Should You Work With a Therapy Intern? Here’s What to Know
When searching for a mental health professional, you might encounter the option to work with a therapy intern. It’s natural to feel hesitant—questions like, “Will they know what they’re doing?” or “Am I just a practice client?” often come to mind. These concerns are valid, but they don’t tell the whole story.
The truth is, therapy interns are highly trained professionals in the final stages of their education, working under close supervision. In fact, they often bring unique advantages to the table, including fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and the latest research-backed techniques. This blog will explore the rigorous training therapy interns undergo, debunk myths about experience, and highlight the benefits of working with an intern.
The Myth of Experience: Why More Isn’t Always Better
It’s easy to assume that more experience equals better results. However, research in psychotherapy tells a different story. Studies show that after an initial period of gaining competence, therapists don’t necessarily improve with more years in practice. In some cases, they may even become less effective if they don’t engage in continuous learning and self-reflection.
What actually sets great therapists apart isn’t their experience—it’s their ability to connect with clients, adapt to individual needs, and remain open to feedback. These qualities are just as likely to be found in a therapy intern as in a seasoned professional.
For more on what makes a great therapist, check out our blog: How to Know You’ve Found the Right Therapist, Coach, or Healthcare Professional.
What Makes a "Master Therapist"?
Research on "master therapists" reveals that their effectiveness stems from specific skills and attributes, not just years in the field. These include:
Responsiveness: The ability to adapt interventions to meet clients’ needs in the moment.
Empathy and Authenticity: Creating a safe, genuine space where clients feel understood.
Humility and Openness: A willingness to learn, accept feedback, and grow.
Emotional Regulation: Managing personal biases to maintain a strong therapeutic relationship.
These qualities are cultivated through intentional practice and rigorous training—hallmarks of a therapy intern’s education.
The Rigorous Path to Becoming a Therapist
Therapy interns are not amateurs; they are graduate-level professionals in the most intensive phase of their training. Here’s a closer look at the journey:
1. Graduate Education
Therapists must complete a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling or a related field. This includes coursework in theory, ethics, and therapeutic techniques.
2. Supervised Practicum and Internship
During their degree program, interns complete hundreds of hours of supervised client work, applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
3. Post-Graduate Supervised Practice
After graduation, they must accumulate 4,000 hours of supervised work experience, meeting regularly with a licensed supervisor to refine their skills.
4. Licensing Exam
Finally, they pass a rigorous exam, such as the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE), to demonstrate their clinical expertise.
This process ensures that by the time a therapist is licensed, they are thoroughly trained and vetted.
The CMPC Credential in Sport Psychology
For those in sport and performance psychology, the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential signifies a high standard of training. To earn this certification, professionals must:
Hold a master’s or doctoral degree in a relevant field.
Complete coursework in sport psychology interventions and ethics.
Accumulate 400 hours of mentored experience, including 200 hours of direct client work.
This ensures that CMPCs are well-equipped to support athletes in achieving peak performance.
If you’re considering working with a sport psychologist, you might also wonder about costs. Check out our blog: How Much Does a Sports Psychologist Cost? for a breakdown of what to expect.
The Advantages of Working With a Therapy Intern
Far from being a "practice client," working with a therapy intern offers unique benefits:
1. Fresh Perspectives and Enthusiasm
Interns bring the latest research and techniques from their academic programs. Their passion for learning often translates into highly engaged, thoughtful care.
2. Two Minds for the Price of One
Interns work under the close supervision of licensed professionals, meaning your case benefits from the expertise of two therapists.
3. Individualized Attention
With smaller caseloads, interns can dedicate more time to preparing for your sessions and tailoring their approach to your needs.
4. Affordability
Interns often offer services at a reduced rate, making therapy more accessible.
If affordability is a concern, you might also want to learn why Skadi operates as an out-of-network provider. Read more here: Why Skadi Sport Psychology Is an Out-Of-Network Provider—and What That Means For You.
Trust the Process
Every licensed therapist started as an intern. By choosing to work with an intern, you’re not only receiving high-quality care but also contributing to the development of the next generation of compassionate, skilled professionals.
If you’re still unsure about how to find the right professional for your needs, check out our guide: How to Find a Sport Psychologist. It’s packed with tips to help you make an informed decision.
Remember: therapy interns are supported by a system designed to ensure your safety and success. Trust the process—you’re in good hands.
Curious about how therapy or sport psychology can support your goals? Skadi offers 1:1 sessions tailored to athletes and performers. Learn more about our services or schedule a consultation today.
References for further reading ⤵
Castonguay, L. G., & Hill, C. E. (Eds.). (2012). How and why are some therapists better than others? Understanding therapist effects. American Psychological Association.
Chow, D. L., et al. (2015). The role of deliberate practice in the development of highly effective psychotherapists. Psychotherapy, 52(3), 337–345.
Goldberg, S. B., et al. (2016). Do psychotherapists improve with experience and training? A longitudinal analysis of outcomes in a training clinic. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 63(1), 1–11.
Wampold, B. E., & Brown, G. S. (2005). Estimating variability in outcomes attributable to therapists: A naturalistic study of outcomes in managed care. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73(5), 914–923.
