general, Mental Health Counselor - Interns can not bill insurance for their sessions and can not provide superbills if their practice site is not in network with insurance. They will also require supervision to diagnose and treat. Their clinical experience falls largely under the license of their supervisor. The supervisor has to sign off on much of the Mental Health Counselor-Intern's internship paperwork, therapy notes, etc., which increases the oversight the Mental Health Counselor-Intern receives.
Are there positives to working with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern?
There are many great reasons why a client would choose to work with a Mental Health Counselor - Inter. Here are some of the benefits for clients to work with a Mental Health Counselor - Interns during counseling/therapy sessions:
1. Fresh Perspectives:
Clients may benefit from the fresh perspectives that Mental Health Counselor - Interns bring to counseling/therapy sessions.
Mental Health Counselor - Interns are often well-versed in the latest therapeutic techniques and approaches, which can offer new insights into their challenges and provide innovative solutions.
2. Increased Availability:
Having Mental Health Counselor - Interns as part of the counseling/therapy team can increase counselor/therapist availability, potentially reducing wait times and making it easier for clients to schedule appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for clients seeking immediate support.
3. Collaboration:
Clients may find that working with a Mental Health Counselor - Interns introduces a collaborative element to their counseling/therapy. Mental Health Counselor - Interns are typically open to client input and may be more receptive to exploring alternative therapeutic methods based on the client’s preferences.
4. Diverse Backgrounds:
Mental Health Counselor - Interns often come from diverse backgrounds, and this diversity can enhance the client experience. In addition, Mental Health Counselor - Interns can be more sensitive to cultural and demographic differences because of the emphasis placed on diversity and multicultural competence through their current graduate studies, contributing to a more inclusive and culturally competent therapeutic environment.
5. Structured Learning:
Mental Health Counselor - Interns receive structured supervision and guidance from experienced counselors/therapists. This ensures that the counseling/therapy provided by Mental Health Counselor - Interns aligns with professional standards and ethical guidelines. Clients can have confidence that their treatment is carefully monitored.
6. Potential for Lower Costs:
Some counseling/therapy practices offer sessions with a Mental Health Counselor - Interns at a reduced cost. This can make counseling/therapy more accessible to clients who may have financial constraints.
7. Potential for Future Collaboration:
A successful counseling/therapy experience with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern can lead to a future therapeutic relationship. Mental Health Counselor - Interns who complete their training may transition into licensed therapists and may continue to work with clients who initially started counseling/therapy with them during their internship.
Are there potential downsides to working with an intern counselor/therapist?
Yes. Despite all the positives to working with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern, the main disadvantage is that you are getting someone who does not have as much experience as a licensed counselor/therapist who has been working in the counseling/therapy field for a much longer time. You also may not get all the specialized training or certifications that someone who has been counseling for a long time has received.
How can I know if working with an intern is right for me?
The best recommendation is to do your research. If you know a practice you are considering working with has Mental Health Interns providing counseling/therapy, ask questions of the practice's clinical director, or consider chatting with the Mental Health Intern directly before starting counseling/therapy. Here are some ideas on how to do that and what to ask:
1. Schedule a free consultation call with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern.
Most Mental Health Counselors - Interns in counseling/therapy practices will offer free consultation calls, and this will give you a chance to talk with them about their counseling/therapy experience so far.
2. Ask about their experience level and if they’ve already completed any internships.
Someone who is in their first internship versus someone who is in their third internship could have very different skill levels. In addition, many Mental Health Interns are getting experience through volunteer or other work opportunities, despite not being licensed yet. This all can add to the experience level of a Mental Health Counselor - Intern.
3. Ask about specializations.
A graduate program in Marriage and Family Therapy is going to include a lot of training in couples and family counseling/therapy. Some graduate programs have special emphasis on Addiction or Trauma, for example, and may provide additional classes and training for their students, making them very qualified to assist clients. Knowing about any specializations will help you decide if a Mental Health Counselor - Intern will be able to help with what you are looking for.
Working with a Mental Health Counselor - Intern can offer clients a range of benefits, including fresh perspectives, increased availability, and a diverse and inclusive approach to counseling/therapy. While there are some limitations, clients can generally expect that their counseling/therapy with Mental Health Intern is structured, supervised, and in adherence to ethical standards.
It’s also an opportunity for clients to contribute to the development of future counselors/therapists and potentially continue their therapeutic journey with the same individual once they become licensed professionals.
If you have more questions or would like to get started with one of our Mental Health Counselor - Interns, please schedule an appointment with our team.
Our reduced fee counseling/therapy services are here to help. We’re committed to providing affordable therapy options without sacrificing quality or compassion.
Don’t let financial constraints hold you back from seeking the support you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our reduced-cost counseling/therapy options and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.