Seeing a counselling intern can actually have some real advantages, depending on your situation and what you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
🪙 1. Lower Cost or Free Services
Counselling interns offer therapy at a reduced rate since they’re still in training. This can make therapy much more accessible if cost is a concern. If you don’t have insurance, or don’t have a lot of money for counselling through your insurance, seeing an intern may make the most sense.
🧠 2. Fresh Training & Current Knowledge
Interns are typically immersed in the latest evidence-based practices and research. They’re learning the newest techniques and theories in real time, often supervised by very experienced professionals.
🧍♀️🧍 3. More Time and Personal Attention
Because they don’t carry heavy caseloads like many licensed therapists do, interns often have more time and emotional bandwidth to devote to each client. Sessions might feel less rushed and more personal. Also, interns often are willing to work more evening hours and Saturdays, providing more options and flexibility if you have a tight or busy schedule!
🪞 4. Supervision = Extra Support
Interns work under licensed supervisors, which means you’re essentially getting two brains working on your case—yours and their supervisor’s. It’s like having an extra layer of quality control.
💬 5. Open-Mindedness and Empathy
Many clients find that interns are more open, curious, and nonjudgmental, since they’re still building their therapeutic identity and aren’t locked into a specific approach yet. This can lead to a more collaborative and flexible experience.
🙋♀️ So, When Might an Intern Be a Great Fit?
- You’re looking for affordable therapy
- You want to try therapy for the first time
- You need evening or Saturday appointment times
- You’re okay with someone who’s still learning
- You’re open to a collaborative and evolving process
We currently have two amazing counselling interns on our team who are accepting new clients. To inquire, book, or set up a FREE 15 minute consultation with one of them and to begin your journey towards healing and wellness, call 902-812-1717 or email office@growwellcounselling.ca